What is new in CBSE 2026 paper checking and board exam structure?
India Today
CBSE's 2026 board examinations will look notably different for students across Classes 10 and 12. From digital evaluation of answer sheets to flexible exam attempts and a revamped question paper design, the Board is implementing reforms aimed at making assessments more transparent, student-friendly, and competency-driven.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced sweeping changes for the 2026 board examinations, bringing structural reforms that will impact students in both Classes 10 and 12.
The updates focus on three major areas: digital evaluation of answer sheets, the option of two board exams for Class 10, and a competency-based question paper pattern aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Here is a clear breakdown of what students and schools can expect in 2026.
Starting with the 2026 board exams, CBSE will evaluate Class 12 answer sheets through an On-Screen Marking (OSM) system. This marks a shift from the traditional method where physical answer books were transported to evaluation centres.
Under the new system, answer scripts will be scanned and assessed digitally by trained examiners. However, Class 10 answer sheets will continue to be checked in physical mode for 2026.
CBSE, which conducts board exams for nearly 46 lakh students in India and abroad, says the move is aimed at improving efficiency and transparency. According to its February 9, 2026 circular, key benefits of digital evaluation include:
Among the fashion standouts at the Oscars 2026 were Nicole Kidman, Teyana Taylor, Priyanka Chopra, Emma Stone, Audrey Nuna, Anne Hathaway and Pedro Pascal.
Thousands of degree certificates and mark sheets have remained unclaimed in several colleges for nearly four decades. Students passed their exams but never returned to collect their documents, leaving institutions struggling to store the growing pile of academic records.
In a small classroom in Aligarh's government school, waste materials are turning into machines. A government school teacher is guiding students to build simple robots and drones using scrap, helping them understand science through hands-on learning.
Elon Musk's satellite internet service, Starlink, is now available in Kuwait. This announcement comes at a time when the country has found itself impacted by the US-Israel war with Iran.
Delhi University has rejected Rahul Gandhi's claim of caste bias in interviews. In a post on X, the university said the Leader of the Opposition should verify facts before making such statements.
Apple is rumoured to be making its debut in the foldable smartphone market this year with the iPhone fold. From the design to the features, and the expected price, here is everything you need to know about the first-ever foldable iPhone.
The Central Board of Secondary Education, CBSE, has cancelled the Class 12 board examinations in several Middle Eastern countries due to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war. The board also confirmed that the mechanism for announcing results for affected students will be announced at a later stage.
Chinese giant ByteDance has reportedly suspended its plans to release its latest AI video generation model, SeeDance 2.0, after major Hollywood studios raised disputes over copyright violations.
Bidyut Innovation MD Rahul Shah spoke during the India Today Conclave 2026. Shah reckoned that India could soon have its own robots competing those from other countries, perhaps at a fraction of the cost.
Alpha High School, an AI-driven education institute is rolling out a new course with a promise – earn $1 million by the time you graduate or you get a full refund. Here is how it works.
Devendra Singh Chaplot, an IIT Bombay alum has joined xAI to build super intelligence. His arrival was welcomed by xAI chief Elon Musk. Here is everything you need to know about xAI's latest Indian origin member.
Blending heritage with modern technology, Royal Enfield is preparing to enter the electric motorcycle space with the upcoming Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6, expected to debut in India around mid-2026.
IIT Madras and the Delhi government have signed an MoU to study 'smog-eating' surfaces to help tackle air pollution in the capital.