CBSE announces major changes to Class 10 ,12 syllabus: What’s new for board exam 2026?
Skill-based learning, new subjects, revised exam format: Key curriculum changes explained
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the Class 10 and Class 12 syllabus for the 2025-26 academic session. The revised curriculum outlines learning objectives, subject guidelines, and assessment criteria for students appearing in the CBSE Board Exams 2026, aiming to enhance learning outcomes and provide new academic opportunities.
Key Reforms in the CBSE Education System
According to media reports, a significant change in the updated framework is the introduction of a dual-exam system for Class 10 students, enabling them to take board exams twice a year—once in February and again in April. This initiative aims to reduce academic stress and offer students an additional opportunity to improve their scores.
Meanwhile, Class 12 board exams will continue to be held annually, with the 2026 exams scheduled to begin on February 17, and nearly 2 million students expected to appear.
To further improve the education system, CBSE has introduced several key reforms:
Two Board Exams for Class 10: Starting from the 2025-26 academic year, Class 10 students can appear for board exams twice a year, offering them a chance to enhance their scores.
Competency-Based Questions: A greater focus on conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization.
Revised Revaluation Process: Ensuring greater transparency and fairness in assessments.
Subject-Specific Guidelines: A structured assessment approach that integrates experiential learning, project-based assignments, and technology-enabled education.
CBSE Class 10 syllabus 2025-26
The Class 10 syllabus will be based on a 9-point grading system. Key assessment details include:
Assessment Structure: Board exams will be conducted for 80 marks, with an additional 20 marks allocated for internal assessments.
Passing Criteria: Students must secure at least 33% in each subject to pass.
CBSE Class 12 syllabus 2025-26
To enhance practical learning and career readiness, CBSE has introduced four new skill-based elective subjects for Class 12:
Land Transportation Associate
Electronics and Hardware
Physical Activity Trainer
Design Thinking and Innovation
Students opting for technical subjects such as Informatics Practices, Computer Science, and Information Technology can choose only one from these options.
Curriculum Structure
The Class 12 curriculum is divided into seven major learning areas:
Languages
Humanities
Mathematics
Sciences
Skill Subjects
General Studies
Health and Physical Education
These updates reflect CBSE’s commitment to modernising education, offering greater flexibility and emphasising skill-based learning.
Key changes
9-Point Grading Scale: Similar to Class 10, Class 12 assessments will follow a 9-point grading system.
Elective Choices: Students can opt for only one among Informatics Practices, Computer Science, or Information Technology.
Important dates for CBSE exams
Class 10 Board Exams: Held twice a year – February and April.
Class 12 Board Exams: Begin on February 17, 2026.
Expected student participation: Around 2 million students are anticipated to appear for the Class 12 exams in 2026.
Focus on experiential learning
To enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes, CBSE is actively promoting:
Competency-based assessments
Project-based learning
Inquiry-driven teaching methodologies
Technology-enabled education
These reforms aim to make CBSE board exams more student-friendly and skill-oriented. With new electives, competency-based assessments, and multiple exam opportunities, CBSE continues to evolve to meet the changing educational landscape. Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these updates and plan their studies accordingly.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
