CBSE Rolls Out New SOPs for Class 10 & 12 Practical Exams
CBSE has introduced new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Class 10 and 12 practical exams for the 2025–26 academic year, setting clear guidelines to ensure consistency, transparency, and fairness in the evaluation process across all affiliated schools.
Rationale Behind the New SOPs
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) regularly updates its assessment policies to address emerging challenges and enhance the quality of education. The revised SOPs for practical exams are designed to streamline the process, minimise errors, and ensure that every student receives a fair and timely evaluation. These guidelines reflect CBSE’s commitment to maintaining high standards and promoting a uniform assessment system throughout the country.
Practical Exam Schedule
For the 2025–26 session, practical exams for regular schools are scheduled from January 1 to February 14, 2026. Winter-bound schools, located in regions with harsh winter conditions, will conduct their practical exams from November 6 to December 6, 2025. This staggered schedule ensures that all students, regardless of their geographical location, have the opportunity to complete their practical assessments without disruption.
Key Changes and Requirements
One of the most significant changes introduced by CBSE is the requirement for schools to upload marks to the official portal on the same day after evaluation. Once marks are submitted, no corrections will be allowed, emphasising the need for accuracy and diligence in the assessment process. This measure is intended to prevent last-minute errors and ensure that results are processed efficiently.
For Class 10, practical exams will be conducted internally by schools, with no external examiners appointed. Schools must retain and submit practical answer books to regional offices as per board rules. This internal evaluation system is designed to empower schools to take greater responsibility for the assessment process while ensuring accountability.
For Class 12, CBSE will appoint external examiners to oversee the practical exams. Both internal and external examiners must be present during assessments, and external examiners must inspect labs before exams to ensure all required equipment is available. This dual-examiner system is intended to enhance the credibility and fairness of the evaluation process.
Batch Management and Compliance
Practical exams must be conducted in batches of 30 students, with subgroups of 15 permitted for laboratory and written components. This batch management system is designed to ensure that each student receives adequate attention and that the assessment process is manageable for both students and examiners.
Schools are also required to upload group photographs of students, examiners, and supervisors present during evaluation. This measure is intended to promote transparency and accountability in the assessment process.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Any violation of the SOPs may result in the cancellation and re-conduct of exams under CBSE supervision. This strict enforcement is intended to ensure that all schools adhere to the guidelines and maintain the integrity of the assessment process.
Why These Changes Matter
The updated SOPs are designed to streamline the assessment process, minimise errors, and ensure that every student receives fair and timely evaluation. Schools are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with the new guidelines and prepare accordingly to avoid last-minute issues.
The new CBSE SOPs for Class 10 and 12 practical exams mark a significant step toward more transparent and efficient assessment in Indian schools. By adhering to these guidelines, schools can ensure a smooth and fair evaluation process for all students. These changes reflect CBSE’s commitment to maintaining high standards and promoting a uniform assessment system, ultimately benefiting both students and STEM educators.
