The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a mandatory 75% attendance requirement for students appearing in the Class 10 and Class 12 Board Exams in 2026.

This rule applies to all affiliated schools across India and abroad. Students failing to meet the attendance criteria will not be allowed to sit for the final board examinations unless their absence is justified under exceptional circumstances.
In a significant update ahead of the 2026 board exams, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially mandated a minimum of 75% attendance for students of Classes 10 and 12 to be eligible to appear in the final board examinations. This move aims to enhance classroom engagement, discipline, and ensure regular academic progress among students.
Effective from: Academic year 2025-26 for 2026 board exams.
Applicable to: All CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad.
Minimum attendance: 75% in all subjects combined.
Eligibility: Only students meeting this attendance mark by January 1, 2026 will be allowed to sit for board exams.
CBSE has outlined certain valid reasons under which exemptions may be considered. These include:
In such cases, schools must submit relevant documentation to the respective CBSE Regional Office by January 15, 2026, for final consideration.
CBSE officials have stated that the initiative is intended to:
Attend school regularly and avoid unnecessary absences.
Inform the school in advance of any planned leave.
Submit medical or other certificates promptly when required.
Monitor attendance reports shared by the school.