CBSE Board 2026: First exam is mandatory, if you miss 3 subjects, you will not get a chance for second exam.

CBSE Board 2026 Rule: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) class 10 and class 12 board examinations have started from 17 February 2026. CBSE has issued important clarification regarding the 10th board examination. The board has made it clear that the students who do not appear in the first examination will directly appear for the second examination. board exam Will not be able to join. This decision was taken following the demands of those students who, for some reason, wanted permission to skip the first examination and directly appear in the second examination. CBSE has made it clear that to keep the examination system fair, this rule will apply equally to everyone.

It is mandatory to take the first exam

According to CBSE it is mandatory for all students to appear in the main (first) board examination.
If a student does not appear for the examination in three or more subjects, he will not be allowed to appear for the second examination. Such students will be placed in the “Essential Repeat” category and will have to re-appear in the main examination to be held in February next year.

For whom will the second exam be held?

The Board has set out clear eligibility categories for the second board exam:

• Mark improvement in maximum three subjects
• Compartment (First or Third Chance)
• Compartment + Improvement
• Improvement of passed students by changing subjects
• That means the second exam is not a backup or option, but only for improvement or limited opportunity.

Compartment and Improvement Rules

If the student obtains compartment in the first examination, he/she will be allowed to appear in the second examination. But no relief will be given to students who miss the examination of three or more subjects. The board has also clarified that after passing class 10, students will not be able to appear for additional subjects separately.

Strict warning on rumors

Before the examination, the board has issued another important warning to beware of fake news and paper leak rumours. According to the board, several attempts were made to spread wrong information on social media in the last years. Fake question papers were shared as genuine, causing panic and tension among the students.

Don’t trust social media

CBSE has appealed to students, parents and schools not to rely on unverified information or share it further. The board says that such rumors have a negative impact on the preparation of students and increase unnecessary stress, whereas it is most important to remain calm and focused at the time of examination.

Strong arrangements for exam security

The board has assured that strong arrangements have been made to make the examination process safe and fair. Strict protocols for security of question papers are in place, the entire process is being monitored and any irregularities will take strict action. If any person spreads wrong information or tries to sabotage the examination, strict action will be taken against him as per the rules.

CBSE has a clear message that do not take the first exam lightly, because the second exam is not an option, it is just an opportunity. The board has asked the students to stay away from rumors and focus on their preparation. Get the correct information only from the official website and school.