CBSE: CBSE has totally revamped the format of the 10th and 12th board exams. The goal here is to reduce rote learning by making the question paper lighter. With this new approach, 50% of the questions will focus on proficiency, aiming to evaluate the student’s mental capabilities. The 10th board exam will now take place twice a year. This new system is being rolled out under the National Education Policy (NEP 2020).

CBSE has revamped the board exam format

The new exam structure from CBSE highlights the importance of competency-based knowledge over rote memorization. Starting in 2026, the exams will prioritize applying knowledge and assessing problem-solving skills instead of just recalling memorized facts.

Half of the questions in the board exam will be designed to evaluate students’ efficiency.

The board exam will feature multiple choice questions aimed at assessing proficiency.

Expect case-based questions in the board exam.

There will be questions that require data integration and interpretation based on provided sources.

The exam paper will also include questions related to real-life situational problems.

20% of the questions will be traditional and multiple choice.

30% will consist of short and long answer questions.

10th board exam twice a year.

The purpose of this change by CBSE is to ensure that half of each exam tests conceptual understanding while the other half focuses on knowledge applicable in real life. To make the 10th board exam simpler, CBSE has opted to conduct two board exams each year. Following the NEP 2020 recommendations, CBSE will implement two board exams annually for class 10 students. This move will offer students greater flexibility, allowing them more chances to enhance their performance and showcase their learning outcomes.

CBSE Board Exam Schedule 2026

  • The 10th and 12th board exams are set to kick off on February 1.
  • On the first day of the 10th board exams, students will tackle Standard Mathematics and Basic Mathematics.
  • For the 12th board, there will be exams in Biotechnology, Entrepreneurship, Shorthand, Hindi, and English.
  • The 10th board exams will wrap up on March 10.
  • Meanwhile, the 12th board exams will conclude on April 9.

Trying to ease exam anxiety

CBSE is making changes to the board exam format to help lessen exam stress and evaluate students’ practical knowledge. This means moving away from the old way of just memorizing answers and instead boosting students’ critical thinking and reasoning skills, encouraging them to change their study habits and really dive into understanding the concepts.