The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has initiated a transformative reform in school education by announcing two board examinations annually for Class 10 students, beginning in the academic session 2025–26. Rooted in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this move aims to make assessments more inclusive, flexible, and less stressful by allowing students to retain their best score from two attempts.
Shifting from Memorisation to Meaningful Learning
This policy marks a philosophical shift from a memory-based evaluation to one that prioritises real learning. Echoing CBSE’s earlier pandemic-era optional board attempts and resembling competitive exam formats, this system accommodates diverse learner needs. It enables students to reflect, plan, and improve, thus turning assessments into a learning opportunity rather than a judgment.
Academic and Emotional Upliftment
From an academic standpoint, the dual-exam model acknowledges different learning curves, providing space for growth and reattempt. It encourages deeper engagement, preparation refinement, and resilience. Emotionally, it reduces fear of failure and performance anxiety. Students are more likely to maintain psychological well-being and develop a positive approach towards academics.
School-Level Administrative Challenges
Despite its merits, the new system brings logistical and operational challenges. Schools must overhaul their academic calendars, teaching schedules, and internal assessments. Teachers may face increased workload due to dual preparation streams, necessitating emotional support training and curriculum management strategies. Conducting two rounds of board exams will also require meticulous planning and coordination with board authorities.
Parental Response: Cautious Optimism
At Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, Bhiwadi, parental response has been largely positive, with many recognising the stress-reducing potential of this reform. Nonetheless, concerns remain about academic year extension, increased coaching costs, and the risk of students taking the first attempt lightly. There is a clear demand for structured communication from CBSE and schools to bridge understanding gaps.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Holistic Education
CBSE’s two-exam initiative is a bold stride towards a more inclusive, flexible, and student-friendly education system. With thoughtful execution and stakeholder collaboration, it can successfully redefine the academic journey, empowering students both academically and emotionally.
