The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is introducing a new dual-examination system for Class 10 students starting in 2026. Understandably, this has raised a lot of questions: Can you skip the first exam and go straight to the second? What happens if you fall sick?
CBSE’s recent notification clears up the confusion and it’s important for both students and parents to take note.
CBSE 2026 Class 10 First Board Exam is Mandatory
CBSE has clearly stated that all Class 10 students must appear mandatorily in the first Board examination 2026. The second exam is not a substitute, it’s primarily meant for improvement or passing in special cases.
What Happens If You Miss the CBSE 2026 Class 10 First Board Exam?
Missing the first exam isn’t without consequences. Here’s what you need to know:
- Students who do not appear for three or more subjects in the first exam cannot appear for the second exam.
- Such students will be classified under the ‘Essential Repeat’ category.
- They will have to wait until the next main examination cycle (February of the following year) to attempt the exams again.
In short, skipping the first session can set you back by an entire year.
Who Can Take the CBSE 2026 Class 10 Second Board Exam?
The CBSE 2026 Class 10 second examination is designed only for certain cases, including:
| Category | Who It’s For |
| Improvement | Students who passed the first exam but want to improve scores in up to three main subjects (Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and languages). |
| Compartment | Students who were placed in the ‘Compartment’ category in the first exam. |
| Replacement | Students who passed via subject replacement. |
| Mixed Cases | A combination of Improvement and Compartment students is also allowed. |
Important: Stand-alone or additional subjects cannot be taken during the second exam after passing Class 10.
Final Clarification from CBSE
CBSE will not consider individual requests to skip the first exam. The policy ensures that students treat the first assessment seriously and view the second exam as a safety net and not a primary attempt.
The key takeaway? Focus on the first Board exam as your main goal. Prepare well, and use the second exam only to improve or recover if needed.
Source
Official Notice by CBSE, 14 February, 2026: click here to read.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per CBSE, Education Ministry, and Government of India.
