The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a major overhaul in the 2026 board exams, moving away from rote memorisation toward competency-based assessment. This shift aims to test students’ application, analytical, and problem-solving skills, ensuring a deeper understanding of concepts.
Key Changes in CBSE 2026 Board Exams
- Competency-based questions: 50% of the paper will focus on application and analytical skills, rather than purely memorised content.
- Dual board exams for Class 10: Students will have two exam sessions per year, as recommended by NEP 2020, giving them more flexibility and multiple opportunities to demonstrate learning progress.
- Focus on conceptual understanding: The revised pattern evaluates students’ ability to interpret, analyse, and apply information, promoting long-term retention.
2026 Exam Schedule
Class 10:
- Start: February 1, 2026 – Mathematics Standard & Mathematics Basic
- End: March 10, 2026
Class 12:
- Start: February 1, 2026 – Biotechnology, Entrepreneurship, Shorthand (Hindi & English)
- End: April 9, 2026
CBSE’s revamp reflects a growing emphasis on critical thinking and real-world application, aligning with global educational trends and the National Education Policy 2020.
