CBSE Latest Update 2025: Major Reforms in Board Exams, Curriculum, and Assessments Announced

Discover the latest CBSE updates for 2025, including new exam formats, curriculum changes, skill labs, global curriculum rollout, and NEP 2020 integration. Stay informed with all official CBSE.nic.in news.

1. CBSE Board Exams 2025: Key Dates and Changes

Exam Schedule: The CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams commenced on February 15, 2025, and concluded in April 2025.
Assessment Modifications: In a significant shift, CBSE announced that students would no longer receive divisions or aggregate marks in their results. This change aims to alleviate pressure and promote holistic learning.

2. Introduction of Twice-Yearly Board Exams

Implementation Year: Starting from the 2026 academic session, CBSE will conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year—once in February and again in May. The Times of India+1The Economic Times+1
Purpose: This initiative is designed to reduce exam stress and provide students with opportunities to improve their performance

3. Changes in Practical and Internal Assessments

Annual Practical Exams: Practical assessments for Class 10 will be held once a year, with the best scores considered for the final marksheet.
Internal Assessment Weightage: The weightage for internal assessments has been increased to 40%, emphasizing continuous evaluation over a single final exam. NDTV India

4. Launch of Global Curriculum for Foreign Schools

Global Curriculum Introduction: CBSE is set to introduce a global curriculum for affiliated foreign schools starting from the 2026-27 academic session.Objective: This curriculum aims to provide a competitive and comprehensive educational experience, aligning with international standards.

5. Strict Measures Against Unfair Means

Cheating Consequences: Students found using unfair means during exams will face severe penalties, including a two-year ban from taking future exams.
Guidelines: CBSE has issued detailed guidelines regarding permissible items, dress codes, and penalties for various offences to ensure a fair examination process.

6. Career Counseling Initiatives

Webinar Series: CBSE is launching a series of career counseling webinars starting from April 8, 2025, aimed at guiding students in their career choices.
Objective: These sessions are designed to provide students with insights into various career paths and help them make informed decisions.

7. SAFAL: Competency-Based Assessment for Classes 5 and 8

SAFAL Program: CBSE has introduced the SAFAL program for Classes 5 and 8, focusing on competency-based assessments rather than rote learning. Economic Times Education+1The Times of India+1
Implementation: The program aims to identify learning gaps and promote a deeper understanding of core concepts among students.Economic Times Education

8. Mandate for NCERT Textbooks

Textbook Requirement: Starting this academic year, CBSE has mandated the use of NCERT textbooks for Classes 9 to 12. The Times of India
Rationale: This move aims to standardize the curriculum and ensure that all students have access to quality educational resources.

9. Introduction of Composite Skill Labs

Skill Lab Requirement: CBSE schools are required to set up Composite Skill Labs to support skill-based education as per the NEP 2020. The Times of India+1Economic Times Education+1
Specifications: Schools need to create labs for classes 6 to 12; options include one 600 square foot lab or two separate 400 square foot labs.The Times of India

10. Enhanced Focus on Internal Assessments

Assessment Structure: CBSE has revised the assessment structure to give more weightage to internal assessments, promoting continuous evaluation.
Objective: This change aims to reduce the emphasis on final exams and encourage consistent academic performance throughout the year.

Conclusion

CBSE’s reforms in 2025 reflect a significant shift towards a more flexible, student-centric education system. By introducing twice-yearly exams, enhancing internal assessments, and focusing on skill development, CBSE aims to create a more balanced and comprehensive educational experience for students.

Quick Reference Table

Reform Area	Details
Twice-Yearly Exams	Exams in February and May starting 2026.
Internal Assessment Weightage	Increased to 40% for Class 10.
Global Curriculum	Introduction for foreign schools in 2026-27.
Unfair Means Policy	Two-year ban for students caught cheating.
Career Counseling	Webinars starting April 8, 2025.
SAFAL Program	Competency-based assessments for Classes 5 and 8.
NCERT Textbooks	Mandatory for Classes 9 to 12.
Skill Labs	Requirement for skill-based education as per NEP 2020.