In a significant reform aimed at student well-being, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has affirmed that holding Class 10 board exams twice a year starting from 2026 will not dilute the education process, but instead help reduce exam-related stress.
Speaking at the ABP News Education Conclave, Pradhan clarified that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is fully equipped to implement the move, stating:
“India has over 60 school boards and none have ever been questioned for competency. This is a progressive step to empower students, not burden the system.”
Why Two Exams?
Pradhan drew parallels with the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), which is conducted twice a year by the National Testing Agency (NTA). He highlighted how this gives students a chance to improve their performance.
“Students will now have the flexibility to appear twice and retain their best score—a move backed by education experts to ease pressure and provide more opportunities.”
When Will It Begin?
According to CBSE’s draft policy released earlier this year:
- Class 10 Board Exams 2026 will be conducted in two phases across 34 days.
- Phase 1: February 17 – March 6 (18 days)
- Phase 2: May 5 – May 20 (16 days)
- This will affect over 26.6 lakh students across 84 subjects.
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The policy is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes flexibility, choice, and a stress-free learning environment.
This move marks a paradigm shift in school assessment, putting student mental health and performance flexibility at the forefront. With the education system prepared for this rollout, the double-exam format promises greater opportunities without compromising standards.
