CBSE Board Exam 2026 Live Updates: Big Changes, OSM, Rules

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to begin the Class 10 and Class 12 Board Examinations 2026 from February 17, 2026, with sweeping reforms aimed at modernising assessment and reducing student stress. Nearly 46 lakh students are expected to appear for the exams at over 8,000 examination centres in India and abroad. This year marks one of the most significant structural transitions in CBSE’s evaluation system.

On-Screen Marking (OSM) Introduced for Class 12

For the first time, CBSE will implement On-Screen Marking (OSM) for Class 12 answer sheets. Under this system:

• Answer scripts will be scanned and digitised.
• Evaluators will assess responses on computers instead of checking physical copies.
• Marks will be recorded digitally, reducing totalling errors and improving transparency.

CBSE has instructed schools to ensure proper infrastructure such as functional computer labs, stable internet connectivity, and power backup to facilitate smooth implementation. However, Class 10 answer sheets will continue to be evaluated through the traditional physical mode for 2026.

Optional Second Board Exam for Class 10

Another major reform is the introduction of an optional second examination window for Class 10 students.

• The first exam attempt (February–March) is mandatory.
• The second attempt (May–June) is optional and meant for score improvement.
• The best score between the two attempts will be reflected in the final marksheet.

This move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to reduce exam-related anxiety.

Revised Exam Schedule

Due to administrative adjustments, some examinations originally scheduled for early March have been rescheduled.

• Class 10 exams will conclude around March 10, 2026.
• Class 12 exams will continue until April 9/10, 2026.

Students are advised to check the official date sheet for subject-wise confirmation.

Paper Structure Changes for Class 10

CBSE has also restructured certain subjects:

• Science and Social Science papers for Class 10 will be more clearly sectioned to enable subject-specific evaluation.
• Greater emphasis has been placed on competency-based questions instead of rote memorisation.

Live Webcast for Schools

To explain the new examination modalities and on-screen marking system, CBSE is conducting a live webcast for principals and examination functionaries. Schools have been directed to attend the session to understand revised guidelines and procedural changes.

Exam Day Guidelines

CBSE has reiterated strict compliance with exam-day protocols:

• Students must carry valid admit cards.
• Electronic devices, including mobile phones and smartwatches, are strictly prohibited.
• Candidates must reach the examination centre well before reporting time.

What This Means for Students

The CBSE Board Exam 2026 represents a shift toward technology-driven evaluation and flexible assessment models. The introduction of OSM and the second-exam option signals a long-term move away from high-pressure, single-attempt systems. Students are advised to treat the first attempt seriously while staying informed about updated rules and schedules through official CBSE notifications.