CBSE: Only 40% Students Likely to Take Class 10 Second Board in 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is preparing to introduce a revised assessment framework for Class 10 from 2026, allowing students to appear for board exams twice in certain subjects. According to CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh, the Board expects that only a limited number of students will opt for the second attempt.

Speaking at a webinar on the upcoming two-exam model, Singh said internal analysis suggests that a maximum of 40% of students in each major subject may choose the second exam window.

Lower Evaluation Burden in the Second Exam

Singh explained that the second exam is designed to minimise pressure on teachers and evaluators. While the first Class 10 exam involves checking over 1.5 crore answer sheets, the second round is expected to produce only 20–30 lakh sheets.
This significantly reduced volume will help CBSE complete evaluation faster and ensure that the entire exam cycle concludes by June 30.

Under the policy, all Class 10 students must appear for the first exam, after which they can select up to three improvement subjects. Eligible subjects include Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and two language papers.

Rooted in NEP 2020 Principles

The dual-exam model draws from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which recommends lowering the “high-stakes” pressure of board exams by offering multiple opportunities.

CBSE studied alternatives such as a semester system, two term-end exams, and any-time exams, but found each one challenging.

• A semester system reduces externally assessed syllabus and increases teacher pressure.

• Two term-end boards require additional invigilation and evaluation staff.

• “Any-time exams” demand extensive resources and continuous proctoring, potentially increasing stress rather than reducing it.

Why Only Select Subjects Have a Second Attempt

The second exam will be offered only for subjects with over 50% external assessment. Singh stressed that the first exam must remain the main assessment and that the system should not encourage students to split subjects evenly between the two attempts.

Students must appear in at least three subjects in the first exam to qualify for the second. Once the first results are released, registration for the second exam will open, followed by CBSE confirming the list of candidates.