Mandatory to appear in first board exam for Class 10 students: CBSE on two board exams policy
CBSE is starting with two board exams for Class 10 from 2026
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it clear that Class 10 students must appear in the first board exam under the new two-exam policy. This rule applies to the 2025-26 academic session and is important for every student and parent to understand.
What is the Two-Board Exam Policy?
Under this new system, CBSE will conduct board exams for Class 10 students twice in a year. The first exam happens at the end of the academic session, and the second exam is held a few months later. The idea behind this policy is to reduce pressure on students by giving them a second chance to improve their scores if they are not happy with the first result.
What CBSE Has Clarified
CBSE has clarified that appearing in the first board exam is not optional. It is mandatory. Students who do not attempt at least three subjects in the first exam will be placed in the "essential repeat" category. This means they will have to repeat the entire year, which is a serious consequence.
The board made this clarification after receiving requests from some schools and parents saying that certain students would not be able to appear in the first exam due to personal or health reasons, and asking if they could directly appear in the second exam instead. CBSE has clearly said this is not allowed.
Why This Rule Matters
This policy ensures that students take their studies seriously throughout the year and do not rely entirely on the second exam as a backup. At the same time, students who appear in both exams will have their best score considered for the final result, which works in their favour.
What Students Should Do
If a student has a genuine medical or personal emergency that prevents them from appearing in the first exam, the school must communicate this to CBSE with proper documentation. The board will handle such cases individually.
For all other students, the advice is simple: prepare well and appear in the first exam. Use the second exam as an opportunity to improve, not as your only attempt. Starting your preparation early and staying consistent with your studies is the best way to do well in both exams.
The two-exam system is designed to support students, not add pressure. Understanding the rules clearly helps you make the most of this opportunity.