CBSE sticks to 75% attendance for Class 10, 12 board exam 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has reasserted that 75% attendance is mandatory to appear for the CBSE board 2025-26 exams. The CBSE board offers 25% relaxation in cases of medical emergencies, participation in national or international sports events, and other serious reasons, if supported by the necessary documents.

According to the official CBSE notice, no change in attendance records will be allowed once the school has submitted the shortage of attendance cases to CBSE.

The board has also issued a standard operating procedure (SOPs) for condoning the shortage of attendance and a proforma to be used when submitting cases for condonation.

"CBSE had previously issued notice wherein it was directed to all schools to adhere to Rules 13 and 14 of the CBSE Examination bye laws strictly regarding student attendance for Class 10 and 12 board examinations 2024-2025," the CBSE notice read.

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CBSE: Guidelines for schools

The CBSE board has directed schools to ensure all the guidelines are fulfilled.

Mandatory 75% attendance: All students and parents should be aware of the 75% attendance requirement. Students should apply for leave with proper documentation. Leaves taken without any written request will be considered unauthorized absence from the school.

Leave procedures: In case of medical emergencies, students have to submit a leave application with valid medical documentation immediately after availing the leave. For other reasons, students have to inform the school of their absence only in writing.

Attendance records: Schools have to regularly monitor and maintain accurate attendance records. All the attendance registers have to be updated daily, duly signed by the class teacher and competent authority, and be readily available for inspection.

Communication with parents: In case a student frequently misses school or fails to meet the attendance requirement, the school should inform the parents in writing, stressing the importance of regular attendance. Schools are advised to keep a record of communication safely.

CBSE surprise inspections: Surprise inspections may be conducted to verify schools' attendance records. If any discrepancies are found, strict action, including student disqualification including school disaffiliation, will be followed.