CBSE Introduces Mandatory First Class 10 Board Exam in 2026

Feb 16, 2026

60 min

Feb 16, 2026 12:30

CBSE makes the first Class 10 board exam compulsory

## New Exam Structure

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a significant change in its examination system for Class 10 students, starting in 2026. Students will now be required to take two board exams, with the first exam being compulsory.

## Compulsory First Exam

Under the new rules, all Class 10 students must appear for the first board exam. Those who fail to take at least three subjects in this initial exam will be categorized as "Essential Repeat" and will not be eligible for the second exam. Instead, they will have to retake the main board exams the following year.

## Second Exam Opportunity

Students who pass the first exam will have the chance to improve their scores in up to three subjects during the second exam. These subjects include Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and languages.

## Restrictions on Subject Choices

CBSE has also clarified that students will not be allowed to take additional subjects after passing Class 10. Requests for exemptions from these new policies will not be considered.

## Upcoming Exams

The board exams for Classes 10 and 12 are scheduled to begin on Tuesday, with over 46 lakh students participating from India and abroad.

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