CBSE Class 10 second board exam 2026 only for subjects with 50% external assessment; officials clarify FAQs

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) conducted a webinar today, November 20, to clarify doubts on the two-exam structure for the CBSE Class 10 board exam 2026. The session included CBSE officials, school heads, principals, and teachers from across India and outlined the operational framework, timelines, and responsibilities for schools. CBSE reiterated that both CBSE Class 10 exams belong to the same academic year and follow identical standards.

The first Class 10 exam will serve as the main exam, while the second CBSE board exam will be available as an improvement attempt only for subjects with external assessment components exceeding 50 marks. Schools were also instructed to strictly follow practical exam schedules and upload marks within designated timelines.

During the webinar, CBSE further addressed queries from school heads on timetable feasibility, exam logistics and availability of trained staff. The session covered the operational framework that schools will be required to follow once the revised assessment model is implemented. Below is a detailed FAQ-style guide based on the CBSE webinar.

Who can write the CBSE Class 10 second board exam 2026?

The CBSE Class 10 second board exam is optional and only for students who wish to improve their scores in eligible subjects. Students should have appeared in the first CBSE Class 10 board exam to be eligible for the second exam. The board states that the absenteeism in the first exam will be treated seriously.

Which subjects are eligible for the second examination?

Only students who wish to improve their scores in eligible subjects can appear for the CBSE Class 10 second exam. They can choose subjects with external assessment marks exceeding 50, while those with 50 marks or below in external assessment will not be eligible.

How will schools manage attendance and internal assessments?

Schools should maintain accurate attendance records and inform parents regularly. Internal assessment for sports students should be rescheduled within the practical exam window, accounting for travel and event participation.

Why is CBSE conducting two board examinations?

The CBSE two-exam system allows one main exam and an optional second attempt for improvement, providing students with a chance to enhance performance without altering the academic year structure. Both exams follow the same academic standards.

When will Class 12 summer-bound practicals be held and what are schools required to do?

CBSE Class 12 practical exam for summer-bound schools will be conducted from January 1 to February 14, 2026. Schools will have to conduct all practicals and upload marks within this period. No requests for extensions will be accepted, and completion within the scheduled window is mandatory to ensure timely evaluation and result declaration.

When should CBSE Class 10 internal assessments be completed?

CBSE Class 10 internal assessments should be completed between January 1 and February 14, 2026. Schools are required to finish all evaluations and ensure marks are recorded within this period to maintain the exam schedule and support timely result processing.

When should all internal assessment awards for CBSE Class 10, 12 be uploaded?

All awards for CBSE Class 10 and Class 12 internal assessments should be uploaded between January 1 and February 14, 2026. Schools are required to complete this process within the scheduled period to ensure accurate record-keeping and timely result declaration.

What should schools ensure while uploading internal assessment marks for CBSE Class 10, 12?

Schools will have to ensure that the correct marks are uploaded for all Class 10 and CBSE Class 12 internal assessments. Accurate entry is mandatory to maintain the integrity of the evaluation and to prevent errors in result preparation and declaration.

When will the LOC for the CBSE second exam be released?

CBSE will issue the LOC for the second Class 10 board exam once the results of the first CBSE Class 10 exam are declared. Schools will have a 15-day window to verify, update, and submit candidate details. The board has clarified that no extensions will be granted, making timely submission mandatory to initiate the second exam process.

What are the key numbers involved in the examinations?

• Total students (Class 10 and 12): 59 lakh
• Examination centres: 8,000+
• Question papers: 7,000
• Total answer books evaluated: 3.38 crore
• Examination duration: 67 days
• Expected answer books for second exam: 20–30 lakh

How can stakeholders clarify doubts or queries?

CBSE has created a dedicated communication channel. Stakeholders can send queries to the WhatsApp number 79066 27715 or via email at info.exam@cbse.nic.in. The board will use these queries to expand FAQs and guidance for the two-board-exam policy.

The CBSE Class 10 exams 2026 will be held from February 17 to March 10, 2026, while the CBSE Class 12 exams 2026 are scheduled from February 17 to April 9, 2026. Exams will be conducted from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM.