As the CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams draw near, students are immersed in rigorous preparations, striving to master key concepts and perform their best. Yet, academic preparation alone is only part of the equation. A complete understanding of the guidelines issued by CBSE is equally vital to ensure a seamless examination experience. These guidelines are more than mere instructions—they safeguard fairness, maintain order, and protect students from unintended infractions. Neglecting these critical details not only risks the loss of marks but can also result in severe consequences that may impact a student’s academic journey.
Board Exam Dates and Timelines
The 2025 board exams will be conducted from February 15 to March 18, while class 12 exams will conclude on April 4, 2025. Practical exams, internal assessments, and project work started on January 1, 2025. Students should streamline their preparation strategy, considering these timelines, and ensure that all projects and assignments are completed well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Understand Examination Ethics
CBSE has underscored the critical importance of ethical behaviour in one of the recently issued notifications. Schools are required to educate students about rules and penalties under the revised Unfair Means (UFM) Rules. Students must avoid unethical practises, such as bringing unauthorised materials or spreading rumours about the question papers. In case of violation of the rules, students can face serious consequences such as cancellation of the exam. Parents are also being urged to reinforce these principles at home, creating a collaborative approach toward ethical conduct.
Stringent Penalties for Unfair Means (UFM)
CBSE has introduced stricter penalties to address misconduct during examinations. Under the revised rules, possessing or using electronic devices like mobile phones or smartwatches at the exam center can result in the cancellation of exams for the current and following year. Similarly, spreading misinformation that disrupts the examination process will attract the same penalty. Students must familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid unintentional violations.
Clear Guidelines on Barred and Permitted Items
To maintain a fair examination environment, CBSE has issued detailed instructions about items allowed and prohibited in examination centers:
- Permitted Items: Admit card, school ID (or government-issued ID for private candidates), transparent stationery pouches, geometry boxes, analog watches, and water bottles.
- Barred Items: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators (except for approved cases), textual materials, and food items (unless for medical reasons).
Students must strictly follow these guidelines to prevent accidental violations, which could be classified as unfair means.
Changes in Question Paper Format
In 2025, CBSE has reduced the number of short and long-answer questions in board exams, emphasizing analytical and critical-thinking skills. This change aims to shift the focus from rote memorization to understanding concepts and applying them effectively. Students should prioritize practicing application-based questions and focus on developing a deeper understanding of their subjects.
Introduction of Competency-Based Questions
Competency-based questions will form a significant portion of the 2025 board exams, especially for Class 12. These questions are designed to test students’ ability to connect theoretical knowledge to real-world applications, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Students are encouraged to focus on problem-solving and experiential learning to excel in this format.
Revised Internal Assessment Structure
Internal assessments now carry a higher weightage of 40%, leaving the remaining 60% for final board exams. This includes projects, assignments, and periodic tests conducted throughout the academic year. This approach ensures that students’ consistent efforts are recognized and reduces the pressure of performing solely in the final exams. Regular participation in classroom activities and projects is now more critical than ever.
Mandatory Attendance Requirement
To be eligible for the board exams, students must maintain a minimum attendance of 75%. Exceptions will be made only for valid reasons, such as medical emergencies or participation in sports and other national or international events, provided appropriate documentation is submitted. Students should regularly track their attendance and communicate with school authorities in case of any unavoidable absences.
Enhanced Security in Examination Centers
CBSE has mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in all examination halls to ensure transparency and deter misconduct. Schools that fail to comply with this requirement will lose their eligibility to function as exam centers. This measure underscores CBSE’s focus on conducting fair and secure examinations.
Provisions for Students in Sports and Olympiads
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by students participating in national and international events, CBSE continues to offer special examination provisions. If board exams clash with competitions or travel days, these students will have the option to take exams at a later date. This initiative ensures that students can excel academically while pursuing their extracurricular passions without compromise.