CBSE approves twice a year board exams for Class 10th from next year

In a significant step toward easing academic pressure and promoting deeper learning, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially approved the introduction of board exams twice a year for Class 10 students starting from the next academic session at CBSE schools in Gurgaon. This move aligns with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and is designed to offer students greater flexibility and multiple opportunities to perform better.

What’s New?

Beginning next year, Class 10 students of schools in Gurgaon and all over India under CBSE will have the option to appear for board exams twice annually. The idea behind this shift is to reduce the one-time high-stakes pressure associated with a single board exam and give students a fair chance to improve their scores. Students can choose to appear for both exams, with the best score being considered final.

This system is expected to encourage continuous learning and discourage last-minute cramming, which often leads to stress and burnout.

The Thought Behind the Policy

CBSE's decision is rooted in a student-centric approach. The twice-a-year exam format:

• Offers two chances, allowing students to learn from their mistakes.

• Encourages more consistent study habits throughout the year.

• Promotes holistic and in-depth understanding instead of rote learning.

• Aligns with global best practices in education systems.

What About Schools?

While the policy will be applicable starting the next session, its implementation may vary from school to school based on preparation and readiness. Some of the best schools in Gurgaon will need to adapt their academic calendars, teaching methodologies and internal assessments to accommodate this shift effectively.

Words from our Senior Branch Principal, Ms. Archana Pandey

The decision to make the first board exam compulsory while offering a second attempt as optional strikes a balanced and thoughtful approach to academic evaluation. It ensures that every student completes their academic year with a formal assessment, while also providing a second chance for those who aim to improve.This system could serve as a motivational tool, encouraging students to prepare seriously for the first exam while also knowing that one setback won't define their academic future. It promotes resilience and self-improvement, two qualities essential in today’s fast-evolving world.Importantly, it helps normalize failure and recovery. Students often feel crushed by poor results due to the one-chance format. With this change, failure is no longer final, it’s just a temporary setback.Hence, if executed with care and fairness, CBSE’s two-exam policy could become a transformational shift, one that puts student well-being, learning progress, and long-term success at the centre of India’s education system.

As one of the best CBSE schools in Gurgaon, at The Vivekananda School, we remain committed to nurturing academic excellence while always prioritizing the emotional and intellectual growth of our students. We believe that with the right support, guidance, and preparation, any change, no matter how significant, can become an opportunity for growth.