The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has implemented a new 40:60 marking scheme for private Class 12 students in Gulf countries. This policy took effect on June 21, 2026 . The decision addresses security concerns that led to the cancellation of several exam papers in seven West Asian nations.
New Assessment Formula
This revised assessment applies only to private Class 12 candidates residing in affected Gulf countries. The formula calculates marks for subjects where exams were canceled due to regional security issues. Marks will be determined by a combination of Class 10 and Class 12 performance.
How Marks Are Calculated
The 40:60 ratio weighs two components for theory marks. Marks for canceled subjects will be computed using the following breakdown:
40% Weightage: Based on the student's Class 10 board examination results. CBSE calculates this by averaging the theory marks from the student's best three subjects in Class 10.
60% Weightage: Derived from the theory marks of the student's most recent Class 12 board examination attempt. This applies to subjects for which the student previously took the exam.
For subjects where examinations were successfully completed before the cancellations, scores will be based on actual performance.
Eligibility Criteria
This new formula is specifically for a defined group of students. Eligibility requires meeting all these conditions:
- Private Candidates: Students must be registered as private candidates. This includes those taking compartmental exams, seeking performance improvement, or enrolled in distance learning programs. Normal school students are excluded.
- Residing in Gulf Countries: Students must live and be registered at exam centers in one of the affected West Asia/Gulf countries. These nations include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Iran.
- Class 12 Students: The assessment formula is designed exclusively for Class 12 board examinations.
- Cancelled Subject Papers: The formula applies only to subjects whose papers were canceled due to regional security concerns.
Handling Dissatisfaction with Results
Students have the option to refuse marks awarded under the 40:60 formula. Those dissatisfied can choose to appear for the next scheduled public board examination cycle. Scores from a retaken exam will supersede the marks calculated by the new formula.
Computed results will be uploaded to students' DigiLocker accounts. Students can opt to decline these computed scores and sit for the examination later.
