The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that private candidates appearing for Class 10 and Class 12 board exams will no longer have the option to take an additional subject from 2026 onwards. This change is part of CBSE’s revised examination guidelines.
Until now, private students could opt for one additional subject along with the main subjects, which often helped them improve their overall score or explore an extra academic area. With the new rule, candidates will be required to appear only in the prescribed subjects as per their registration.
CBSE states that the decision aims to streamline the exam process and bring uniformity across different categories of students. Schools and coaching institutes have been informed to guide students accordingly for upcoming exam sessions.
Key highlights:
- CBSE ends additional subject option for private students from 2026
- Rule applies to both Class 10 and Class 12 board exams
- Students can now appear only in prescribed subjects
- Decision taken to maintain uniformity in exam structure
For detailed circulars and official updates, visit CBSE website and check the revised exam guidelines for private candidates.