Changes in Board Exam Pattern 2025: What You Need to Know

The CBSE Board has introduced significant changes to the Class 10 and 12 exam patterns for the 2025 session. These updates reflect a shift from rote learning toward competency-based, application-oriented assessment, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

1. Increased Weightage for Competency‑Based Questions

• Class 10: Around 30–50% of the paper consists of competency-based questions—case studies, source-based items, MCQs, and analytical problems .
• Class 12: Schools now include 40–50% competency-based sections; the remaining is divided among MCQs and short/long answers.

Why it matters: You’ll need to demonstrate application, understanding, and critical thinking, not just recall.

2. Fewer Short‑Answer & Long‑Answer Questions

• Both classes 10 and 12 have seen a reduction in descriptive question count (short and long answers) by about 10%, replaced with competency items .
• The idea is to test depth of understanding, not just verbosity.

3. Revision of Question‑Type Distribution

4. Higher Weightage for Internal Assessments

• Internal assessments (projects, periodic tests) now carry 40% of the total marks; the remaining 60% comes from the final exam .
• This highlights the importance of consistent in‑class performance.

5. Mandatory Attendance & Flexibility for Athletes

• Students must maintain 75% attendance to be eligible; exceptions include medical or sports/Olympiad participation .
• Special exam schedules accommodate athletes and Olympiad students .

6. Two‑Exam Cycle Begins 2026

• From 2026, Class 10 (and later Class 12) board exams will be held twice a year—a main exam in Feb–Mar and an optional second attempt around May.
• Students can improve performance without penalty; the best marks will count .
• The initiative aims for flexibility, although educators warn of implementation challenges

Impact on Student Performance

In West Bengal, after shifting to a 50% competency‑based pattern, CBSE Class 10 passer rate rose from 93.7% to 94.9%, showing improved results through this approach

How to Prepare: Tips for Students

1. Master NCERT & Syllabus

• Focus on concept clarity, especially for competency questions.
• Regularly check CBSE’s official site for updated sample papers.

1. Practice Competency‑Type Questions

• Use source-based, case studies, and real-life scenario
• Create mock MCQ sessions: 40–50% MCQs, 30–50% competency.

1. Organize Internal Assessments

• Consistently submit assignments/projects to secure full internal scores.
• Showcase analytical thinking and clarity.

1. Attendance & Documentation

• Maintain 75% attendance; keep records to handle exceptions.

1. Time‑Based Mock Exams

• Simulate exam conditions: MCQ + long-form + source-based questions.
• Practice pacing across sections.

1. Leverage the Two‑Exam Option (from 2026)

• Treat first exam as a learning experience; use feedback for the second.
• Retake up to three subjects to optimize scores

Conclusion

CBSE’s pivot toward competency-oriented, analytical evaluation, along with attendance mandates and a two-exam model, require students to shift from memorization to real-world application. Bloggers should update resources and guides accordingly—focus on sample questions, mock tests, and study schedules aligned with these changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the major changes in CBSE Board Exam 2025?

The CBSE Board Exam 2025 introduces a higher weightage of competency-based questions (up to 50%), reduced emphasis on rote learning, and greater importance to internal assessments (40%). From 2026, students will also have the option to appear for board exams twice a year.

2. What are competency-based questions in CBSE exams?

Competency-based questions assess students’ understanding and ability to apply concepts in real-life situations. These include case-based, source-based, assertion-reason, and application-level MCQs or short answers.

3. How can I prepare for the new CBSE exam pattern 2025?

Focus on conceptual clarity, solve CBSE sample papers, practice real-life scenario questions, and regularly revise using NCERT textbooks. Also, participate actively in internal assessments and keep attendance above 75%.

4. Will there be two board exams in 2025?

No. The two-board-exam system will be implemented from the academic year 2025–26 (i.e., for students appearing in 2026). In 2025, the existing single-exam format will continue.

5. What is the role of internal assessment in 2025 board exams?

Internal assessments will contribute up to 40% of the total marks, including periodic tests, project work, and subject enrichment activities. Regular performance throughout the year is essential.