CBSE Board Exam 2026: Class 12 Answer Sheets to Be Checked Digitally with On-Screen Marking

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a major change in the evaluation system for the 2026 board exams. Starting next year, Class 12 answer sheets will be checked using On-Screen Marking (OSM).

Under this system, handwritten answer sheets will be scanned and digitally evaluated on a computer screen. CBSE officials say this move will help reduce calculation errors, speed up the evaluation process, and ensure greater transparency in marking. Teachers will also be able to check papers from their schools, eliminating the need to carry physical answer sheets.

On-Screen Marking Introduced for Class 12 Board Exams

In a significant move, the CBSE will implement On-Screen Marking (OSM) for the evaluation of Class 12 answer sheets in 2026. Under this system, teachers will evaluate handwritten answer sheets digitally scanned on a computer screen instead of manually checking physical copies.

CBSE officials believe that this digital evaluation method will have several benefits, including:

1. Reduction in calculation and totaling errors
2. Faster evaluation and earlier declaration of results
3. Improved transparency and uniformity in marking
4. Allowing teachers to evaluate answer sheets from their schools without carrying physical copies

To ensure smooth implementation, CBSE will conduct training workshops and trial runs for teachers. Schools have also been instructed to upgrade their technical infrastructure with proper computer labs, stable internet connections, and uninterrupted power supply.

Class 10 evaluation will continue manually

While Class 12 evaluation will shift to digital mode, CBSE has decided to continue manual evaluation for Class 10 board exams in 2026. Officials said this phased rollout will help avoid technical challenges and give schools enough time to adapt to the new system.

Updated Question Paper Pattern under NEP 2020

CBSE has aligned its paper pattern with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which focuses on conceptual understanding rather than rote learning. The question paper will feature competency-based, objective, and descriptive questions that encourage students to think analytically and apply concepts to real-life scenarios.

CBSE Board Exam 2026 Dates and Schedule

CBSE Board Exams 2026 will begin on February 17, 2026.

• Class 10 exams will run until March 11, 2026.
• Class 12 exams will end on April 10, 2026.

According to CBSE guidelines, practical exams have already been conducted in January and February.

Reactions from Schools and Educators

Many school principals and teachers have welcomed the digital evaluation system, calling it a positive step towards fair and error-free assessment. However, some administrators have expressed concern about the need for proper technical infrastructure and extensive training for teachers to conduct it smoothly.

CBSE Board Exam 2026: Important Guidance for Students

With changes in both evaluation methods and question patterns, students should adopt smart preparation strategies. Experts advise:

• Write answers clearly and structurally.
• Revise important topics regularly.
• Practice mock tests and sample papers for time management.
• Maintain a healthy routine to reduce exam stress.

CBSE's move to digital evaluation is a major change in India's education system. The introduction of on-screen marking and competency-based question papers for Class 12 demonstrates the board's commitment to modernizing assessment methods. Students who focus on concept-based learning and effective exam strategies will be better prepared to succeed in the CBSE Board Exams 2026.

Read More: CBSE Board Exams 2026: Class 10, 12 Admit Cards to Be Released Soon