CBSE Biannual Board Exam Proposal: Experts analyze Implications

While the CBSE is yet to clarify its decision on implementing biannual board exams, Shiksha.com reached out to various school principals, students, and parents to gather their opinions on the proposed change.

CBSE Board Exams Twice A Year! In a bid to alleviate academic pressure and provide students with additional opportunities, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is considering a significant overhaul of its examination schedule. According to media reports, the CBSE may implement a biannual board exam system for Class 12 students starting June 2026. This shift aims to replace the current system of annual exams with two sets of board exams per year, in alignment with the recommendations of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE).

The Proposed Change: Biannual CBSE Board Exams

Under the existing system, Class 12 students take their board exams between February and March, with results typically announced in May. Students who wish to improve their scores in specific subjects can do so by appearing for supplementary exams held in July. The new proposal, however, envisions two sets of board exams annually. The first set would remain in the traditional February-March window, while the second set would be conducted in June. The results of the June exams would be declared in August.

This proposed change is part of a broader movement outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which seeks to shift away from high-stakes examinations and introduce more flexible assessment options. NEP 2020 has also proposed Board Exams Twice a Year which means conduct of CBSE Board Exams Twice for both Class 10, as well as, Class 12.

Expert Opinions on Biannual CBSE Board Exams

While the CBSE is yet to clarify its decision on implementing biannual board exams, Shiksha.com reached out to various school principals, students, and parents to gather their opinions on the proposed change.

Reduced Academic Pressure

“Balancing the benefits of reduced pressure and better preparation against the challenges of increased stress and logistical issues is key to determining the efficacy of the two-board exam system for CBSE Grade 12 students. Splitting the final evaluation into two parts can help alleviate the intense pressure of a single high-stakes exam. Also, students get a chance to gauge their understanding and improve in the second exam based on their performance in the first. However, for some students, facing two major exams can lead to sustained stress and anxiety throughout the academic year, and disparity in performance between the two exams could lead to inconsistencies in final scores, potentially impacting college admissions and scholarship opportunities. Also, coordinating two board exams can be logistically challenging for schools and students, particularly with other entrance exams and activities,” asserts Sangeeta Kapoor, Principal, MRIS Sector 46, Gurugram.

Can Increase Logistical Challenges

Shalini Nambiar, Director Principal, Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Ghaziabad, says, “The proposal to conduct two CBSE 12th board exams could be a significant shift in our education system, impacting students, parents, and educators alike. While this approach may reduce the pressure on students by offering multiple opportunities to perform, it could also present logistical challenges.”

“Implementing two board exams requires significant upgrades to existing infrastructure, such as additional examination centers and enhanced logistical arrangements. This poses a substantial challenge for rural schools, which may struggle with the higher infrastructural costs and administrative burdens. In contrast, urban schools might be better positioned to manage these demands. The increased administrative workload, including scheduling, grading, and result processing, could strain the current examination system and affect resource allocation across different types of schools. Additionally, ensuring the security and integrity of two separate exams, including managing the security of the question papers, adds further complexity and cost,” says Nilakantha Panigrahi, Director Academics & Senior Principal, SAI International School, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Increased Exam Pressure

Nambiar further adds that Biannual exams may increase exam pressure among students. “From an academic perspective, this change might help students who struggle with test anxiety by providing them with a second chance. It could also promote a more continuous learning process rather than last-minute cramming. However, the additional exams might lead to increased stress and longer academic sessions, affecting the overall well-being of students. As educators, we must carefully weigh the benefits of reducing exam pressure against the potential drawbacks of extended academic calendars and increased stress. Our primary goal should be to ensure that any changes in the examination system support the holistic development and well-being of our students,” adds the Director Principal.

Enhanced Learning Opportunities

According to Dr Priya Sharma, a counselor and educational psychologist, the new system could lead to better learning outcomes. “With two opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge, students can focus on mastering the material throughout the year, rather than cramming for one high-stakes exam. This could promote deeper learning and understanding.”

Reduction in Teaching Time, Increase in Work Load

“The introduction of an additional board examination could lead to a reduction in teaching time, as the academic calendar may need to accommodate preparation and examination periods. This could impact the depth and breadth of the curriculum covered. Teachers may face an increased workload with the need to prepare students for two sets of board exams while also being engaged in central evaluation processes. This dual responsibility could lead to burnout and reduced teaching effectiveness, as teachers balance grading with curriculum preparation,” adds Nilakantha Panigrahi.

Parents' Take on CBSE Board Exams Twice A Year

“My son will appear for his CBSE 10th board exams in 2025-26. I personally feel that conducting board exams twice a year can be beneficial for students. Since half of the syllabus shall be covered in the first term exams, it will lessen the burden for the annual examinations. Also, students will have the option to retain the best score. The only problem here is that students will have to study throughout the year for Term 1 and 2 exams which will not leave them time for any other activity and thereby create stress, says Jasleen Kaur Taneja, mother of a Class 10 student.

Subhra Mittal, a mother of a Class 11 Student, says, “It is difficult to say that Biannual Board Exams would lower academic pressure for students. Currently, students are pressurized to utilize their time and give their best only once a year. Board exams twice a year would keep students on their toes. Students would not get time to channelize their energy. It might also confuse many and many would face a lack of preparation time.

As the education community awaits further details, the proposed biannual board exam system represents a significant shift in India’s educational landscape. While it promises to offer more flexibility and reduce pressure on students, it also brings challenges that will need to be addressed to ensure a smooth implementation.

In the coming months, stakeholders including educators, policymakers, and students will need to engage in constructive discussions to refine the proposal and address the concerns that have been raised. The successful implementation of this initiative could redefine the examination landscape in India, making it more adaptable to the needs of students and the evolving educational environment.

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