5 Compulsory Subjects Optional Skill Paper as Safety Net: CBSE Scheme for Class 10 Exams in 2028

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CBSE on Thursday (October 29, 2026) finalized the structure of its Class 10 board exams in 2028, where students will have five compulsory subjects with an option of an additional written test that can help them crack the exam even if they fail in maths, science or social science.

The council also clarified that CT and AI interdisciplinary areas and modules will not be included in its curriculum.

The clarification specifically applies to students studying in class 9 in 2026-27 who will appear for their class 10 board examination in 2028. It does not affect the current 10th grade group.

“To align the introduction of this curricular area with the implementation plan, the subject ‘Individuals in Society’ and ‘CT and AI Modules’ in class 9 (2026-27) and the subject ‘Environmental Education’ in class 10 (2027-28) will not be part of the curriculum for these groups of secondary schools (A Praggcade MS Education (CBSE) principal) said in a communication to school principals.

“Vocational education will continue to be a compulsory subject of study for Class 10 (2028 batch) students. To fulfill this requirement, students can opt for either ‘Kaushal Vikas’ subject or any of the 22 skill subjects notified by the board,” she said.

The CBSE has clarified the exam structure and outlined two pathways for vocational education, allowing students to choose between a school-based assessment and a board exam leading to a nationally recognized skill certification.

According to board sources, the circular is meant to clarify the current batch of Class 9 students as they progress to Class 10.

“Our top priority is to protect students’ interests by clearly communicating academic and examination provisions well in advance. The emphasis is on encouraging students to focus on meaningful learning rather than just exams,” the source said.

Under this programme, the five compulsory examination subjects will be two languages, mathematics, natural sciences and social sciences.

However, students will study nine compulsory curricular subjects including Third Language, Art, Physical Education and Physical Education and Vocational Education.

While vocational education remains compulsory, students can choose between ‘Kaushal Vikas’ and any of the 22 skill subjects announced, including artificial intelligence, data science, information technology, financial markets, healthcare and design thinking. These will require a Class 10 board exam, with successful students receiving National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) certification.

“Students opting for any of the 22 skill subjects have to appear in the board examination in the relevant skill subject in class 10 (2027-28). The marks and marks for that skill subject will be reflected in the mark sheet issued by the board as per existing practice.”

“The NSQF certificate will also be awarded to the student for passing the board examination in the skill subject offered,” CBSE said.

Those who opt for ‘Kaushal Vikas’ will undergo the school’s internal assessment and receive a school certificate for securing at least 33% marks. They will not be required to appear for the subject board examination.

Published – 29 October 2026 21:20 IST