CBSE Makes 75% Attendance Mandatory for Class 10 & 12 Board Exams 2026

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.

Key Highlights of the CBSE 75% Attendance Rule:

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.

Exemptions Under Special Circumstances:

CBSE has outlined certain valid reasons under which exemptions may be considered. These include:

• Prolonged illness or medical conditions (supported by medical documents)
• Death of a parent or immediate family member
• Participation in national or international sports events
• Attendance at recognized educational, cultural, or sports competitions
• Other reasons deemed valid by the CBSE Regional Officer or school principal

In such cases, schools must submit relevant documentation to the respective CBSE Regional Office by January 15, 2026, for final consideration.

Why This Move?

CBSE officials have stated that the initiative is intended to:

• Encourage students to attend classes regularly
• Improve academic performance through consistent learning
• Prevent last-minute preparation or coaching dependency
• Instill discipline and structure in daily school life

Responsibilities of Schools:

• Schools must maintain accurate attendance records.
• Monthly attendance reports must be updated and reviewed.
• Parents should be informed regularly about their child's attendance status.
• Attendance data may be verified by CBSE authorities if needed.

CBSE - Important Deadlines:

• Attendance Cut-off Date: January 1, 2026
• Submission of Exemption Requests: On or before January 15, 2026

How Students Can Ensure Compliance:

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.