The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has cancelled the Class 12 board examinations scheduled in several Middle East countries following escalating security concerns in the region. The decision was announced through an official circular issued on 15 March 2026. The cancellation applies to exams that were scheduled between 16 March 2026 and 10 April 2026 for students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools across the affected countries. The board stated that the safety and well-being of students remains the top priority amid the ongoing conflict.
Middle East Countries Affected by CBSE Exam Cancellation
The board has confirmed that the exam cancellation applies to students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools in several Gulf and West Asian countries. The affected countries include:
- Bahrain
- Iran
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Thousands of Indian students studying in these regions were scheduled to appear for the CBSE Class 12 board exams this year.
Reason Behind the Cancellation of CBSE Class 12 Exams
The decision was taken after reviewing the rapidly escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has raised serious security concerns in several countries. Recent developments in the Iran–US–Israel conflict have led to missile interceptions, drone attacks, and increased military activity across parts of the region, disrupting normal life and public services. Given the uncertain situation, CBSE decided to cancel the remaining examinations to avoid risk and reduce stress among students and parents.
What Will Happen to the Results of Affected Students?
CBSE has clarified that the evaluation method for affected Class 12 students will be announced separately. The board is expected to introduce a special assessment scheme or alternative evaluation process to declare results for students who could not appear for the exams due to the cancellation. Students and schools in the affected countries have been advised to regularly check the official CBSE website for updates regarding the result declaration process and evaluation criteria.