CBSE Board Exam 2026: New Eligibility Rules Students Must Know

CBSE Board Exam 2026 - In a significant move by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) which aimed at strengthening academic discipline and aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, has issued a public notice outlining stricter eligibility criteria for students appearing in Classes 10 and 12 board examinations.

According to the notification released, the board has reinforced key academic and attendance requirements, underlining that board classes are not separate years but structured as two-year programmes. The message clearly showcases that students must be fully committed to their academic journey across both years if they wish to take the board exams.

Two-Year Study Requirement: A Structured Pathway

CBSE has clarified that both Class 10 and Class 12 are considered two-year academic programmes. This means students must have studied continuously in these classes for a minimum of two years to be eligible to appear for their final board exams. This move discourages short-term academic planning and emphasizes continuity in learning.

Check - CBSE Class 10 Half Yearly Sample Paper 2025 

Minimum 75% Attendence Criteria

One of the most notable takeaways from the notice is the reassertion of the minimum 75% attendance rule. The Board stated that attendance is not merely a formality but an essential component of eligibility. Students falling short of this mark will not be permitted to appear for board examinations, regardless of their academic performance.

This attendance clause has been enforced in past years, but the latest notice gives it renewed emphasis, likely in response to declining classroom presence post-COVID.

Internal Assessment: No Participation, No Result

In line with the NEP 2020, CBSE now requires compulsory participation in internal assessments. This applies to all students, irrespective of their regular status. The Board has made it clear that students who skip internal assessments will not have their results declared. Instead, they will be placed in the “Essential Repeat” category, meaning they will have to repeat the academic year. This policy aims to ensure that continuous assessment, a pillar of NEP 2020, is taken seriously and implemented effectively.

Rules for Additional Subjects: Flexibility with Conditions

CBSE is also providing students some flexibility when it comes to subject selection—but within defined limits.

• Class 10 students are allowed to choose two additional subjects apart from the mandatory five.
  

• Class 12 students, however, can select only one additional subject.

However, schools must seek prior approval from CBSE before offering any additional subject. Furthermore, they must confirm the availability of qualified teaching staff for these subjects, ensuring academic standards are maintained.

Private Candidates: Strict Bar on Ineligible Students

For students who have failed or have been placed in the "Compartment" category, or deemed “Essential Repeat,” the Board has offered the option to reappear as private candidates.

However, there is a limitation:

• Students who did not fulfill key eligibility requirements, specifically, the attendance rule and participation in internal assessments, will not be permitted to register as private candidates, especially if they wish to add new subjects.

• This rule aims to prevent academic shortcuts and maintain uniform standards across regular and private candidates.

A Step Towards Discipline and Reform

With these updated guidelines, CBSE is clearly prioritizing academic integrity, student discipline, and alignment with national educational reforms. These rules send a strong message: board exams are not just year-end events, but the culmination of a consistent and structured learning process.

Students, parents, and schools are now advised to take these criteria seriously, as non-compliance will lead to severe academic consequences.

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CBSE Class 12 Half Yearly Sample Papers 2025