Quick answer
From 2026, CBSE holds Class 10 board exams in two phases. The first, in February, is compulsory for all students. The second, in May, is optional and lets students improve their scores in up to three subjects. Internal assessment happens once. CBSE introduced the change to reduce exam pressure, as NEP 2020 and NCF 2023 recommend.
- First exam (February): compulsory. Second exam (May): optional, for improvement.
- Students can attempt improvement in up to three subjects in the second exam.
- Internal assessment is done once in the year.
- Always confirm dates and rules in the latest CBSE circular.
How does the two board exam system work?
CBSE approved the scheme in 2025, after a public consultation. The main exam takes place in February and the results are declared in April. Students who want to improve their performance can then register for the second exam in May, with results in June. The better score counts. Students can use the second exam to improve in up to three subjects among the main subjects such as science, mathematics, social science, and languages.
Rules for students who miss subjects in the first exam, schools in winter-bound regions, and other special cases are set out in CBSE circulars. Because these details can change, use the CBSE website and CBSE Academic as the source of truth.
Does this replace the CBSE improvement exam?
For Class 10, the optional second exam takes the place of the earlier route of improving scores through the supplementary exam. For Class 12, check the current rules for supplementary and improvement exams in the latest CBSE notices, as the two-exam scheme was introduced for Class 10 first.
What should schools do to prepare?
- Revise the academic calendar. Finish the syllabus and revision before February, and plan teaching support for students taking the May exam while the new session begins.
- Counsel students and parents early. Explain the rules, help students decide whether to attempt improvement, and in which subjects.
- Manage registrations accurately. Track which students register for the second exam and in which subjects, with deadlines.
- Keep results data clean. Store both attempts and the final score per subject for each student, for report cards and records.
- Communicate clearly. Send dates, admit card information, and results updates to parents through one official channel.
Managing exams and results in SchoolOS
The exam management features in Hudace SchoolOS handle exam schedules, marks entry, grading rules, and report cards, and the communication tools send notices and results to parents. Schools can record internal assessment and board results per student and share them through the parent app.
Frequently asked questions
Are CBSE board exams held twice a year from 2026?
Yes, for Class 10. The first exam in February is compulsory and the second in May is optional.
Is the second CBSE board exam compulsory?
No. It is optional and meant for students who want to improve their scores.
How many subjects can be improved in the second exam?
Up to three subjects, as set out by CBSE. Confirm the current rules in the latest circular.
Which score counts if a student takes both exams?
The better score is used.
Does the two exam system apply to Class 12?
The scheme announced in 2025 applies to Class 10. Check CBSE notices for any changes for Class 12.
Why did CBSE introduce two board exams?
To reduce the high stakes of a single exam, in line with NEP 2020 and NCF 2023, which recommend letting students take board exams more than once and keep their best score.