August 7, 2025 —
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a fresh directive mandating that students of Classes 10 and 12 must maintain a minimum of 75% attendance during the 2025–26 academic session in order to be eligible for the 2026 board examinations. The notification, released this week, reinforces an existing rule that will now be enforced more strictly across all CBSE-affiliated schools.
According to the CBSE, the rule is intended to ensure that students participate regularly in academic activities and benefit fully from classroom learning. Schools have been instructed to keep detailed attendance records and submit monthly reports to the Board. Non-compliance may result in students being barred from appearing in their final board exams unless granted a valid exemption.
The Board has clarified that attendance will be calculated based on the total number of working days from the start of the academic year. Students falling short of the required attendance may apply for condonation only under exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies, death in the family, or participation in national/international sports or cultural events — all of which must be supported by valid documentation.
“Regular attendance not only helps in academic development but also improves students’ discipline and engagement,” the CBSE said in its statement. “Schools must communicate this requirement to parents and students at the beginning of the academic session and update them regularly.”
The renewed enforcement of the rule has triggered mixed reactions among students, parents, and education professionals. While many educators support the move as a step toward instilling accountability and improving academic performance, students and parents have raised concerns regarding its rigid implementation. Some argue that the policy could unfairly impact those dealing with mental health issues, prolonged illness, or other genuine difficulties.
“There needs to be flexibility in how the rule is applied. A blanket rule without adequate exemptions may increase stress among students,” said Radhika Sharma, a school counselor at a private CBSE-affiliated school in Delhi.
Over the years, CBSE’s 75% attendance rule has existed as a policy, but schools often exercised discretion in its enforcement. With the latest directive, however, the Board has made it clear that no student will be allowed to appear for board exams without meeting the attendance threshold unless formally exempted.
The circular also reminds schools that they must complete and submit a list of eligible candidates (LOC) to the Board by the stipulated deadlines, and students with attendance below the required mark should not be included without prior approval from CBSE.
As the 2025–26 academic year progresses, school authorities are expected to hold orientation sessions to raise awareness about the rule and the importance of regular attendance. Students are advised to monitor their attendance closely and reach out to school administration if they face any genuine issues that may affect their eligibility.
