The Central Board of Secondary Education’s (CBSE) decision to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year from the 2026 academic session has garnered mixed reactions from school principals. Many have welcomed the move as an effort to offer students more flexibility and reduce academic stress, though they also flagged the areas that may need further planning.

As per the new CBSE guidelines, students will take their first exam in February, while an optional second phase in May will give those looking to improve their scores another opportunity. This reform is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises reducing exam-related pressure by allowing multiple attempts.

Speaking to mid-day.com, the Principal of Podar International School (CBSE), Nerul, noted, “This will greatly benefit students with learning difficulties or those who struggle with stress. Many academically strong students will prefer to take the exams just once. Students who do not appear for the optional May exam can use the extra time to focus on higher studies.”