Education

Board Exams Twice A Year: New Education changes for CBSE Class 11 and 12 Students

Changes introduced by the National Education Policy, including conducting board exams twice a year for CBSC Class 11 and 12 students, studying two languages, and the shift towards competency-based assessments.

Transformative shift with the recent announcement made by the Centre on August 23rd. In line with the National Education Policy (NEP), significant changes have been introduced, aiming to enhance the learning experience for students. One of the key highlights is the decision to conduct board exams twice a year for CBSE Class 11 and 12 students. This change comes with a slew of other modifications that will undoubtedly reshape the educational journey of young learners.

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A Paradigm Shift in Board Examinations

Under the newly introduced framework, board exams will no longer be a once-a-year event. The Centre’s decision to conduct board exams twice a year marks a departure from the traditional approach. This groundbreaking change is rooted in the goal of providing students with ample time and opportunities to excel. By offering exams twice a year, students can choose to appear for subjects they have confidently completed and feel prepared for. This shift also aligns with the principle of retaining the best score, empowering students to put forth their best efforts without the fear of irreversible outcomes.

Emphasis on Multilingual Proficiency

In an effort to enrich the linguistic capabilities of students, the Centre has mandated a compelling change for Class 11 and 12 students. Under the new policy, students are required to study two languages. Importantly, at least one of these languages must be of Indian origin. This move not only promotes the preservation of Indian languages but also fosters a deeper connection with the cultural heritage of the nation. This mandate reflects the NEP’s commitment to holistic education that encompasses linguistic diversity and cultural understanding.

Competency-Based Assessments: A Game-Changer

One of the most significant changes brought about by the NEP is the shift from conventional testing methods to competency-based assessments. This transition is designed to alleviate the pressures associated with the prevailing coaching-intensive and rote-learning practices. Instead of emphasizing lengthy preparation and memorization, the new assessment approach focuses on evaluating students’ comprehension and competency in subject matter. This change promises a more comprehensive evaluation, nurturing a deeper understanding of concepts and encouraging critical thinking.

Flexibility in Subject Choices

The updated curriculum framework embraces a vital principle—students in Class 11 and 12 should have the freedom to explore a wide spectrum of subjects beyond conventional streams like arts, science, and commerce. This flexibility aims to nurture individual passions and talents, allowing students to pursue subjects that resonate with their aspirations. By fostering diverse subject choices, the educational system is moving towards a more personalized learning experience that aligns with the uniqueness of each student.

Integrating ‘On Demand’ Exams

A forward-looking aspect of the NEP involves the eventual incorporation of ‘on demand’ exams. While this feature is expected to be integrated over time, it signifies a dynamic shift in the way exams are administered. School boards are tasked with developing the capacity to offer exams based on student readiness, thereby accommodating diverse learning paces. To ensure the highest quality of exam development and evaluation, individuals involved will be required to undergo university-certified courses—a testament to the commitment towards maintaining educational rigor.

Embracing Cost Optimization and Book Learning

Recognizing the financial burden that textbooks can impose on students and parents, the new framework emphasizes the optimization of textbook costs. Additionally, the practice of ‘covering’ textbooks in the classroom, a routine that has prevailed for years, is set to be replaced. This change is a step towards encouraging students to engage more actively with the learning materials, fostering a deeper understanding of the content.


The transformative changes introduced by the Centre’s announcement regarding board exams, language proficiency, competency-based assessments, subject flexibility, and the overall curriculum framework are poised to redefine the educational journey of Class 11 and 12 students in India. With a focus on holistic development, cultural enrichment, and personalized learning experiences, the National Education Policy is paving the way for a more dynamic and empowering education system. As the paradigm shifts, students will undoubtedly benefit from increased opportunities, reduced pressures, and a more comprehensive approach to learning and evaluation.

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