CBSE Board Exams Now in February and May: Who Can Appear in Second Attempt?

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially introduced a significant reform in how Class 10 board exams will be conducted starting from the 2025–26 academic session. The board has decided to conduct Class 10 exams twice a year — once in February (mandatory) and another opportunity in May (optional). This change is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP), which promotes flexibility and multiple chances for students.

This move has been hailed as a major relief for students who often struggle with the pressure of “one final exam,” and it opens the door to a more accommodating academic approach.

Why Did CBSE Implement the Two-Exam Policy?

According to CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh, this structure is designed with three primary objectives:

• To uphold the seriousness and sanctity of board exams
• To ensure that students take their first attempt seriously
• To offer a fair and structured opportunity for improvement

The decision was made to prevent students from treating the first exam as a mere trial and skipping it in hopes of performing better in a second round. Thus, February will serve as the primary, mandatory attempt, while May is reserved for improvements.

Is the February Exam Mandatory?

Yes. All Class 10 students will be required to appear for the February exam. It is not optional and is considered the main board exam.

This mandatory nature ensures that students prepare earnestly and that the examination process remains credible and uniform across the country.

Is the May Exam Optional?

Yes. The May exam is optional and only for:

• Students unsatisfied with their February scores
• Students who wish to improve their marks in up to three subjects

However, CBSE has set a strict rule:

If a student is absent in three or more subjects during the February exam, they will not be allowed to sit for the May exam. Instead, they will be marked as ‘Essential Repeat’ and must reappear in the board exam the following year.

Who Is Eligible to Appear in the May Attempt?

The May session is meant for:

• Students looking to improve their scores
• Students who fall under the compartment category
• Sports quota students whose national/international events clash with the February board dates

CBSE has clarified that this second attempt is not a replacement for the first exam but an opportunity for academic improvement under clearly defined conditions.

Which Subjects Can Be Reattempted in May?

Students can choose to reappear in up to three subjects, which include:

• Science
• Mathematics
• Social Science
• Languages

These subjects have been selected keeping in mind their core importance and frequent demand for re-evaluation or score improvement.

Will the Syllabus Be the Same in Both Exams?

Yes. CBSE has confirmed that:

• Both February and May exams will be based on the full syllabus
• Internal assessments, practicals, and projects will be conducted only once—before the February exam
• The exam format and structure will remain consistent in both phases

This consistency ensures fairness and equal academic weightage for both attempts.

What Will Appear on the Final Marksheet?

CBSE’s policy is clear: Only the higher score out of the two attempts will be reflected on the final marksheet.

For instance, if a student scores 72 in Science in February and then 85 in May, only the score of 85 will appear on the final document.

The lower score will be ignored, which makes the May attempt a zero-risk opportunity for students aiming for better results.

Is This Policy Applicable to Class 12 Students?

No. This new policy is only applicable to Class 10 students.

There is currently no plan to implement the dual exam system for Class 12, although the board has not ruled out future considerations depending on feedback and results from the Class 10 implementation.

When Will the Results Be Declared?

CBSE has provided a clear schedule for result announcements:

• February Exam Results → April 2026
• May Exam Results → June 2026

This staggered approach allows students adequate time to analyze their performance and opt for the May attempt if needed.

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