Is Calculator Allowed in CBSE Class 12: Exam Rules & Exceptions

Is Calculator Allowed in CBSE Class 12: CBSE Class 12 board exams do not allow calculators for any subject, including Accountancy. To ensure fairness and strengthen manual calculation skills, students must solve all numerical problems using pen and paper during offline theory exams.

Although a one-time exception was given to CWSN students in 2020 and there is a proposal to allow basic calculators in Accountancy, no such rule applies for 2025–26. Students should prepare using mental math and regular practice.

CBSE Class 12 Syllabus 2025-26

CBSE Rules on Calculator Use in Class 12

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) follows strict exam rules to keep exams fair for all students. CBSE does not allow calculators in Class 12 board exams for any subject. Students must solve all calculations by hand. This rule applies to theory exams held in offline mode at exam centres. CBSE believes that basic calculation skills are part of learning, and students should not depend on electronic devices during exams.

CBSE Class 12 Exam Calculator Policy

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) maintains strict policies for its board examinations. This ensures fairness and promotes core academic skills.

General Prohibition

For the academic year 2025-26, CBSE does not permit calculators in Class 10 or Class 12 board exams. This rule applies to all subjects. It covers all student streams: Science, Commerce, and Arts. This standard aims to ensure equal opportunities for every student. It also emphasizes the importance of mental calculations.

Historical Exception for CWSN Students

In 2020, CBSE made an exception for Children with Special Needs (CWSN) students. They could use basic, non-programmable calculators in Class 10 and Class 12 board exams. This decision aimed to support students facing additional challenges. However, this exception is not valid for the 2025-26 exams. Calculators are currently not allowed for CWSN students either.

Is a Calculator Allowed in CBSE Class 12 Accountancy?

Since accountancy includes many calculations, students often think that calculators might be allowed. However, CBSE clearly states that calculators are not allowed in Class 12 Accountancy exams. Students are expected to perform calculations manually. The question paper is designed in a way that calculations are manageable without a calculator.

Students should practice sums using rough work and mental math during preparation so they feel confident in the exam hall.

There is a proposal to allow basic calculators in the CBSE Class 12 Accountancy examination. This change would help students with complex calculations. It intends to reduce manual errors. If implemented, calculator use will be limited to basic models only. This prevents unfair advantages from advanced functions.

Subjects Where Calculator Is Not Allowed

CBSE follows the same calculator rule for all Class 12 subjects. This rule is meant to keep exams equal for every student across India.

Students should not bring calculators to the exam center, as they may be taken away or create problems during checking.

Why CBSE Does Not Allow Calculators

Many students wonder why CBSE is so strict and why is calculator allowed in CBSE Class 12 has a “no” answer every year.

CBSE wants students to understand concepts, not just get answers quickly. Manual calculation helps students build thinking skills and accuracy. Also, allowing calculators could create unfair situations if some students bring advanced models.

To keep exams simple and equal, CBSE avoids allowing any electronic devices inside the exam hall.

What Happens If a Student Brings a Calculator?

Students must be careful because bringing restricted items can cause trouble. If a student brings a calculator to the exam hall, it may be counted as an unfair means.

Even if not used, possession of a calculator can lead to a warning, removal, or strict action depending on the situation. That is why students should double-check their pockets and bags before entering the exam room.

How to Prepare Without Using a Calculator

Since calculators are not allowed, students should adjust their study methods. Practice is the key to speed and accuracy.

Here are some simple tips:

• Practice sums daily using pen and paper

• Learn short calculation tricks

• Improve multiplication and division speed

• Manage rough work properly during exams

With regular practice, students will feel comfortable solving even long sums without any electronic help.