Maharashtra Board to Reduce SSC, HSC Paper Length From 2026

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• Updated on 19 May, 2026, 9:22 AM, • 7 hours ago by Amrita Das

Maharashtra State Board has announced plans to reduce SSC and HSC question paper length by nearly 60% from the 2026-27 academic session. The move aims to lower printing expenses and simplify paper structure for students.

Maharashtra Board SSC and HSC exams will undergo major changes from the 2026-27 academic session as the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) plans to shorten question papers significantly.

The revised format will reduce the current 10 to 11-page question papers to nearly three or four pages printed on both sides. The board stated that the decision has been taken to lower printing costs and make examination papers easier for students to navigate.

Maharashtra SSC and HSC Exam Paper Pattern Changes 2026

Before implementing the revised structure, the board reviewed the existing examination paper format and printing expenses. According to MSBSHSE Chairperson Trigun Kulkarni, the current format increases both paper usage and complexity during examinations. Under the new arrangement, question papers will become shorter and more structured.

The redesigned papers are expected to:

Display marks more clearly
Arrange questions in a better sequence
Group sub-parts together on the same page
Improve readability during examinations

The board stated that these changes are intended to help students manage question papers more efficiently during the examination process.

Maharashtra Board to Save INR 18 Crore Through New Exam Format

Before introducing the revised paper format, the board assessed annual printing costs associated with SSC and HSC examinations. At present, MSBSHSE reportedly spends nearly INR 30 crore annually on printing examination papers. With the redesigned structure, the board expects to reduce expenses by almost 60%, leading to estimated savings of around INR 18 crore every year. The board also highlighted the environmental benefits of the move, stating that reduced paper usage will support sustainability efforts and decrease overall consumption of printing materials.

Maharashtra Board Plans Stricter Anti-Malpractice Rules

Apart from examination paper reforms, the Maharashtra Board is also working on amendments to the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices Act 1982. Before the proposed amendments, the existing law mainly covered paper leaks and cheating cases. However, the revised framework is expected to include additional offences related to:

Tampering with answer sheets
Irregularities during re-evaluation
Other examination-related malpractices

The board believes stricter provisions will strengthen examination security and discourage fraudulent practices during board examinations. The revised SSC and HSC paper format along with updated anti-malpractice measures are expected to be implemented for examinations conducted from the 2026-27 academic year onwards.

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Ishita Tanwar•19 May, 2026