CBSE Class 10 From 2026: Extra Chance to Improve Marks With Second Board Exam

For Class 10, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has confirmed that from 2026 onward, students will be allowed to reappear for up to three subjects — science, mathematics, social science, and languages — in the second exam session to improve their marks. The clarification was issued again during a national webinar held on November 20, where the Board outlined the functioning of the new dual-exam system that will be implemented for the 2025–26 academic year.

The live session, streamed for viewers in India and abroad, was opened by CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh and addressed school leaders, teachers, students, and parents. Its purpose was to explain the upcoming changes, respond to concerns, and prepare stakeholders for the shift.

Two exam sessions

Beginning in 2026, Class 10 students will take two board exams annually. The first exam in February–March will be compulsory for all, while the second exam in May will be optional and meant for those seeking better scores.

Higher score will count

Students can use the better of the two attempts, with the higher score reflected on the final marksheet, giving them a clear chance to raise their overall performance.

Improvement and compartment options

Students may reattempt up to three subjects in the May session, limited to subjects with more than 50 percent external assessment.
Those who fail in one or two subjects in the first exam can appear in the second exam under the compartment category. Students who fail in three or more subjects will be marked as Essential Repeat and will not be permitted to take the second exam; they must reappear in the next year’s main exams.

Assessment and result schedule

Results for the February–March session will be announced in April, and those for the May session in June, helping maintain admission timelines and reducing gaps in the academic cycle. After the first session’s results are out, students can apply for the second exam, following which CBSE will finalise the list of candidates.

The webinar also highlighted the role of feedback and shared an email address for queries, which will be addressed directly and through updates in the FAQ section.

The new Class 10 dual-exam system is designed to ease pressure by offering more than one chance to secure better marks within the same academic year. It aligns with global assessment practices and aims to make evaluations more transparent and accessible while ensuring timely results for smooth admission processes.