NEW DELHI: Students currently in Class IX will have five compulsory papers in their CBSE Class X board examinations in 2028, with the option of taking an additional skill paper that can help them clear the examination even if they fail in mathematics, science or social science. Clarifying the examination structure well in advance, CBSE on Thursday outlined two pathways for vocational education, allowing students to choose between school-based assessment and a board examination leading to a nationally recognised skill certification.The clarification applies specifically to students studying in Class IX in 2026-27, who will appear for their Class X board examinations in 2028. It does not affect the current Class X batch.“The circular is intended to provide clarity to the current batch of Class IX students as they progress to Class X. Our foremost priority is to safeguard students’ interests by clearly communicating the academic and examination-related provisions well in advance. The emphasis is on encouraging students to focus on meaningful learning rather than solely the examinations,” CBSE sources said.Under the scheme, the five compulsory board-exam subjects will be two languages, mathematics, science and social science. Students will, however, study nine compulsory curricular subjects, including a third language, art education, physical education and well-being, and vocational education.While vocational education remains compulsory, students can choose between Kaushal Vikas and any one of 22 notified skill subjects.Those opting for Kaushal Vikas will undergo school-based internal assessment and receive a school certificate on securing at least 33% marks. They will not be required to appear for a board examination in the subject.Alternatively, students can opt for any of the 22 skill subjects, including artificial intelligence, data science, information technology, financial markets, healthcare and design thinking. These will require a Class X board examination, with successful students receiving certification under the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF).
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The distinction assumes significance because students opting for a board-examined skill subject will have an additional safeguard. If they fail in any one of mathematics, science or social science but pass their skill subject, the latter can replace the failed subject while computing their Class X result. This benefit will not be available to those choosing Kaushal Vikas.The circular also clarifies that the specified interdisciplinary components and CT&AI modules will not form part of the prescribed scheme for this particular batch, in keeping with the implementation schedule. This does not amount to discontinuation of CBSE’s broader AI education initiative.Students will continue to have options for advanced mathematics, advanced science and other additional subjects under the prescribed examination provisions.
