Central Board of Secondary Education Postpones Class 10 and 12 Exams in Middle East Amid Regional Tensions

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has postponed the Class 10 and Class 12 Board examinations scheduled for March 2, 2026, for students studying in select Middle Eastern countries, citing escalating regional tensions and safety concerns.

The decision applies to CBSE-affiliated schools located in Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Thousands of Indian students enrolled in CBSE schools across these nations are expected to be affected by the postponement.

Exams Deferred Over Security Concerns

In an official communication issued on Monday, CBSE stated that the examinations scheduled for March 2 will be postponed “until further notice” due to the prevailing situation in parts of the Middle East. The Board underlined that the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and examination staff remain its top priority.

While CBSE did not elaborate on specific incidents, the move follows reports of heightened instability and precautionary restrictions in certain areas. The Board clarified that the postponement is a preventive measure to avoid any risk to candidates.

Review on March 3

CBSE further informed that it will review the situation on March 3 before taking a call on examinations scheduled from March 5 onwards. Revised dates for the postponed papers will be announced after assessing ground conditions and in consultation with Indian missions and local authorities.

Students have been advised to remain in close contact with their respective schools and monitor updates on the official CBSE website. The Board has cautioned against relying on unverified social media reports.

Academic Planning and Student Preparedness

CBSE officials indicated that adequate time will be provided to students once fresh dates are announced to ensure fair preparation. Schools have also been instructed to support students academically and emotionally during the uncertainty.

The development highlights the logistical challenges faced by Indian education boards in conducting overseas examinations amid geopolitical tensions, particularly in regions with a significant Indian diaspora population.