CBSE announces significant changes in Classes 10 and 12, Syllabus and Exam Structure from 2025-2026 Academic Session
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced significant changes in Classes 10 and 12 syllabus and examination structures effective from the 2025-26 academic session. These changes are designed to promote skill-based learning, increase academic flexibility, and better prepare students for future challenges.
Key Changes for Class 10
- Biannual Board Examinations: Students will have the opportunity to appear for board exams twice annually, in February and April starting from the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative allows students to improve their scores by opting for the higher result of the two attempts.
- Mandatory Skill-Based Subjects: Students are now mandate to choose one out of three skill-based subjects: Computer Applications, Information Technology, or Artificial Intelligence
- Revised Passing Criteria: In a significant change, students who fail in core subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Social Science, or a language can replace the failed subject with a passed skill-based or optional language subject for the final result calculation.
- 9-Point Grading System: The assessment will now use a 9-point grading system, where marks will be converted into grades for a more detailed evaluation of student performance.
Key Changes for Class 12:
- Introduction of New Skill-Based Electives: To align with the growing emphasis on vocational education, CBSE has introduced four new skill-based electives: Land Transportation Associate, Electronics and Hardware, Physical Activity Trainer, Design Thinking and Innovation.
- Revised Grading System: Similar to Class 10, the Class 12 assessment will adopt the 9-point grading system to better reflect student achievements.
- Exam Schedule: The Class 12 board examinations will continue to be held annually, with the 2026 exams schedule to start on February 17.
CBSE has issue a general guideline for schools as well. Schools are instructed to strictly follow the updated curriculum, which emphasizes experiential learning, competency-based assessments, and interdisciplinary teaching approaches to enhance students’ analytical and problem-solving skills.
Schools are also encouraged to adopt flexible and contextual teaching methodologies to cater to diverse learning needs, as recommended by the National Curriculum Framework-2023.
These changes made by CBSE aims to make learning more engaging and student-focused, helping students gain the skills and knowledge they need for real-life challenges and future careers.