CBSE CLASS 10 : CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) has rolled out significant updates for the upcoming Academic Session 2025-26, especially for Class 10 students gearing up for their Board Exams. These changes are designed to make the examination system more flexible, student-friendly, and aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
At Knowhub.in, we understand that navigating these changes can be daunting. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you stay informed and prepared for the new academic year. Let’s dive into the major reforms!
1. Two Board Exams for Class 10: A Game-Changer!
Perhaps the most talked-about change is the introduction of two Board Exams for Class 10 each year, starting from the 2025-26 session.
- When: These exams will be held in February and again in April.
- Flexibility: Students will have the option to appear in either or both examinations.
- Best Score Counts: The better score of the two attempts will be considered for the final mark sheet. This revolutionary step aims to significantly reduce exam stress and provide students with a valuable second chance to improve their performance.
2. Emphasis on Competency-Based Questions (CBQs):
The new CBSE Exam Pattern for Class 10 will see a greater emphasis on competency-based questions.
- Shift from Rote Learning: The focus is moving away from rote memorization towards assessing conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and application of knowledge.
- Question Paper Mix: Expect roughly 50% competency-based questions (including MCQs, case-based, and source-based integrated questions), 20% MCQs, and 30% short/long answer questions.
- What it Means for You: This means you’ll need to understand concepts deeply and practice applying them to various scenarios, rather than just memorizing facts.
3. Revised Grading System: The 9-Point Scale
CBSE is transitioning to a 9-point grading system for both Class 10 and 12 Board Exams.
- More Nuanced Assessment: This system provides a more detailed assessment of student performance, moving away from a simpler 5-point scale. Grades will be awarded based on octiles (each 1/8th of passed candidates falls into a grade band).
- Impact: This aims to offer a clearer picture of students’ understanding and capabilities and potentially reduce unhealthy competition over minor mark differences.
4. Updated Passing Criteria & Skill-Based Subject Integration:
There are crucial updates to the CBSE Class 10 Passing Marks 2025-26:
- 33% in Each Subject: Students still need to secure a minimum of 33% in each subject (combining theory and internal assessment) to pass.
- Skill Subject Substitution: In a significant move, if a student fails in a core academic subject (like Math, Science, Social Science, or a language) but passes an optional skill-based subject or an additional language, the passing marks from the skill/optional subject can replace the failed core subject for result calculation. This encourages students to explore and value skill-based learning.
- New Skill Electives: CBSE is promoting subjects like Computer Applications, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence for Class 10, and has introduced new skill electives for Class 12.
5. Internal Assessment & Practical Work:
The weightage of internal assessments remains significant:
- 80 Marks Theory, 20 Marks Internal: Most subjects will have 80 marks for the theory paper and 20 marks allocated for internal assessments (periodic tests, notebook submission, subject enrichment activities, practicals/projects).
- Consistent Effort: This emphasizes consistent effort throughout the year, not just performance in the final exam.
How Knowhub.in Helps You Conquer the New CBSE Landscape:
At Knowhub.in, we are fully aligned with these latest CBSE updates for the 2025-26 academic session. Our courses are meticulously designed to ensure you not only understand the new pattern but also excel in it:
- Competency-Focused Curriculum: Our CBSE Class 10 Physics Course (Full Syllabus) and other subject courses are built to foster deep conceptual understanding and application, perfectly matching the new CBQ format.
- Live Online Classes: Our Class 10 live classes offer interactive learning, enabling real-time doubt clarification and personalized attention, crucial for mastering complex topics.
- Targeted Study Materials: Access comprehensive Science Notes and practice materials designed specifically for the 2025-26 Board Exams, covering all subjects and the updated paper pattern.
- Expert Educators: Learn from experienced teachers who understand the nuances of the CBSE curriculum and the new evaluation system.
Don’t let the new changes become a source of stress. Instead, see them as an opportunity to demonstrate your true understanding and skills. With Knowhub.in, you’re not just preparing for an exam; you’re building a strong foundation for future academic success.
Ready to ace your CBSE Class 10 Board Exams 2025-26? Explore our courses at Knowhub.in today and take the first step towards a confident and successful academic journey!
