Archive · 21 Nov 2025
CBSE Introduces Optional Second Exam for Class 10 Students
CBSE is starting a new system where Class 10 students can take their exams twice a year.
If they don't do well in the first exam in February-March, they can take the exam again in May to improve their scores.
This is for subjects where more than half the marks come from written tests.
Students can only take the second exam if they fail one or two subjects, not all.
The better score of the two will be used for the final result.
The board expects only about 40% of students to take the second exam.
CBSE Class 10 students can re-attempt up to three subjects in an optional second exam.
The first exam is in Feb-Mar 2026, and the optional second exam is in May 2026.
Better of the two scores will be considered for the final result.
Second exam only for subjects with over 50% external assessment.
Students who fail in one or two subjects can take the second exam under compartment category.
- Who
- CBSE Class 10 students
- What
- Can re-attempt up to three subjects in an optional second exam
- When
- First exam: Feb-Mar 2026, Second exam: May 2026
- Where
- CBSE schools
- Why
- To give students more chances to improve their academic performance
Proponents of the new system
Critics of the new system
Additional Attempts
Proponents of the new system
Gives students more chances to improve scores
Critics of the new system
May lead to unnecessary stress and pressure for students
- Exam Cycles
- Two per year
- Subjects Eligible for Second Exam
- Science, Mathematics, Social Science, Languages with over 50% external assessment
- Better Score Considered
- Yes, for the final result
- Second Exam Registration
- After receiving first-cycle results
- Expected Participation in Second Exam
- Around 40% of students
Sources
CBSE Class 10 Students Can Reattempt Three Subjects in New Dual-Exam System
CBSE Board Exam 2026: CBSE Limits Second Board Exam For These Students, Check Here
CGBSE 10th, 12th Board Exams 2026 Timetable (Out): Chhattisgarh Board HSC, HSSC full date sheet here
