In a major shift towards concept-based learning 🎯, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that Class 9 students will take Open-Book Assessments (OBAs) starting from the 2026–27 academic session.
This decision was taken in the CBSE Governing Body meeting and aligns with NEP 2020 📜 & NCFSE 2023 to reduce rote memorisation and promote critical thinking 🧠.
🔍 Why Open-Book Exams?
✅ Promote application-based learning
✅ Reduce stress of cramming 📖
✅ Encourage real-life problem-solving skills
✅ Prepare students for higher-level competitive exams
💡 NEP 2020 calls for assessments that test “understanding” rather than “memory” — OBAs are a step in that direction.
🧪 Pilot Study Findings
📅 Conducted in December 2023 for Classes 9–12
📊 Marks ranged from 12% to 47% — showing students still need training in using reference materials effectively.
👩🏫 Teachers believe with proper guidance, OBAs can greatly improve analytical abilities.
📝 How Will It Work?
📌 Subjects: Languages 🗣, Mathematics ➗, Science 🔬, Social Science 🌍
📌 Format: Part of internal exams, NOT replacing board exams
📌 Frequency: Integrated into 3 written tests per term
📌 Support: CBSE will provide sample papers & guidelines
📌 Choice: Implementation is optional for schools
📜 Throwback: OTBA (2014–17)
CBSE earlier tried Open Text-Based Assessments in Classes 9 & 11.
❌ Discontinued due to poor execution and lack of teacher readiness.
✅ New OBAs aim to fix those gaps with better planning & training.
📅 Summary Table
| 📂 Feature | 📌 Detail |
|---|---|
| 📅 Start Year | 2026–27 |
| 🎯 Target | Class 9 Internal Assessments |
| 📚 Subjects | Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Science |
| 🎓 Goal | Competency-based learning |
| 📊 Pilot Scores | 12%–47% |
| 🏫 Choice | Optional for schools |
| 🛠 Support | Sample papers, teacher training |