The CBSE Class 10 board exams are a crucial milestone for Indian students. Recent changes, including twice-a-year exams from 2026, promise more flexibility and opportunity for improvement.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exams: What’s New and What You Need to Know
The CBSE Class 10 board exams are among the most important academic assessments for Indian students, shaping future educational and career paths. With recent policy updates and the introduction of semester-based exams from 2026, students and parents must stay informed about the latest developments. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Class 10 examination process, including key dates, exam patterns, and preparation strategies.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exams: Key Dates and Schedule
For the 2024–25 academic year, the Class 10 board exams will be conducted as a single annual event. The exams are scheduled to begin on 15 February 2025 and will conclude by 18 March 2025. Here are some of the important subject-wise dates:
- English: 15 February 2025
- Science: 20 February 2025
- Social Science: 25 February 2025
- Hindi: 28 February 2025
- Mathematics: 10 March 2025
All exams are typically held from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at designated CBSE-affiliated schools across India. The official CBSE date sheet is available on the CBSE website.
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CBSE Class 10 Board Exam Pattern and Internal Assessment
The CBSE Class 10 board exam pattern has evolved to focus more on competency-based learning and practical application. The current pattern includes:
- Theory Exams: Cover the entire syllabus, with a mix of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short-answer, and long-answer questions.
- Internal Assessment: Comprises periodic tests, notebook submission, and subject enrichment activities.
- Practical Exams: Conducted for subjects with practical components, usually between November and December.
To pass, students must secure at least 33% marks in both theory and practical/internal assessment components.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exams: Twice-a-Year from 2026
Starting in the 2026–27 academic session, the CBSE Class 10 board exams will be held twice a year. This significant change is in line with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Key Features of the New System:
- First Exam Phase: Mandatory for all students, conducted in February.
- Second Exam Phase: Optional for students who wish to improve their scores, held in May.
- Results: First phase results in April, second phase in June.
- Subject Improvement: Students can improve their performance in up to three subjects (Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and Languages).
- Winter-bound Schools: Students from these schools can choose to appear in either phase.
The internal assessment will be conducted only once per academic session.
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CBSE Class 10 Board Exams and NEP 2020
The NEP 2020 aims to reduce the stress associated with board exams and encourage holistic development. Key recommendations include:
- Redesigning Board Exams: To promote critical thinking and real-life application of knowledge.
- Flexible Subject Choice: Allowing students to choose subjects based on their interests.
- Reduced Coaching Dependence: Eliminating the need for coaching classes by making exams more application-based.
- Multiple Attempts: Students can take the CBSE Class 10 board exams up to two times in a school year to improve their scores.
These changes are intended to make the assessment process more student-friendly and less stressful.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exam Preparation: Tips and Resources
Preparing for the CBSE Class 10 board exams requires a strategic approach. Here are some useful tips:
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarise yourself with the latest CBSE Class 10 exam pattern and marking scheme.
- Focus on Competency-Based Questions: Practice questions that test your understanding and application of concepts.
- Use Official Resources: Refer to the official CBSE Class 10 syllabus and sample papers available on the CBSE website.
- Create a Study Plan: Allocate time for each subject, focusing on weak areas.
- Revise Regularly: Make notes and revise important topics frequently.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solve past question papers to understand the exam format and time management.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exams: Important Guidelines for Students
- Admit Card: Download your admit card from the CBSE portal and carry it to the exam centre.
- Exam Day Instructions: Reach the exam centre at least 30 minutes before the start time.
- Allowed Items: Bring only permitted stationery and avoid carrying any electronic devices.
- COVID-19 Guidelines: Follow any health and safety protocols in place at your exam centre.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exams: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the CBSE Class 10 board exams be held in 2025?
The CBSE Class 10 board exams for 2025 will be held from 15 February to 18 March 2025.
2. What is the new exam pattern for CBSE Class 10?
The exam pattern includes more MCQs and competency-based questions, with internal assessment and practical exams for relevant subjects.
3. How many times will the CBSE Class 10 board exams be held from 2026?
From 2026, the CBSE Class 10 board exams will be held twice a year—once in February (mandatory) and once in May (optional).
4. What is the passing criteria for CBSE Class 10?
Students must secure at least 33% marks in both theory and practical/internal assessment to pass.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exams: Comparison Table (Current vs. 2026 System)
| Feature | Current System (2025) | New System (2026 Onwards) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Frequency | Once a year | Twice a year |
| First Exam | February | February (Mandatory) |
| Second Exam | – | May (Optional) |
| Results | Once a year | Twice a year (April & June) |
| Subject Improvement | Not applicable | Up to 3 subjects |
| Internal Assessment | Once a year | Once a year |
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