The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released fresh instructions for registration and eligibility for the 2026 Class 10 and 12 board exams. The new rules make attendance, internal assessments and a two-year study period mandatory.
Registration Through Pariksha Sangam: CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to register students of Classes 9 and 11 for the academic session 2025-26 through the Pariksha Sangam portal. The registration process is critical for students’ eligibility in Class 10 and 12 exams. Parents must be informed of the details for corrections, if required. The board has also asked schools to ensure that only bonafide students are registered, with correct details of name, date of birth, and subjects.
Two-Year Programme Now Compulsory: CBSE has formally declared that both Class 10 and Class 12 exams will be treated as two-year programmes. This means Class 9 and 10 together form a complete course for the Class 10 exam, while Class 11 and 12 together form the foundation for Class 12. Students cannot skip foundation classes or join late, as any subject taken in the board exam must have been studied for two consecutive years.
75% Attendance Must: The board has made it clear that students must have at least 75% attendance to be eligible for board exams. Schools will maintain strict daily registers to track attendance. A relaxation of up to 25% may be granted only in extreme cases such as medical emergencies, bereavement, or participation in national-level sports and cultural events — and only with valid proof. Students with poor attendance and no valid reason will be barred from exams, even if they are enrolled as regular candidates.
Internal Assessment Is Non-Negotiable: In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, internal assessment has become an integral part of evaluation. It will be conducted continuously over two years and include periodic tests, projects, and classroom participation. Students who fail to attend school regularly will automatically miss these assessments. Without proper records, CBSE will not declare their results. Such students will be placed in the “Essential Repeat” category, even if they attempt theory papers.
Restrictions On Additional Subjects: The guidelines also introduce stricter rules for additional subjects. Class 10 students may opt for two additional subjects beyond the compulsory five. Class 12 students may opt for only one additional subject. These additional subjects must also be studied over two years. Moreover, CBSE has warned schools against offering subjects without approval. If schools lack qualified teachers, labs, or CBSE’s formal permission, students will not be allowed to register for those subjects.
Rules For Private Candidates And Repeaters: CBSE has clarified the rules for repeat candidates. Students who earlier opted for additional subjects but were placed in Compartment or Essential Repeat categories can reappear as private candidates. However, students who have not followed the mandatory two-year study and attendance requirements will not be allowed to offer additional subjects as private candidates.
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