Year Ender 2025: From two board exams to skill-based evaluation, CBSE’s big changes
CBSE's key reforms this year included multiple board exam attempts for Class 10, skill-focused question papers, increased use of MCQs and stricter attendance rules, aligning school education with NEP 2020 goals.
New Delhi: The year 2025 marked a significant shift in India’s school education system as the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced a series of reforms with an aim to reduce exam pressure and improve learning outcomes. These changes are aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and focus on making education more student-friendly, skill-oriented and future-ready.
From changing the exam structure to tightening attendance rules, CBSE’s decisions this year are expected to impact students across the country. The reforms are designed to move away from rote learning and encourage a deeper understanding, critical thinking and the real-world application of knowledge.
Two board exams for Class 10
One of the most important reforms announced this year is the introduction of two board exams in a year for Class 10 students. Under this system, students will get more than one opportunity to appear for the board exams.
The move aims to give students flexibility and allow to improve their performance without the fear of a single high-stakes exam. As per the board, this will promote conceptual learning and better preparation for future academic and career paths.
Major changes in evaluation pattern
CBSE has also announced a major overhaul of its evaluation process to focus more on skills and understanding rather than memorisation. From the year 2026 onwards, 50 per cent of the board exam questions will be competency-based and will include case studies, source-based questions, situation-based problems, mathematical explanations and application-based questions.
In addition, 20 per cent of the paper will consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), while the remaining 30 per cent will be constructed-response questions including both short and long answers. This balanced approach is meant to strengthen problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking and practical understanding among students.
Attendance rule made mandatory
Another key change introduced this year is the mandatory 75 per cent attendance requirement for students of Class 10 and 12 to be eligible to appear for board exams. A relaxation of up to 25 per cent will be allowed only in cases of medical emergencies or participation in sports and only with valid certification.
CBSE has directed schools to clearly inform students and parents about attendance rules and the consequences of failing to meet the order.
Overall, CBSE’s reforms in the year 2025 clearly show a move towards a more flexible, skill-based and student-centric education system. By reducing exam pressure and focusing on understanding, these changes aim to better prepare students for higher education, careers and real-life challenges ahead.