CBSE has revamped the Class 10 board exam pattern for 2026, introducing sectional papers in Science and Social Science, competency-based questions, biannual exams, mandatory 75% attendance, and a new 9-point grading system. These reforms aim to reduce rote learning, improve evaluation transparency, and align with the National Education Policy.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced significant changes to the Class 10 board exam pattern for 2026, aiming to make assessments more structured, competency-based, and transparent. These reforms are part of CBSE’s broader effort to align school education with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and reduce rote learning.
Structured Question Papers:
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Science papers will now be divided into three sections: Section A (Biology), Section B (Chemistry), and Section C (Physics).
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Social Science papers will be split into four sections: Section A (History), Section B (Geography), Section C (Political Science), and Section D (Economics).
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Students must write answers strictly within the designated sections; mixed responses will not be evaluated.
Competency-Based Focus: A larger share of questions will test application, analysis, and problem-solving skills, moving away from memory-based evaluation.
Two Board Exams: CBSE will conduct two exam sessions annually (biannual boards), giving students a second chance to improve performance without waiting an entire year.
Attendance Requirement: Students must maintain at least 75% attendance in Classes 9 and 10 to be eligible for board exams.
New Grading System: From 2026, CBSE will introduce a 9-point grading scale, replacing the current system, to ensure fairer evaluation.
Provisional Admission: Class 11 admissions will be granted provisionally based on the first exam session results, reducing delays for students.
Broader Context
These changes reflect CBSE’s biggest reset in recent years, designed to improve exam quality and align with global education standards. By restructuring papers into clear sections, CBSE aims to streamline evaluation and minimize errors during marking. The emphasis on competency-based questions supports NEP’s vision of nurturing critical thinking and creativity.
Education experts believe the biannual exam system will reduce stress, as students can reattempt exams within the same academic year. However, schools and parents have raised concerns about logistical challenges and the need for robust digital infrastructure to support hybrid learning and evaluation.
Risks:
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Students may face initial confusion adapting to sectional papers.
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Increased exam frequency could add pressure on schools and teachers.
Opportunities:
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Greater flexibility for students to improve grades.
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A fairer grading system and competency-based evaluation will better prepare students for higher education and careers.
The CBSE Class 10 exam reforms for 2026 mark a transformative step in India’s education system, balancing tradition with innovation. Students are advised to carefully study the new guidelines and practice with updated model papers to adapt smoothly.
Sources: Jagran Josh, NDTV Education, Times of India, India Today, CBSE Official Circular PDF
