CBSE Exam 2025: Important Key Changes the Board Exams

Author at PW
March 06, 2025

CBSE Exam 2025, Important Key Changes the Board Exams: Will there be CBSE board exams in 2025 for class 10? Big changes are coming to the CBSE board exams in 2025! These updates will make learning fun and exams fairer for everyone. CBSE wants to help students learn better and think smarter. If you're getting ready for the 2025 exams, here’s what you need to know about these exciting changes. You will read how these updates can help you succeed. 

CBSE Board Exam 2025

In recent years, CBSE has emphasized the importance of competency-based education to align with global educational standards. The changes aim to:

  • Reduce rote learning and promote understanding-based learning.

  • Assess the practical life application of concepts through CBSE competency-based questions.

  • Ensure transparency and fairness in evaluations.

With these goals in mind, the CBSE board has revised its exam structure, question patterns, and overall approach.

Check Out: CBSE Class 10th Books

Important Key Changes the Board Exams

The implementation of these changes shows the CBSE's commitment to modernizing its examination system, which has the ultimate goal of enhancing students' overall educational results.

Internal Assessment Weightage

Internal assessments will now account for 40% of the total marks, while the board exams will constitute 60%. This change emphasizes continuous evaluation through projects, tests, and assignments, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of student performance.

Attendance Requirement

Students must attend 75% of classes during the academic year to be eligible to sit for the board exams. This rule is designed to encourage regular attendance and engagement in classes.

Reduction in Long Answer Questions

The number of long and short-answer questions will be reduced. Instead of requiring lengthy written responses, the focus will shift to assessing students' understanding of concepts, making exams more concise and focused on comprehension. The updated question paper will feature:

  • 50% objective-type questions.

  • 30% competency-based questions.

  • 20% short and long-answer questions.

This balanced structure ensures a comprehensive assessment of students’ knowledge.

Competency-Based Questions

Approximately 40% of the questions for CBSE Class 12 will be competency-based, which includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs), source-based, and case-study questions. This shift evaluates students' ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.

Special Provisions for Sports Participants

Students representing India in sports events or participating in recognized Olympiads will have access to special exams scheduled later to avoid conflicts with their competition schedules. This initiative supports students' dual commitments to academics and extracurricular activities.

Early Release of Exam Schedule

For the first time, the CBSE has released the exam timetable 86 days before the start of examinations, which is a notable improvement from previous years. This early announcement allows students more time for preparation.

Exam Schedule

The CBSE Class 10 board exams are scheduled from February 15 to March 18, 2025, while Class 12 exams will occur from February 15 to April 4, 2025. This schedule applies to over 44 lakh students across India and various international locations.

Check Out: CBSE Class 10th Sample Papers

Impact of Changes on Students

These changes can impact child education in a good way. Read below to know how it can impact students.

1. Better Preparedness for Higher Education

These reforms are tailored to help students transition seamlessly into college or university. Subjects like science, commerce, and humanities will now demand deeper conceptual clarity, giving students an edge in entrance exams and professional courses.

2. Stress on Practical Knowledge

With an increased weightage for internal assessments and competency-based questions, students will need to adopt a more practical and application-oriented study strategy. Classroom participation, project work, and regular tests will become essential for scoring well.

3. Fairer Checking 

The changes address inconsistencies in the traditional examination system. By incorporating a mix of objective, subjective, and competency-based questions, the assessment process is expected to become more comprehensive and transparent.

Prepare for the CBSE Board Exam 2025

Get ready for the CBSE Board exam 2025. Learn the patterns and master time management.

1. Understand the New Pattern

Get familiar with the revised exam structure and weightage of different sections. Practice sample papers based on the updated pattern to gain confidence in tackling CBSE competency-based questions.

2. Focus on Conceptual Clarity

Instead of memorizing answers, focus on understanding the core concepts of each subject. This will help you excel in competency-based and application-oriented questions.

3. Utilize NCERT Books and Resources

NCERT books remain the foundation for CBSE exams. Pay special attention to the exercises and examples provided in these books. Supplement your preparation with CBSE sample papers and question banks.

4. Regular Internal Assessments

Since internal assessments now carry significant weightage, stay consistent in your project work, assignments, and periodic tests. Ensure timely submissions and active participation in classroom activities.

5. Time Management

Divide your study time effectively among different subjects. Allocate extra hours for subjects that include practicals and competency-based questions.

6. Mock Tests and Practice Papers

Attempting mock tests helps you identify your weak areas and improve time management. Practice papers based on the CBSE 2025 board exam pattern will give you a realistic feel of the exam.

The CBSE board exam 2025 represents a transformative step toward creating a student-focused education system. By introducing competency-based questions, reducing rote learning, and prioritizing practical knowledge, CBSE ensures that students are well-prepared for their academic and professional journeys. With regular updates and reforms, the board aims to nurture critical thinkers and problem solvers, aligning with global educational standards.

Also Check, CBSE Class 12th Books

CBSE Board Exam FAQs

1. Will there be CBSE board exams in 2025 for Class 10?

Yes, the CBSE board exams for Class 10 will be conducted in 2025 with several new changes, including competency-based questions and reduced long-answer sections.

2. What are competency-based questions in CBSE exams?

Competency-based questions assess a student’s ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. These questions focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

3. When will the CBSE board exam date 2025 be announced?

The official exam dates for the CBSE board exam 2025 are usually announced a few months before the exams, typically in December or January.

4. How much weightage is given to internal assessments?

For the CBSE 2025 board exam, internal assessments carry 40% of the total marks, while the final exam constitutes 60%.

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