Special Assessment for 2021-22 Board Exams Announced by CBSE

The CBSE earlier had scheduled the Class 10^th and 12^th examinations for the academic session of 2020-21, in May. But owing to the pandemic, they were then required to cancel the examinations altogether. In recent developments, a special assessment criterion has come into force for the academic session of 2021-22.

Similar to last year, the syllabus was rationalized and further details in regards to it are expected to be shared later this month. Taking into consideration the upheavals the education sector has faced in light of the pandemic; considerations over a substitute medium of learning, objective and conduct of board exams for 2021-22 needed to be looked at if the scenario continues to be unfeasible.

The CBSE has curated 4 examination scenarios, depending on the COVID situation. In the academic session of 2021-22, there will be 2 terms each covering 50% syllabus that enables a systematic approach to interlink topics. Examinations will then be conducted at the term-end, based on the divided syllabus. The expected 1^st Term exams are to be scheduled between November-December, whilst that of the 2^nd Term is expected to be held between March-April.

If the COVID scenario improves and schools are permitted to open their doors, the board is seeking to conduct Term 1 and 2 exams at the school itself, with the theory marks, being equally distributed amongst the exams. However, if home learning continues for the entire academic year, and both exams are conducted from home, results will be calculated based on internal assessments, projects and theory scores. These will be subject to certain moderation measures. In case, if either one of the terms is conducted from home, marks of exams at school will be increased to adjust results.

Before arriving at this decision, the board took into parley government and private schools. It is during these talks that they thought it was best to rationalize the syllabus since classes are currently being held online. As per guidelines and Moderation Policies, attempts for credible and valid internal assessments, practical’s, project work will be proclaimed to ensure that students can secure legitimate scores.