The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has issued an official clarification regarding the Semester 4 exam pattern for Higher Secondary (HS) students. The Council has introduced a 2x alternatives formula, ensuring that students get double the number of optional questions from each topic.
This change is part of the ongoing reforms under the semester-based system for Classes 11 and 12, which began earlier this year. The HS Semester 4 exams 2026 are scheduled to take place from February 12 to 27, 2026.
WBCHSE HS Semester 4 Question Pattern Clarification
The Council stated that the 2x alternatives formula is designed to make the question paper pattern more transparent and student-friendly. The rule applies to both short-answer (Type 1 & Type 2) and descriptive-type questions, offering students a wider range of options.
For example, subjects such as Learning & Learning Mechanism, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Educational Technology, and Statistics in Education will follow this pattern. Students will now have twice the number of questions to choose from within each unit or topic.
The WBCHSE also mentioned that detailed subject-wise question patterns will soon be released to help students prepare more effectively.
2x Alternatives Formula Explained
The 2x formula means that if students are required to attempt ‘x’ number of questions from a unit, the paper will provide 2x options for the same.This structure ensures that every student can select questions according to their comfort level and understanding of the topic.
For instance, if a student must answer two short-answer questions from a unit, they will be given four alternative questions to choose from.
Semester System Implementation in West Bengal Schools
The semester system was rolled out by WBCHSE in April 2025 for both Class 11 and Class 12 students in state-run and state-aided schools. The 10+2 curriculum has been divided into four semesters — Semesters 1 and 2 for Class 11, and Semesters 3 and 4 for Class 12.
The Semester 3 exams were conducted from September 8 to 22, 2025, while the Semester 4 exams will be conducted between February 12 and 27, 2026.
Objective Behind the Revised Format
According to WBCHSE, the introduction of the 2x alternatives formula aims to make the evaluation process more balanced and systematic. The Council expects this structure to reduce confusion among students and ensure a uniform assessment pattern across all subjects.
