CBSE double boards: Class 10 exams to be held in February, May, says report | How it helps students

The CBSE is planning to conduct two Class X Board exams annually, likely in February and May, giving students the flexibility to choose their preferred schedule, as reported by the Times of India.

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As reported by the Times of India, the board is finalising this plan to be implemented starting in 2026.

The draft will be made available for public feedback on Monday. The proposal also includes giving candidates the option to appear for both exams and select the subjects they wish to take, the TOI report said.

Mint could not independently verify the development.

The first exam will be held in February, followed by the second in May, ensuring that the entire process is completed by June to align with undergraduate admission timelines, said the report.

However, TOI reported citing officials that exams are unlikely to start before February to allow for syllabus completion and to minimize disruptions caused by winter, fog, and the implementation of GRAP at various locations.

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The certificate will display the highest score achieved in either of the two exams. Additionally, the exam schedule is expected to be more condensed, with shorter intervals between exams.

How will it help students?

Introduction of the flexible system: This new flexible exam format will be rolled out in the 2026-27 academic year, with the first Class X cohort taking exams under this system in 2028, as reported by TOI.

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Streamlined exam schedule: The exam timeline will be more efficient, with shorter intervals between exams, including minimal or no breaks, to expedite the process and reduce wait times.

Flexible exam options: Students will have the opportunity to choose between appearing for one or both exams and selecting specific subjects for each attempt.

Highest score guaranteed: The final certificate will reflect the best score achieved from either of the two exams, ensuring students are recognised for their highest performance, said the TOI report.

Multiple difficulty levels: Starting in the 2026-27 academic session, subjects like Maths and Science will be available in both basic and standard difficulty levels, catering to a wider range of student abilities.