CBSE 10th Board Exam 2026: Complete Info on the Second Exam & FAQs

CBSE has Started Two Exam System for Board Examinations From 2026

After releasing the CBSE 10th results, the Central Board of Secondary Education has initiated the process for students to take the second exam. The board has also issued detailed FAQs to address confusion among students and parents.

This new system aims to reduce student stress and provide them with better opportunities.

New Examination System Implemented from 2026-27

From the 2026-27 academic session, CBSE has implemented a new system of two examinations for 10th grade students. The primary objective of this change is to relieve students from the pressure of relying on a single exam. Now, students can improve their performance by taking exams twice a year.

Under this new system, students who face compartment exams have also been given significant relief. They will now have three chances to pass, instead of one, thereby saving them from losing a year.

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Last Date to Apply for the Second Exam

CBSE has directed schools to submit the list of students appearing for the second exam and the fees by April 20. The board has given a limited time for this, so students must complete the application process in time.

Who can take the second exam?

According to the guidelines issued by the CBSE, the following students are eligible for the second examination:

Students who appeared for the first examination and wish to improve their scores.
Students who have received a ‘Compartment’ in any subject.
Students appearing for the Compartment examination in the year 2024.
Students who were not included in the initial list (they may apply through fresh enrollment).

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Opportunity to Switch Mathematics Papers

The CBSE has introduced flexibility for students regarding the subject of Mathematics:

Students who appeared for Standard Mathematics in the first examination may opt for Basic Mathematics in the second examination.
Conversely, students who appeared for Basic Mathematics may choose the option of Standard Mathematics for the second examination.
This facility will assist students in performing better in accordance with their individual proficiency levels.

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Maximum Number of Papers Allowed

In the second examination, students are permitted to appear for a maximum of three subjects. This rule applies to all students, regardless of whether they are appearing for score improvement or for a Compartment examination.

Examination Fees and Late Fees

Fee per subject: ₹320
Total fee for three subjects: ₹960
With late fee: Up to approximately ₹2,000

Students are advised to submit their fees within the stipulated deadline to avoid incurring additional charges.

Relief for Students Participating in Sports

Students who were unable to appear for the first examination due to participation in sports competitions have been granted permission to sit for the second examination. However, it is mandatory for them to deposit the prescribed fee for this purpose.

Important Instructions for Private Candidates

The CBSE has also issued specific instructions for private candidates:

Select your examination centre with utmost care.
Once a centre has been allotted, no requests for changing it will be entertained.

Therefore, it is absolutely essential to fill in all details accurately while submitting your application.

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Revaluation Facility

Once the results for both examinations have been declared, students may apply for revaluation online. Students will be able to select their subjects for Class 11 solely on the basis of these revised marks.

What Happens If a Student Is Absent from the Second Examination?

If a student has applied for the second examination and their name appears on the list, but they fail to appear for the exam, then: The result of their first examination will be considered final and valid.

CBSE’s new examination system represents a positive change for students. It provides them with an additional opportunity to improve their performance while simultaneously reducing examination-related stress.

By understanding the details of the second examination and its associated regulations, students can formulate an effective strategy and steer their future in a better direction.

Students are advised to apply on time, read the regulations carefully, and make the most of this opportunity by strengthening their preparation.

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Aabshar Hassan Quazi

Aabshar H. Quazi is a seasoned education writer associated with ALLEN Career Institute, where he crafts insightful blogs on competitive exam trends, student journeys, and academic guidance. With a background in journalism, Aabshar has worked as Principal Correspondent for Hindustan Times, honing his skills in storytelling, analysis, and impactful reporting. His writing blends credibility with clarity, making complex topics accessible for students and parents alike.