New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education has released the schedule for submitting the list of candidates (LOC) for the Class X second Board examinations in 2026, a key element of the two-exam system introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to give students an additional chance to improve their performance.
Under the revised structure, students may reappear in up to three subjects in the May 2026 session. Officials said the second exam aims to ease exam-related pressure and offer flexibility to improve scores.
Principals said the option is useful for students who feel they have underperformed in major subjects. “It is too soon to know how many will opt for it, but it benefits students who believe they could have done better in subjects such as mathematics, science or social science,” said Tania Joshi, principal of The Indian School. She added that the decision should be taken thoughtfully, noting that meaningful improvements – such as from 45 to 70 or 70 to 90 – justify choosing the option, whereas marginal gains require careful assessment.
A teacher said the system is likely to be used by students dissatisfied with their marks, those seeking entry into preferred streams such as Science or Commerce and high performers wanting slight score improvements to bolster their academic profile.
The first phase of LOC submission will run from March 18 to March 31. Additional phases will open after results are declared, including a short window with a late fee. The portal will remain accessible until 11.59pm on the final day of each phase.
Eligibility is limited to students who appeared in the main Board exams and took at least three subjects. Those who have passed but wish to improve their performance can opt to reappear in up to three subjects. Those placed in the compartment category are also eligible, subject to conditions. However, students who did not appear in three or more subjects will have to wait for the next annual cycle.
