The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce open-book exams for Class 9 students from the 2026-27 academic session. The decision follows a pilot study conducted in 2023-24, which showed strong teacher support despite challenges in student performance.
- Conducted for Classes 9 to 12.
- Student scores ranged from 12% to 47%.
- Teachers supported the move, citing its potential to improve critical thinking.
- Students faced difficulty in using reference materials and understanding interdisciplinary concepts.
What is an Open-Book Exam?
As per the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, an open-book exam allows students to use textbooks, class notes, or library resources while answering questions.
These exams:
- Focus on the application of knowledge, not just memory.
Encourage analytical and problem-solving skills. - Reduce dependence on rote learning.
Implementation Plan
- Open-book assessments will be a part of three pen-paper tests per term.
- Subjects covered: Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Science.
- CBSE will prepare standardised sample papers to maintain question quality.
- The framework will be advisory, not mandatory, for schools.
Also Read: Time Management in Competitive Exams
Why This Move Matters
- Encourages conceptual understanding.
- Reduces exam stress by testing application, not recall.
- Prepares students for real-world problem-solving.
Past Experience
CBSE had earlier tried Open Text-Based Assessment (OTBA) in 2014 for Classes 9 and 11. However, it was discontinued in 2017-18 as it failed to improve critical thinking. With the 2026-27 rollout, CBSE aims to address past challenges by providing better guidelines and teacher training, ensuring open-book exams become a meaningful part of school assessments.
