CBSE Makes 75% Attendance and Internal Exams Mandatory for Results

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has emphasised that internal assessments are crucial for student evaluations. Without regular school attendance, these assessments cannot be conducted. On Monday, the board noted that if a student's internal assessment records are missing, their results cannot be declared. Additionally, students must maintain at least 75% attendance, as highlighted in an August circular to schools.

Internal assessments form a mandatory part of the evaluation process under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This is a two-year process, and students who do not attend school regularly cannot be assessed internally. Consequently, their results will not be declared, and they will fall into the 'Essential Repeat Category,' according to CBSE.

Importance of Internal Assessments

Students placed in the 'Essential Repeat Category' have failed to clear board exams and cannot take compartment exams if they fail more than two subjects in Class X or one subject in Class XII. They must retake the board exams after a year to pass Class X or XII. The CBSE clarified that Classes X and XII are two-year programmes involving Classes IX and X, and Classes XI and XII.

Jaidev Ghosh, principal of South Point High School, stated that this ensures students cannot skip classes or internal exams and then appear for board exams suddenly. Internal exams contribute to final term marks in many schools. "The final term reflects scores from tests throughout the year," said Satabdi Bhattacharjee, principal of The Newtown School.

Continuous Evaluation Process

At South Point, three examinations are conducted in Class X with weightage given to each for final marks calculation. Ghosh mentioned that continuous evaluation is integral to CBSE's curriculum, preparing students for board exams through multiple tests.

In CBSE schools, students must pass both theory and practical exams separately to clear board exams. Madhumita Sengupta, principal of BDM International, explained that internal assessments include written exams by schools, projects throughout the year, and daily activities like homework.

Ensuring Regular Attendance

The CBSE provides guidelines for schools to implement regulations ensuring regular student attendance and participation in daily learning processes. Bhattacharjee noted that the board emphasises schooling, attendance, and experiential learning significantly.

This approach aims to ensure students engage consistently with their education rather than sporadically attending classes or relying solely on final examinations for assessment.