Image Source: X/ CBSE HQ
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released updated guidelines for registration and eligibility for the 2026 Class 10 and Class 12 board exams. The new rules make attendance, internal assessments, and a two-year study programme mandatory for all subjects.
CBSE has instructed all affiliated schools to register students from Classes 9 and 11 for the 2025-26 academic session via the Pariksha Sangam portal. This registration is crucial for eligibility in the board exams. Schools must ensure that only bonafide students are registered, with accurate details including name, date of birth, and subjects. Parents should be informed to verify these details and request corrections if necessary.
The board has clarified that both Class 10 and Class 12 exams will now be treated as two-year programmes. This means that Classes 9 and 10 together form the complete curriculum for Class 10 exams, while Classes 11 and 12 form the foundation for Class 12. Students cannot skip foundational classes or join late, as any subject taken in the board exam must have been studied continuously for two years.
CBSE has mandated that students maintain at least 75% attendance to be eligible for board exams. Schools are required to maintain strict daily attendance records. Relaxation of up to 25% will be allowed only in exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies, bereavement, or participation in national-level sports or cultural events and only with proper documentation. Students with inadequate attendance and no valid justification will not be permitted to appear in exams.
In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, internal assessment is now a non-negotiable part of evaluation. These assessments will be conducted continuously over two years and include periodic tests, projects, and classroom participation. Students with irregular attendance risk missing these evaluations. Without proper internal assessment records, CBSE will not release results, and such students will be placed in the “Essential Repeat” category, even if they attempt theory papers.
Stricter rules have been introduced for students opting for additional subjects. Class 10 students can take a maximum of two additional subjects beyond the compulsory five, while Class 12 students may take only one extra subject. These subjects must also be studied over a continuous two-year period. Schools must obtain CBSE approval before offering any additional subjects. Students will not be allowed to register for subjects in schools lacking qualified teachers, labs, or formal CBSE permission.
CBSE has clarified rules for repeat candidates. Students who previously opted for additional subjects but were placed in the Compartment or Essential Repeat categories may reappear as private candidates. However, students who have not completed the mandatory two-year study or attendance requirements will not be allowed to take additional subjects as private candidates.
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