gave Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued two important circulars reinforcing the principles of examination integrity and student protection ahead of the ongoing and upcoming board proceedings. In the first directive, the board has strictly prohibited the distribution or misuse of question papers before the completion of the examinations, and has emphasized the need to maintain confidentiality at all stages. In a separate circular, the CBSE has warned schools against collecting any unauthorized fee while submitting the List of Candidates (LoC) for the Class 10 Second Board examination. The board has warned that violation in both cases will invite strict disciplinary action.
Strict protocol to protect confidentiality of question paper
CBSE has reiterated that question papers should be handled with utmost confidentiality and discipline. Schools and examination centers are expressly instructed not to share, display or distribute the question papers to any person under any circumstances before the end of the examination.Unused question papers should be carefully repackaged and stored immediately after distribution begins. The board has also banned sharing the question papers with subject teachers, keeping them in school libraries or using them for any internal reference. CBSE clarified that all question papers will be officially uploaded online once the exams are over, removing the need for local retention.The Board has emphasized that the number of question papers distributed and repackaged later should match the number provided to enhance accountability. Superintendents of centers are directed to sensitize all their staff members on the importance of adhering to these requirements.
No additional charges while submitting LOC for Class X Sec Exam.
In its second circular, the CBSE addressed complaints regarding schools charging extra fees during the LoC submission process for the Class X Second Board examination.The board clarified that the LoC process is divided into three phases. The first stage is purely data collection, where schools are required to submit candidate details at no charge. Only at later stages—where students finalize their candidature and essays—are fixed examination fees applicable.CBSE has taken serious notice of reports that some schools are demanding three months tuition fee at the time of submission of LOC. The board has categorically termed this practice as a violation of its rules and directed the schools to stop such practices immediately.It further stressed that the schools should not charge any fee more than the officially prescribed examination fee and strictly follow the CBSE guidelines. Any deviation will be viewed seriously and disciplinary action may be taken.
Zero tolerance for violations has been confirmed by CBSE.
Through these circulars, CBSE has reaffirmed its zero tolerance policy towards examination corruption and financial irregularities. The board has urged schools and examination centers to ensure transparency, accountability and fairness in all aspects to protect the interests of students and the examination system.
