CBSE Announces New Curriculum for Classes 9 to 12 for the 2025-26 Academic Session
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the updated curriculum for Classes 9 to 12 for this academic year 2025-26. This revised syllabus brings a significant change in the examination schedule, grading system, and passing criteria. Additionally, Some new skill-based subjects have been introduced to ensure a more practical and future-ready approach to learning and better understanding.
The updated curriculum provides a well-structured roadmap for teaching and learning, helping students gain a deeper understanding of their subjects. It includes details on the syllabus, examination pattern, learning outcomes, and teaching strategies to enhance student engagement.
Schools affiliated with CBSE now have access to the complete syllabus for the new session. Students, parents, and teachers need to go through the updated curriculum and assessment guidelines carefully.
The detailed syllabus for Classes 9 to 12 is available now. Stay informed and be prepared for the changes!
Let’s take a look at the key updates and what these mean for both students and teachers.
Two Board Exams for Class 10 Students
Starting from the 2025-2026 academic year, Class 10 students will have the opportunity to appear for two board exams annually – the First in February and the other in April. The initiative aims to give students a second chance to improve their scores in the same academic year.
However, it is important to note that this policy is still in the draft stage and the final proposal is yet to be confirmed. Class 12 board exams will be held once a year, and the 2026 exams will begin from February 17.
Revised Grading System for Class 10 and 12
CBSE is implementing a new 9-point grading system for both class 10th and class 12th board exams. Every 1/8th of the students who pass will be allotted a grade slot.
| Grade | Octile |
|---|---|
| A-1 | Top 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| A-2 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| B-1 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| B-2 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| C-1 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| C-2 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| D-1 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| D-2 | Next 1/8th of the passed candidates |
| E* | Essential Repeat |
Under this system, the marks obtained in the exams will be converted into grades more effectively, allowing for a more nuanced assessment of students’ performance. It replaces the previous five-point grading scale and aims to provide a clear picture of students’ understanding and abilities.
Passing Criteria for Class 10
Students must secure at least 33% marks in each subject to pass the Class 10 board exam.
In cases where a student fails in a core subject such as Science, Mathematics, Social Science, or Language paper but passes in a skill-based or optional language subject, the failed subject may be substituted with the passed skill or language subject for calculating the result.
For example, if a student fails to secure the required marks in Mathematics but passes in a skill-based subject, the marks in the skill-based subject will replace those in Mathematics.
Introduction of Skill-Based Subjects in Class 10
CBSE is giving more emphasis on skill-based education by including subjects like Computer Applications (Code 165), Information Technology (Code 402), and Artificial Intelligence (Code 417) for Class 10 students.
Additionally, students are required to choose either one language from English or Hindi during Classes 9 and 10
New Skill Electives for Class 12
In line with the emerging educational landscape, CBSE has introduced four new skills electives for Class 12 students:
- Land Transport Associate
- Electronics and Hardware
- Physical Activity Instructor
- Design Thinking and Innovation
These additions aim to equip students with practical skills relevant to various industries.
Use of Calculators in Class 12 Accountancy Exam
To help students manage complex financial calculations, CBSE will allow the use of basic, non-programmable calculators during Class 12 accountancy board exams starting from the 2025-26 academic session.
New teaching methods focus on real-world skills
The latest notification from CBSE addressed to heads of all affiliated schools states that the board is emphasizing changing the way students learn by promoting practical and inquiry-based learning.
Schools will now have to adopt the following:
- Project-based learning: Students will work on real-life problems instead of just reading about them.
- Inquiry-based learning: Instead of memorizing, students will be encouraged to ask questions and seek answers.
- Tech-enabled learning: AI tools, digital resources, and online platforms will become a bigger part of classroom teaching.
- Collaborative lesson planning: Teachers will dynamically adapt their methods to meet the emerging needs of students.
The aim is to move away from rote learning to a focus on understanding, problem solving, and critical thinking.
Read More: CBSE Board Class 10 Notes – Click Here
Read More: CBSE Board Class 12 Notes – Click Here
Assessment Shifted to Competency-Based Assessment
CBSE is also changing the way students are assessed. Exams will now focus more on actual understanding and application of knowledge rather than just testing memory. Schools will create assessments that measure:
- Critical thinking
- Analytical skills
- Conceptual clarity
- Practical application of knowledge
This change aims to better prepare students for higher studies and careers by making education more meaningful.