CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026: What if you score less? Second exam rules explained

CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026

• CBSE allows Class 10 students two board exam attempts in one academic year
• Second exam in May lets students improve scores in up to three main subjects
• February exam is mandatory; second chance for improvement or compartment only.

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Exams can be stressful, and sometimes you might not get the marks you hoped for. The good news is that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has a system that gives you a second chance. If you are a Class 10 student who is going to appear in the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026 starting on February 17 and are worried about scoring less, here’s a simple guide to what you can do if you want to try again.

CBSE Board Exam: Two Chances in One Year

CBSE now allows students to take board exams two times in a single academic year.

First Exam: The main exam, held in February-March.

Second Exam: An additional opportunity, held in May.

This system is designed to reduce pressure and let you improve your scores.

Who Can Appear for the Second Exam?

You can choose the second exam for specific reasons:

• To Improve Scores: This is the most common reason. If you are a passed student, you can try to get better marks in up to three subjects. However, you can only choose these three from the main subjects: Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and Languages.
• If You Got a Compartment: If your result in the first exam is "Compartment" (meaning you need to retake one or two subjects), you can reappear for those subjects in the second exam.

Important Rules to Remember

Mandatory First Attempt: You must appear for the first main examination in February. You cannot skip it and go directly for the second one.

The "Essential Repeat" Rule: If you missed three or more subjects in the first exam, you cannot take the second exam. You will be placed in the "Essential Repeat" category and will have to wait for the main exams next February.

No New Subjects: You cannot add a new subject after passing Class X. The second exam is only for improvement or compartment in subjects you have already taken.

Provisional Admission: If you don’t qualify in the first exam, you can often take provisional admission to Class XI. Your final admission will be confirmed once the results of the second exam are out.

Special Cases

Sportspersons: If your sports event clashed with an exam, you can take that subject in the second attempt.

Students with Special Needs (CWSN): The facilities provided in the first exam will also be available in the second.

Key Takeaways for Students

• A Safety Net Exists: Performing poorly in one exam is not the end. You have a planned second chance within a few months.
• Plan for Improvement: You can improve your score in a maximum of three main subjects. Choose wisely based on where you can gain the most marks.
• Don't Skip the First Exam: Your primary attempt is compulsory. Give it your best shot.
• The Timeline: The second exam happens in May, giving you about two months to prepare specifically for the subjects you want to improve.

The CBSE's two-exam system is a student-friendly reform. It acknowledges that one exam doesn't define your capability. If your February attempt didn't go as planned, use the rules wisely. Identify up to three subjects, focus your preparation, and approach the May exams with confidence. This policy is designed to help you put your best foot forward.