The CBSE exam system is going through one of its biggest changes in years, and many parents are wondering what this means for their children. At DPS Bopal, we believe that when families understand these updates clearly, students feel more confident and prepared.
So, here’s a simple breakdown of the CBSE Exam Reforms 2026, what’s new, why it’s happening, and how it will help students in the long run.
Two Board Exams a Year for Class 10
From 2026, CBSE will conduct two Class 10 board exams every year. This does not increase pressure; instead, it reduces the fear of one single high-stakes attempt.
- First exam: around February
- Second exam: around May
- Students can decide if they want to take the second exam
- The better score will be counted
CBSE introduced this change as part of NEP 2020’s push for flexibility, reduced stress, and multiple opportunities for students. This gives students a safety net if they fall sick, face anxiety, or simply want to improve their performance.
More Focus on Understanding, Not Memorising
CBSE wants students to think, analyse, and apply learning instead of memorising. Because of this, question papers will now include more competency-based problems.
Around 50 percent of questions will be:
- Competency-based
- Case studies
- Real-life situation questions
- Application-driven MCQs
This shift helps students who understand concepts well during regular classroom learning — not just those who cram before exams.
At DPS Bopal, this aligns with the school’s existing focus on activity-based learning and concept clarity, making the transition smoother. Read more about top CBSE Schools in Ahmedabad with the Best Career Guidance and Counseling Programs.
60 Percent Board Exam + 40 Percent Internal Assessment
Students will now be assessed through:
- 60% board exam marks
- 40% internal assessment marks (projects, practicals, classwork, assignments, activities)
This blended system ensures that consistent effort throughout the year carries significant weight. It also recognises skills like creativity, communication, teamwork, and discipline — areas that a single written exam cannot measure.
CBSE introduced this structure to encourage continuous learning rather than last-minute pressure.
75 Percent Attendance Is Now Compulsory
CBSE has made 75% attendance mandatory to appear for the board exam.
Regular attendance helps students with:
- Better understanding
- Stronger revision
- Continuous assessment
- Frequent feedback
- Confidence in newly introduced competency-based questions
Schools are allowed to consider medical issues or special circumstances, but these must be verified properly.
A New 9-Point Grading System
CBSE will introduce a more detailed 9-point grading scale. The aim is to:
- Reduce unhealthy competition
- Provide a clearer understanding of performance
- Give specific feedback on strengths and areas to improve
This grading pattern is also in line with global evaluation standards.
More Electives and Skill-Based Subjects
CBSE is expanding its range of subjects so students can explore future-ready skills. Options will include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Coding
- Design Thinking
- Financial Literacy
- Vocational and skill-based electives
This helps students discover their interests early and develop practical skills.
At DPS Bopal, subjects like robotics, AI awareness sessions, and innovation labs already support early exposure to such emerging areas.
Flexibility for Sportspersons and Special Circumstances
Students who participate in national/international sports and events often miss classes or exams. Under the new policy:
- If students miss the first board exam due to sports commitments or verified reasons,
- They can appear for the second exam without penalty
This ensures that performance outside academics is valued and respected.
What This Means for DPS Bopal Parents
These reforms are built around student well-being, flexibility and fair assessment. The focus is on minimising stress and promoting continuous learning rather than last-minute pressure.
At DPS Bopal, our approach continues to emphasise:
- Strong conceptual understanding
- Regular assessments
- Balanced preparation
- Support according to each child’s learning pace
- Reduced exam anxiety and confidence-building sessions
The school already integrates life-skills workshops, counselling support, concept clarity sessions, and activity-based learning, which align naturally with the upcoming reform structure.
How Students Can Prepare for the New System
A few simple habits can make the transition easier:
- Maintain good attendance
- Understand concepts instead of memorising
- Complete class tasks and projects sincerely
- Ask questions whenever unsure
- Revise regularly instead of relying on last-minute studying
- Practise competency-based questions from sample papers
These habits build long-term learning and reduce exam-day stress.
Final Thoughts
The CBSE Exam Reforms 2026 may seem like a big change at first, but they are designed to support students, not overwhelm them. The goal is simple: stronger understanding, lower stress, and more opportunities.
At DPS Bopal, we welcome these changes and are fully committed to preparing students and parents well before they come into effect.
FAQs
Will students be required to appear for both board exams every year?
No. Students can choose whether they want to take the second exam. The better score will be used.
How will the 60% board exam + 40% internal assessment system work?
60% will come from the written board exam, while 40% will be based on projects, assignments, activities, and internal assessments conducted throughout the year.
What happens if a student has less than 75% attendance?
Students may not be permitted to sit for the exam unless they have a valid medical or officially approved reason.
How can students start preparing now?
Students should focus on understanding concepts, staying consistent, completing assignments, maintaining attendance, and practising competency-based questions.
Which is the best CBSE school in Ahmedabad, Gujarat?
Many parents consider DPS Bopal among the top CBSE schools in Ahmedabad due to its academic consistency, trained faculty, strong student support systems, and well-rounded learning environment. read here about 10 Reasons DPS Bopal Is Among the Best Schools in Ahmedabad, Gujarat