The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that students in Class 10 and 12 are required to maintain a minimum attendance of 75 percent to qualify for the board examinations in 2026.
CBSE has stated that a 25 percent relaxation is permissible in instances of medical emergencies, participation in national or international sports events, and other significant reasons. However, students in such situations must provide appropriate supporting documents or records.
The board has instructed schools to:
- Notify students and parents regarding the compulsory 75 percent attendance requirement and the possible repercussions of failing to meet this standard. Any student who is absent due to medical or other reasons must submit a leave application to the school with the necessary medical and other documentation at the time of taking leave. Absence without a written request will be deemed unauthorized.
- In the event of medical emergencies, students are required to submit a leave application along with valid medical documentation immediately following their leave. For other reasons, students must inform the school of their absence with a valid reason in writing. If CBSE determines that students are absent without proper leave records, they may be classified as non-attending or dummy candidates.
- Schools are required to consistently monitor and accurately maintain attendance records. Attendance registers should be updated on a daily basis, signed by the class teacher and the appropriate authority of the school.
- If a student frequently misses school or does not meet the attendance requirement, the school must notify the parents in writing.
- The CBSE may carry out surprise inspections to verify student attendance records. During these inspections, if it is discovered that the records are incomplete, the school may face severe consequences, including disaffiliation.
CBSE has indicated that once the cases of attendance shortages have been submitted by schools, no modifications will be permitted. It was noted that consistent attendance is crucial for fulfilling the board’s examination criteria and for nurturing responsible and well-rounded individuals.
