CBSE Cancels Class 12 Board Exams 2026 in Seven Middle East Countries

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has cancelled the Class 12 Board Examinations 2026 scheduled in several Middle East countries due to the current regional situation and logistical challenges in conducting the exams safely. The decision affects students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools in seven countries across the Gulf region, where the exams were planned between March 16 and April 10, 2026.

According to the official circular issued on March 15, 2026, the board reviewed the feasibility of conducting the exams after receiving inputs from schools and authorities in the region. Based on this review, CBSE decided to cancel all scheduled and previously postponed Class XII examinations in the affected countries. The board has also stated that the method for declaring results for these students will be announced later.

CBSE Cancels Class 12 Board Exams 2026 in Seven Middle East Countries

The Central Board of Secondary Education has officially cancelled the CBSE Class 12 Board Examinations 2026 in several Middle East nations where thousands of Indian students study in affiliated schools.

The affected countries include:

• Bahrain
• Iran
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Students in these countries were scheduled to appear for board exams between March 16 and April 10, 2026. However, after reviewing the situation and considering requests from schools and local authorities, the board determined that conducting examinations would not be feasible at this time.

CBSE Official Circular Details

In its circular dated March 15, 2026, CBSE stated that the decision comes after reviewing multiple earlier notices issued on March 1, March 3, March 5, March 7, and March 9, 2026, which had already postponed certain examinations.

Key decisions announced by the board include:

All Class 12 board examinations scheduled between March 16 and April 10, 2026, stand cancelled for students in the affected countries.

Previously postponed exams mentioned in earlier CBSE circulars will also remain cancelled.

The process for declaring results for students in these countries will be announced separately by CBSE.

What This Means for Students

Thousands of students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools across the Gulf region were preparing for the Class 12 board exams. With the cancellation now confirmed, students will not appear for the remaining examinations.

CBSE has clarified that it will notify the evaluation and result declaration process at a later stage. This may include alternative assessment methods or other evaluation systems to ensure students receive their final results without delays.

Possible Evaluation Methods

Although CBSE has not yet announced the final assessment process, the board may consider several options, such as:

• Internal assessments and school records
• Performance in practical examinations
• Previous academic performance
• Moderation policies for fairness

A final decision will be communicated through an official CBSE notification.

Importance of the Decision

The cancellation reflects CBSE's priority to ensure student safety and fair evaluation amid challenging circumstances in the region. It also ensures that students do not face uncertainty regarding exam schedules or travel difficulties while appearing for board examinations.

Students and schools have been advised to regularly check CBSE's official website and circulars for updates regarding the result declaration process and further instructions.