Principals share mixed views on CBSE's two-phase exam plan for Class 10
The move is in line with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which suggests providing students with multiple opportunities to reduce exam-related pressure.
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Time of India
18 minutes ago
- Time of India
CBSE's biannual exam plan for Class 10 faces backlash: Educators raise concerns over stress and workload
CBSE's biannual exams for Class 10 face criticism from educators. (AI Image) NEW DELHI: In a transformative move, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the introduction of biannual Class 10 board exams, starting in 2026. Aimed at reducing student stress and providing multiple opportunities for improvement, the new system will require all students to sit for the first phase of exams, with the second phase optional for those wishing to improve their scores. The best score from either phase will be considered for the final result. This change is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes a student-centered approach to learning and aims to alleviate the pressure of high-stakes testing. However, this shift has sparked strong reactions from educators. While some see potential benefits in the increased flexibility, the majority of principals have raised concerns about the policy's impact on academic calendars, teacher workload, and student well-being. Many fear the new exam system will exacerbate stress rather than reduce it, with extended exam periods leading to burnout for both students and teachers. Others question the practicalities of implementing such a system in schools with already tight schedules. Concerns over academic calendar and teacher workload Several school leaders have expressed concerns about how the biannual exam system will interfere with the smooth functioning of schools. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Investire è più facile che mai BG SAXO Scopri di più Undo Ms. Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL School in Dwarka, warned that the extended exam period, from February to June, would leave little room for regular teaching. "From mid-February to June, teachers will be engaged in conducting exams and grading, which will compromise the time available for regular classes," she explained. "This will impact not just board exam preparation but the teaching of other classes as well." Read Also: CBSE Introduces Biannual Class 10 Board Exams from 2026, Retaining Best Score The new system also poses logistical challenges for schools. Teachers, who already juggle multiple responsibilities, will face increased pressure. "Teachers involved in exam duties also teach classes from VI to VIII," Ms. Acharya pointed out. "This will make it difficult to begin the academic session in April, and may even affect the quality of teaching in lower grades." Ms. Asha Prabhakar, Principal of Bal Bharti Public School, NOIDA, echoed similar concerns, stressing that the compressed academic calendar, which already has limited working days, will be further strained by the new policy. "With only around 210 working days in a year, introducing two board exams will make it even more difficult to maintain a balanced academic schedule," she said. "The emphasis on exam duties will leave little time for teaching, and this could lower learning standards for other classes. " Increased stress and potential for burnout While the policy is meant to reduce stress, many educators worry that it could lead to even greater anxiety for both students and teachers. Ms. Aparna Erry, Principal of DAV Public School, Gurugram, pointed out that two board exams in one year would extend the stress period from February to May, leaving little room for relaxation or skill development. "Instead of reducing pressure, students will feel the weight of constant exam preparation," she said. "This prolonged stress could lead to burnout and diminish their overall well-being." Read Also: How the New CBSE Class 10 Board Exam System Will Work Starting 2026 Teachers, too, are likely to bear the brunt of the increased workload. Ms. Rashmi Malik, Principal of Salwan Public School, Gurugram, expressed concern over the extra responsibilities teachers would face, noting that the dual exam system would require them to prepare students for multiple rounds of testing, as well as manage the evaluation process. "This added workload will put significant stress on teachers, who are already stretched thin," she said. Financial and emotional burden on families The financial implications of the new system are another point of contention. Many principals believe that the two-exam system could place unnecessary strain on families. Dr. Anupama Mishra, Principal of Sunbeam School Varuna, Varanasi, pointed out that the cost of registering for two rounds of exams, along with other associated expenses like coaching or materials, could be a burden for many families. "The repeated costs of exam forms, stationery, and travel to exam centers could lead to financial strain," she said. Additionally, the emotional toll on both students and their families could be significant. "Parents will face additional pressure to ensure their children perform well in both rounds, and this could add to the overall stress," Dr. Mishra noted. Solutions and suggestions While many educators remain critical of the biannual exam policy, some have suggested alternatives that could better balance flexibility with meaningful assessment. Ms. Malik of Salwan Public School proposed a shift toward online Class 10 exams, which would allow students to take exams anytime after September, with multiple chances to improve scores. "Rather than two board exams, we could focus on internal assessments for students who don't need the board certification," she suggested. Ms. Prabhakar of Bal Bharti Public School also recommended that CBSE reconsider its approach, emphasizing that the goal should be to maintain high educational standards while minimizing stress. "The priority should be on providing a balanced education, rather than focusing solely on exam results," she said. A call for balanced reforms While the CBSE's decision to introduce biannual Class 10 exams is an attempt to reduce stress and offer more opportunities for students, the overwhelming feedback from educators suggests that careful reconsideration is needed. The concerns over teacher workload, academic calendars, and the mental health of students and teachers highlight the need for a more balanced approach to assessment. As the policy moves forward, it will be crucial for CBSE to engage with educators to find a solution that truly supports both academic excellence and student well-being. Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
Mint
5 hours ago
- Mint
CBSE board exams now twice a year: Is May attempt mandatory? Who can appear? Key FAQs answered
Worried about getting low marks in the Board exams? Don't worry—CBSE has introduced a helpful option. Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Class 10 students will now be required to take their board exams in February, but if they're not satisfied with their scores, they'll have the chance to retake the exam in May, the CBSE announced on Wednesday. Explaining the rationale behind making the first phase mandatory for the students, CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh said it is being done to ensure that students take the exams seriously and the sanctity of the board exams is maintained. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the norms for conducting board exams twice a year for Class 10, a move recommended in the new National Education Policy (NEP). "The first phase will be conducted in February and the second in May. The results for the two phases will be announced in April and June, respectively,' CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj said. Yes. All Class 10 students must appear for the board exams in February as the primary attempt. Explaining the rationale behind making the first phase mandatory for the students, CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh said it is being done to ensure that students take the exams seriously and the sanctity of the board exams is maintained, as reported by PTI. No, the May exam is not mandatory. The second phase, scheduled in May, will be optional for students who wish to improve their performance. In case a student appears for both phases, the best score of the two will be retained. "If a student does not appear for three or more subjects in the first examination, he or she will not be allowed to appear for the second exam. Such students will be placed in the 'Essential Repeat' category and can take the examination only next year in the main exam in February," CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh said. 'Students whose results in the first examination are compartment will be allowed to appear in the second examination under the compartment category. Additional subjects will not be permitted after passing Class-10, students will not be allowed in stand-alone subjects,' he added. Students can choose to improve their scores in up to three subjects from the following: It is to be noted that sports students will be allowed to appear in the second phase in subjects which coincide with their sports events. Both examinations will be conducted on the full syllabus meant for the year and the scheme of studies and scheme of examinations will remain the same. Internal assessment, however, will be conducted just once, before the main examination. No. This policy is currently only for Class 10 students. It does not apply to Class 12 board exams. Only the higher score obtained in a subject—whether from the February or the May attempt—will be recorded in the final marksheet, as per CBSE policy. The lower score will be disregarded. If a student does not appear for three or more subjects in the first examination, he or she will not be allowed to appear for the second exam. In the new setup, the second phase of exams will be conducted in May, and the results will be declared in June. Also, students can attempt to improve their scores in three subjects instead of two, CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj said.
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
10 effective tips to begin preparing for the 2026 CBSE biannual exams
CBSE Biannual exam The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is ushering in a landmark change in the way Class 10 board examinations will be conducted, starting 2026. In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, students will now appear for the board exams twice a year, once in February (main) and again in May (optional improvement). While the first attempt will be mandatory, the second will serve as a safety net for those seeking better scores or who couldn't perform optimally the first time. Students will retain the best score out of the two attempts. This is not merely an administrative reform; it signals a paradigm shift in how academic preparedness, stress, and performance are perceived. No longer bound to a 'single-shot' high-stakes examination, students are now afforded the flexibility to improve without fear of penalty. But this freedom also demands strategy. With two exam windows and no change in syllabus, students must now plan more efficiently, balancing internal assessments, full syllabus coverage, and mental resilience. Below are 10 effective tips to help students navigate the new structure with clarity and confidence. Treat the first attempt as the final one Though the second exam offers a chance to improve, students must not fall into the trap of complacency. Prepare for the February exam as if it's the only one. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Learn How To Write Faster for Work (Find Out Now) Grammarly Learn More Undo This ensures serious engagement and avoids a stressful crunch before the May window. Build a year-long study calendar The biannual model calls for long-term planning. Break down the academic year into three phases: Phase 1 (April–October) : Foundation building and conceptual clarity Phase 2 (November–January) : Intense revision, mock tests, and exam drills Phase 3 (March–May) : Focused improvement for second attempt (if required) Use digital calendars or planners to track subjects, syllabus completion, and mock exam schedules. Leverage internal assessment early Internal assessments will be conducted only once—prior to the first exam. Use this phase to score well and reduce pressure from the board exam component. Prioritise projects, practicals, and school evaluations with the seriousness they deserve. Simulate exam conditions at home With both phases covering the entire syllabus, your retention must be robust. Begin taking full-length timed mock papers by December. Simulating the exam environment builds stamina, reduces anxiety, and sharpens time management. Identify and catalogue weak areas After the February exam, analyse your performance even before results are out. Which chapters caused stress? What topics did you skip under pressure? Maintain a 'second chance file' to track mistakes and create a targeted plan for the May exam, if needed. Use the gap for strategic correction, not repetition If you plan to attempt the May improvement exam, do not redo everything. Focus on the two or three subjects where you seek to improve. Employ micro-revision techniques, solve past papers, and work on the specific question types that caused trouble earlier. Maintain academic consistency post-exam Since provisional Class XI admissions will be based on the February results, many students might slack off after the first exam. Avoid this. The May exam can impact final certificates and subject eligibility in senior secondary classes. Continue light review sessions even if you're not attempting the second exam. Mind the mental health curve Having two exam windows can feel like a never-ending loop. Build mental wellness into your routine—short breaks, tech-free hours, regular sleep, and peer discussions. View the new structure as a chance to grow, not a burden to bear. Seek clarity on special provisions (If applicable) Winter-bound school students, sportspersons with overlapping events, and Children With Special Needs (CWSN) should proactively engage with their school authorities to determine their eligibility and optimal exam window. This can affect planning significantly. Stay updated and stay connected Policy changes evolve. Keep an eye on CBSE circulars, school notices, and verified education portals. Discuss the changes in school forums or online student groups. An informed student is a confident student. Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
