10 effective tips to begin preparing for the 2026 CBSE biannual exams

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is ushering in a landmark change in the way Class 10 board examinations will be conducted, starting 2026. In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, students will now appear for the board exams twice a year, once in February (main) and again in May (optional improvement).

While the first attempt will be mandatory, the second will serve as a safety net for those seeking better scores or who couldn’t perform optimally the first time. Students will retain the best score out of the two attempts.This is not merely an administrative reform; it signals a paradigm shift in how academic preparedness, stress, and performance are perceived. No longer bound to a ‘single-shot’ high-stakes examination, students are now afforded the flexibility to improve without fear of penalty.But this freedom also demands strategy. With two exam windows and no change in syllabus, students must now plan more efficiently, balancing internal assessments, full syllabus coverage, and mental resilience. Below are 10 effective tips to help students navigate the new structure with clarity and confidence.

Treat the first attempt as the final one

Though the second exam offers a chance to improve, students must not fall into the trap of complacency. Prepare for the February exam as if it’s the only one.

This ensures serious engagement and avoids a stressful crunch before the May window.

Build a year-long study calendar

The biannual model calls for long-term planning. Break down the academic year into three phases:

Use digital calendars or planners to track subjects, syllabus completion, and mock exam schedules.

Leverage internal assessment early

Internal assessments will be conducted only once—prior to the first exam. Use this phase to score well and reduce pressure from the board exam component.

Prioritise projects, practicals, and school evaluations with the seriousness they deserve.

Simulate exam conditions at home

With both phases covering the entire syllabus, your retention must be robust. Begin taking full-length timed mock papers by December. Simulating the exam environment builds stamina, reduces anxiety, and sharpens time management.

Identify and catalogue weak areas

After the February exam, analyse your performance even before results are out. Which chapters caused stress? What topics did you skip under pressure? Maintain a “second chance file” to track mistakes and create a targeted plan for the May exam, if needed.

Use the gap for strategic correction, not repetition

If you plan to attempt the May improvement exam, do not redo everything. Focus on the two or three subjects where you seek to improve. Employ micro-revision techniques, solve past papers, and work on the specific question types that caused trouble earlier.

Maintain academic consistency post-exam

Since provisional Class XI admissions will be based on the February results, many students might slack off after the first exam. Avoid this. The May exam can impact final certificates and subject eligibility in senior secondary classes.

Continue light review sessions even if you're not attempting the second exam.

Mind the mental health curve

Having two exam windows can feel like a never-ending loop. Build mental wellness into your routine—short breaks, tech-free hours, regular sleep, and peer discussions. View the new structure as a chance to grow, not a burden to bear.

Seek clarity on special provisions (If applicable)

Winter-bound school students, sportspersons with overlapping events, and Children With Special Needs (CWSN) should proactively engage with their school authorities to determine their eligibility and optimal exam window. This can affect planning significantly.

Stay updated and stay connected

Policy changes evolve. Keep an eye on CBSE circulars, school notices, and verified education portals. Discuss the changes in school forums or online student groups. An informed student is a confident student.