The CBSE New Guidelines 2025 have created a storm in the education sector with sweeping reforms for the 2025-26 academic session. These comprehensive changes will directly affect millions of students across Classes 9-12, introducing stricter attendance rules and completely new examination patterns that parents and students must understand immediately.
Key Points About CBSE New Guidelines 2025
- 75% attendance now mandatory for Class 10 and 12 board exam eligibility
- Dual examination system introduced for Class 10 students starting 2026
- Two-year program structure strictly enforced for all board classes
- Internal assessments become compulsory with 40% weightage in final results
- New 9-point grading system replaces previous 5-tier structure
Table of Contents
CBSE 75 Percent Attendance Mandatory: No More Shortcuts
The most shocking change in the CBSE board exam rules 2025-26 is the strict 75% attendance requirement. Students who fail to meet this attendance benchmark will be placed in ‘Essential Repeat’ status, forcing them to repeat the entire academic year.
This attendance policy directly links to internal assessments, which run continuously throughout the two-year academic period. CBSE allows attendance condonation only under extreme circumstances like medical emergencies, bereavements, or national-level sports participation – all requiring proper documentation.
What This Means for Students:
- Missing 25% of school days = No board exam eligibility
- Internal assessments cannot be skipped or made up later
- Students must attend school regularly, not just before exams
CBSE Class 10 Dual Exam System: Double Chances, Double Pressure
Starting in 2026, CBSE Class 10 dual exam system will allow students to take board examinations twice yearly – in February and April/May. While this sounds beneficial, it comes with specific conditions:
- February exam is mandatory for all students
- May exam is optional for grade improvement in up to 3 subjects
- Best score from both attempts counts toward final results
- Students can’t skip February exam and only appear in May
This system aims to reduce exam stress but actually increases preparation pressure as students may feel compelled to appear for both examinations.
CBSE Internal Assessment Requirements: 40% of Your Future
CBSE internal assessment requirements have become non-negotiable, carrying 40% weightage in final results. These assessments include:
- Periodic tests and assignments
- Project work and practical evaluations
- Class participation and activities
- Continuous evaluation throughout the year
Students attending irregularly will automatically miss these assessments. Without complete internal assessment records, CBSE will not declare board results – making attendance even more critical.
CBSE Registration Guidelines Class 9 11: New Digital Requirements
The CBSE registration guidelines Class 9 11 introduce mandatory registration through the Pariksha Sangam portal. Key requirements include:
For Indian Students:
- APAAR ID linking mandatory for all registrations
- Schools must issue verification slips post-registration
- Correction window: November 14-28, 2025
- Late fees apply for delayed submissions
For Overseas Students:
- UAE and other international schools exempt from APAAR ID requirements
- Simplified registration process for Indian expat students
This digital registration system ensures better tracking and eliminates last-minute enrollment issues that previously plagued the board.
CBSE Two Year Program Structure: No More Quick Fixes
The CBSE two year program structure has been formalized with strict implementation:
- Class 10 Program: Covers Classes 9 and 10 together
- Class 12 Program: Covers Classes 11 and 12 together
- Any board subject must be studied for two consecutive years
- No shortcuts or late admissions allowed
This change particularly impacts students who previously tried to enroll directly in Class 10 or 12 without completing the foundation year. The board has also introduced comprehensive assessment methods for Class 9, including open-book examinations starting from 2026-27, making the two-year structure even more integrated.
CBSE New Grading System 2025: 9-Point Scale Revolution
The CBSE new grading system 2025 replaces the previous 5-tier system with a comprehensive 9-point grading scale:
- A1 Grade: Top 12.5% of students
- Enhanced Assessment: 50% competency-based questions
- Skill Focus: Problem-solving over rote memorization
- Real-world Application: Practical knowledge emphasis
This grading system aligns with international standards while promoting conceptual understanding over memorization.
CBSE Board Exam Eligibility Criteria: What Students Must Know
The new CBSE board exam eligibility criteria create multiple checkpoints:
Attendance Requirements:
- Minimum 75% attendance in each subject
- Documented medical/emergency exceptions only
- No retroactive attendance adjustments
Academic Requirements:
- Complete internal assessment participation
- Two-year program completion
- Proper registration with required documents
Additional Subject Rules:
- Class 10: Maximum 2 additional subjects allowed
- Class 12: Maximum 1 additional subject permitted
- All additional subjects require two-year study
Impact on Different Student Categories
Regular Students: Must maintain consistent attendance and performance throughout both years
Private Candidates: Face stricter scrutiny with enhanced documentation requirements
International Students: Benefit from relaxed APAAR ID requirements but must follow other guidelines
Students with Disabilities: Receive accommodations within the new framework while meeting core requirements
Conclusion
The CBSE New Guidelines 2025 represent the most comprehensive educational reform in recent years, prioritizing continuous assessment and regular school attendance over last-minute exam preparation. While these changes may initially seem challenging, they align with modern educational practices that promote consistent learning and holistic development. Students and parents must adapt quickly to these new requirements to ensure academic success in the evolving education landscape.
FAQs About CBSE New Guidelines 2025
Q: Can students with 74% attendance appear for board exams?
A: No, 75% attendance is mandatory. Students with lower attendance will be placed in Essential Repeat status and must repeat the year.
Q: Is the February board exam mandatory for Class 10 students?
A: Yes, the February exam is compulsory. The May exam is optional and only for grade improvement in up to 3 subjects.
Q: What happens if a student misses internal assessments due to illness?
A: Students must provide proper medical documentation. CBSE may consider genuine cases, but without internal assessment records, results cannot be declared.
Q: Can Class 11 students directly appear for Class 12 board exams?
A: No, the two-year program structure is strictly enforced. Students must complete both years of the program before board exam eligibility.
November 20, 2025