In a significant move aimed at improving classroom engagement and student participation, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it mandatory for students to maintain a minimum of 75% attendance to be eligible for appearing in the 2026 board examinations.
🔍 What Does This Mean?
From the academic year 2025–26, students of Class 10 and 12 will not be allowed to appear for board exams unless they have at least 75% attendance in their respective schools. This rule applies across all CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad.
📌 Why Has CBSE Taken This Step?
CBSE has observed a concerning trend in declining classroom attendance, especially post-pandemic. The move is intended to:
- Encourage regular school attendance
- Improve academic performance through consistent learning
- Curb over-reliance on coaching institutes and self-study
🏫 Who Will Be Affected?
All students appearing for the Class 10 and Class 12 board exams in 2026 will be bound by this rule. It will be applicable for the entire academic session and not just one term.
❗ Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes, CBSE will consider genuine medical reasons, participation in sports at national/international levels, NCC camps, and public performances with prior school permission. However, proof and documentation must be submitted and verified by the school and CBSE regional office.
📝 What Should Students Do Now?
- Attend classes regularly: Avoid unnecessary absences.
- Track your attendance: Most schools maintain attendance digitally.
- Submit leave applications formally for genuine reasons.
- Avoid skipping school for coaching or other private tuitions.
📣 What Schools Need to Do:
- Inform students and parents about this mandate immediately.
- Monitor and report attendance consistently.
- Alert parents if a student’s attendance drops below 85%.
- Submit detailed reports to CBSE when applying for condonation of shortage of attendance.