Two Board Exams, Twice The Opportunity: How UAE Schools Are Managing CBSE’s Class 10 Reform

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a significant change in the Class 10 board examination schedule starting from 2026, with the second exam now shifted to May. This move is part of a broader reform introducing biannual board exams, aimed at reducing exam stress and providing students with an opportunity to improve their scores. The announcement has triggered varied reactions from CBSE-affiliated schools in the UAE as they weigh both the potential benefits and challenges of the revised timetable within their unique academic calendars.

 

Key Highlights Of The CBSE Examination Rescheduling

 

Revised Exam Schedule

For Class 10 students, the board exam system will now consist of two exams annually: the first mandatory exam in February and the second optional exam in May. Students can choose to take the second exam to improve scores in up to three subjects, with the better score being retained.

 

Benefits Of The Dual Exam System

CBSE’s new system intends to reduce the pressure of a single high-stakes exam, allowing flexibility and encouraging continuous learning. The shift to May for the second exam also gives students a structured “second chance” especially beneficial for those facing personal or extracurricular challenges during the first exam.

 

Implications For UAE Schools

While schools in India benefit from the summer break coinciding with the May exams, UAE schools face logistical challenges due to the overlap with the ongoing academic year. This includes timetable adjustments, added teaching loads, and the need for extra academic support like weekend or after-school sessions for students appearing in May exams.

 

Navigating Logistical And Academic Challenges

UAE school principals such as Qurat Ul Ain of International Indian School, Ajman, emphasize the operational challenge of coordinating two exam cycles within one academic year. Schools will have to manage exam center logistics carefully as well as support students missing regular classes during the exam days. Regulatory permissions may also be needed to schedule exams on holidays or weekends.

 

Teacher workload is expected to increase substantially with the need for dual evaluations, revaluation processes, and heightened administrative coordination. Continuous communication with parents and students about the new system’s expectations is also critical for smooth implementation.

 

Positive Impact On Student Wellbeing And Performance

According to education leaders like Punit MK Vasu, CEO of The Indian High Group of Schools, Dubai, the biannual exams reflect a progressive, student-centred approach aligned with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The option to improve scores without penalty eases exam-related anxiety, promotes more balanced academic pacing, and supports diverse student aspirations including sports and personal commitments.

 

Dr Thakur S Mulchandani, Principal of Sunrise English Private School, Abu Dhabi, also notes that this reform encourages “year-round learning” and reduces the traditional “high-stakes” exam pressure. The introduction of a nine-point grading system further aids in providing fairer and nuanced student evaluations.

 

Preparing For The Transition: Orientation And Awareness

CBSE has mandated orientation programs to inform parents and students about the two-exam format, emphasizing that internal assessments will occur only once before the first exam in February. UAE schools have begun initiating awareness sessions and distributing circulars to help the school community adjust to the changes.

 

Conclusion

The CBSE’s decision to conduct the second Class 10 board exam in May from 2026 marks a transformative step in India’s education system, particularly impacting overseas schools like those in the UAE. While offering greater flexibility and stress reduction for students, it also presents notable logistical and operational challenges for schools to overcome.

 

Focused academic planning, proactive communication, and robust support systems will be essential for UAE schools to seamlessly implement this dual exam framework while prioritizing student success and wellbeing.

 

Sources: Gulf News, Indian Express, Khaleej Times, Economic Times, CBSE Official Releases.