The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a new syllabus for the 2025-2026 academic year. These changes aim to make learning more practical and useful for students in Classes 9 to 12. The updates include new teaching methods, assessment patterns, and subject choices. Here are the details
Important Changes for Students and Teachers
Two Board Exams for Class 10
From 2025-26, Class 10 students will have two board exams each year, one in February and another in April. This will give students a second chance to improve their scores in the same academic year.
However, this rule is still in the discussion stage, and CBSE has not made a final decision. For Class 12, board exams will continue to happen once a year, starting from February 17, 2026.
Passing Marks for Class 10
To pass the Class 10 board exams, students must score at least 33% in each subject. If a student fails in a core subject (like Science, Math, Social Science, or a language) but passes a skill-based or additional language subject, the skill subject marks can replace the failed subject.
For example, if a student fails in Math but scores well in a skill-based subject, the skill subject marks will be counted instead.
More Focus on Skill-Based Subjects in Class 10
CBSE is making skill-based learning more important by adding new subjects like:
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Computer Applications
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Information Technology
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Artificial Intelligence
Students must also choose either English or Hindi as one of their languages in Classes 9 and 10.
New Skill Subjects for Class 12
CBSE has added four new skill-based subjects for Class 12 to help students gain practical knowledge:
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Land Transportation Associate
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Electronics and Hardware
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Physical Activity Trainer
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Design Thinking and Innovation
These subjects will help students prepare for different careers and industries.
Calculators Allowed in Class 12 Accountancy Exams
To help students with difficult calculations, CBSE will allow basic, non-programmable calculators in the Class 12 Accountancy board exam from 2025-26. This decision aims to reduce stress and improve accuracy in calculations.
Changes in Teaching and Learning
CBSE wants schools to focus on real-world skills by introducing:
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Project-based learning: Students will work on real problems instead of just reading from books.
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Inquiry-based education: Students will be encouraged to ask questions and explore answers.
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Technology in learning: AI tools, digital platforms, and online resources will be used more in classrooms.
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Teamwork in teaching: Teachers will work together to improve teaching methods for students.
This means learning will focus more on understanding, problem-solving, and critical thinking, rather than just memorizing facts.
New Exam Pattern: Focus on Understanding
CBSE is also changing how students are tested. Instead of just checking memory, exams will now test:
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Critical thinking
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Analytical skills
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Concept clarity
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Practical application of knowledge
This will help students be better prepared for college and jobs in the future.
Where to Find the New Syllabus
The updated syllabus for Classes 9 to 12 is available on the official CBSE website. Students, parents, and teachers should check the syllabus to understand the new changes.
With these updates, CBSE aims to make learning more skill-based, useful, and student-friendly so that students are ready for their future careers and higher education.
