CBSE Allows Basic Maths Students in Class 10 to Take Standard Maths in Class 11 from 2025-26

In an important update for students and parents, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that students who chose Basic Maths (code 241) in Class X during the 2024–25 school year can now switch to Standard Maths (code 041) in Class XI from the 2025–26 session.

This decision gives students more flexibility in choosing their subjects and academic paths, especially for those who might have changed their minds about pursuing Maths after Class 10. 

Here’s What You Need to Know

 CBSE introduced two levels of Maths in Class 10 back in 2020: 

• Standard Maths was for students planning to study Maths at higher levels (Class 11 and 12). 
• Basic Maths was meant for those who didn’t wish to continue Maths in senior classes. 

Until now, students with Basic Maths could only take Applied Maths in Class 11. Standard Maths (041) was allowed only if they had taken Standard Maths in Class 10. 

 CBSE has now relaxed this rule for the 2025–26 session onward: 

• Students who had Basic Maths in Class 10 can now opt for Standard Maths in Class 11. 
• But schools must first check that the student has the aptitude and ability to manage the subject. 

This flexibility had been given earlier too, during the pandemic, when exceptions were made for affected students. Now, it’s an official rule again. Once students choose their subjects and schools submit them to CBSE in the List of Candidates (LOC), no further changes will be allowed. 

Why This Matters

This update gives a second chance to students who might have felt limited by their earlier choice of Basic Maths. It’s a step toward a more adaptable and student-friendly approach in education. 

CBSE has also clarified that this rule will stay in effect until a new curriculum under the National Curriculum Framework (NCF-SE) is implemented. 

Source

Official Notice by CBSE, 27 May, 2025: click here to read.

Indian Express, 31 May, 2025: CBSE allows Basic Math students to study subject in Class 11

Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per the CBSE, Ministry of Education, and Government of India.

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