The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a crucial clarification regarding the Class 10 Board Examinations 2026, introducing stricter eligibility rules for the second examination. With the first phase of the board exams set to begin shortly, the board addressed multiple student queries about appearing directly in the second exam due to unavoidable circumstances. The clarification makes it clear that participation in the first examination is mandatory for all registered students.

According to CBSE, students who fail to appear in three or more subjects during the main examination will be categorised under the “Essential Repeat” rule. Such candidates will not be permitted to sit for the second board examination in the same academic year. Instead, they must reappear for the full main examination in February of the following year, with no exceptions granted.

However, the board has provided opportunities for improvement and compartment cases. Students who pass the first examination can apply for improvement in up to three subjects, including core subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and languages. Those placed under the “Compartment” category after the first exam will also be eligible to appear in the second examination under the compartment provision.

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Additionally, students who qualify under special categories—such as first or third chance compartment, compartment combined with improvement, or improvement through subject replacement—may also sit for the second examination. However, CBSE has clearly stated that once a student passes Class 10, they will not be allowed to appear in stand-alone additional subjects.

Reiterating its stance, CBSE emphasised that it will not entertain requests for exemptions from the Essential Repeat rule. The board aims to maintain fairness, academic discipline, and examination integrity through these revised guidelines, ensuring that students adhere strictly to the examination framework beginning in 2026.

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