Central Board of Secondary Education clarifies Class 12 improvement exam rules for 2026 board students

As CBSE rolls out examination reforms for the 2026 academic year, students and parents — especially in Class 12 — continue to seek clarity on improvement exams, eligibility and number of attempts. To address these concerns, CBSE Controller of Examinations Sanyam Bharadwaj has explained the options available to candidates.

How can Class 12 students improve their percentage?

CBSE allows students to enhance their Class 12 performance through two routes:

• Supplementary examination (July 2026):
  Students can appear for improvement in only one subject through the supplementary exam scheduled for 15 July 2026.
  

• Next year’s main board examination (February 2027):
  If a student wishes to improve marks in more than one subject, they must appear in the full board examination conducted the following year.
  

Can Class 12 students take board exams twice in one year?

No. CBSE has clarified that the two-board-exam system applies only to Class 10 students, not Class 12. Therefore, Class 12 candidates cannot attempt two board examinations in the same academic year.

What about improvement exams for Class 10?

Class 10 students will have greater flexibility. They can register for a second examination as an improvement attempt:

• Within 10 days after the main exams (based on expected performance)
  

• Or after results are declared (based on actual marks)
  

However, only those who submit the application form and pay the required fee will be allowed to appear.

When will improvement exam forms be released?

For Class 12, improvement and compartment exam registrations will begin after results are declared in May 2026, along with a detailed CBSE circular explaining the application process.

Does CBSE calculate percentages?

CBSE clarified it does not calculate or declare overall percentage. The marksheet shows subject-wise marks only. Universities and employers calculate percentages according to their own admission or recruitment criteria.

With reforms underway, the board has reiterated that improvement opportunities for Class 12 remain limited compared to Class 10. Students are advised to closely follow official CBSE notifications to avoid missing important deadlines.