The 2026 CBSE Board Exams mark a significant shift toward the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The most notable changes involve the frequency of exams, the weightage of question types, and a move toward digital evaluation for certain classes.
1. For 2026, Class 12 exams will continue to be held once a year
2. New Question Paper Pattern (Class12)
The board has increased the focus on “Competency-Based” learning, moving away from rote memorization.
- 50% Competency-Based Questions: These include MCQs, case studies, source-based questions, and real-life application scenarios.
- 20% Objective-Type Questions: Dedicated Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) to test conceptual clarity.
- 30% Constructed Response Questions: Traditional short and long-answer questions have been reduced in weightage.
3. On-Screen Marking (OSM) for Class 12
A major logistical change for 2026 is the introduction of On-Screen Marking (OSM) for Class 12.
- Digital Evaluation: Answer scripts will be scanned and uploaded. Teachers will mark them digitally on computers rather than physically.
- Accuracy: This system is designed to eliminate totalling errors and speed up the result process.
4. Mandatory 75% Attendance & Internal Assessments
CBSE is tightening the rules around continuous evaluation:
- Attendance: A minimum of 75% attendance is strictly mandatory to be eligible for the board exams.
- Internal Weightage: For most subjects, the split remains 80% (Theory) + 20% (Internal Assessment/Practicals). Missing internal assessments could lead to an “Essential Repeat” status.
Quick Tip: Since 50% of your marks now come from competency questions, focus on understanding “Why” and “How” rather than just “What.
