CBSE in 2025: A look back at the changes set to reshape board exams
NEW DELHI: The Central Board of Secondary Education has rolled out a series of policy changes in 2025 that affect how students study, appear for exams, and receive support in schools. These measures cover examinations, digital identity, curriculum design, counselling systems, and technology-led learning tools.If you are a student or parent, these updates matter because they shape school life from Class 9 onwards. The reforms apply across CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad, with phased implementation beginning in the 2025–26 academic session.
Biannual Class 10 board exams from 2026CBSE has confirmed that Class 10 board examinations will be held twice a year starting in 2026. The first exam will be mandatory, while the second will be optional for improvement. The best score from the two attempts will be retained.Dr Sanyam Bhardwaj, Controller of Examinations, said the move aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and aims to reduce pressure. “The intention is to reduce the high-stakes nature of board examinations and offer students greater flexibility,” he said in a CBSE press release.Both exams will cover the full syllabus, with no change in exam pattern. Internal assessments will be conducted only once before the first exam. Results of the first phase will be available on DigiLocker for provisional Class XI admissions, while final certificates will be issued after the second exam.APAAR ID becomes mandatory for board studentsCBSE has made it compulsory for students in Classes 9 to 12 to link their APAAR ID with academic records. The 12-digit APAAR, or Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry, is part of the ‘One Nation, One Student ID’ initiative.According to CBSE officials during a governing body meeting, the system will improve data accuracy and reduce duplication. The APAAR ID integrates with DigiLocker and the Academic Bank of Credits, supporting entrance exams like JEE, NEET, and CUET.Schools have been directed to generate APAAR IDs through the UDISE+ portal, following parental consent and data verification.Exam and registration fees revisedCBSE has approved a revision in examination and registration fees after no changes since 2020. For Class 10 and 12 students in India, exam fees have increased by Rs 20 per theory subject. Practical fees have also been raised.The board stated during the meeting that the revision reflects rising operational costs. Separate fee structures apply for Nepal and other foreign countries.Curriculum changes for 2025–26The CBSE syllabus for Classes IX to XII has been revised to promote competency-based learning. Schools have been instructed to follow the National Curriculum Framework 2023, with focus on project-based learning, inquiry-driven teaching, and technology integration.The updated curriculum document outlines learning outcomes, assessment methods, and interdisciplinary approaches, moving away from rote memorisation.Career guidance and mental health supportCBSE has launched a Career Guidance Dashboard to help students explore career options using structured tools. The board also introduced the Counselling Hub and Spoke School Model for psychosocial wellbeing.CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh said the initiatives would evolve with stakeholder input, speaking during an orientation session attended by educators and counsellors.Under the hub and spoke model, selected schools mentor others in delivering counselling services, mental health programmes, and awareness activities.AI-powered digital experience centreCBSE has announced plans to set up an AI-powered digital experience centre at its Integrated Office Complex in Dwarka, New Delhi. The centre is designed to provide interactive access to educational content using advanced technology.Together, these reforms mark a system-wide shift in how CBSE manages assessment, identity, curriculum, guidance, and student wellbeing in 2025.
