The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has unveiled a significant reform aimed at providing greater flexibility to students. In a major policy shift, the council will now allow students to appear for improvement tests in at least three subjects for both the ICSE (Class X) and ISC (Class XII) examinations. This marks an increase from the previous limit of two subjects.
Key Announcements at Anglo-Indian Schools Conference
Chief Executive and Secretary Joseph Emmanuel made the pivotal announcement on Monday. He was speaking at the 103rd annual conference of the Association of Heads of Anglo-Indian Schools, held at La Martiniere for Girls' School in Kolkata. Emmanuel outlined a series of progressive reforms the council is implementing for the benefit of students.
In his address, he confirmed the immediate change and hinted at a further expansion. "The Council is in the process of various exam reforms for this year and for 2027," Emmanuel stated. "Examinees for both ICSE and ISC will have the opportunity to appear for three subjects for the improvement test, which was two until last year." He also indicated that by 2027, students are likely to be permitted to appear for improvement tests in four subjects.
Aligning with NEP 2020 and Introducing Competency-Based Questions
This move is strategically aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The NEP strongly advocates for flexibility in board assessments and aims to alleviate the intense academic pressure often faced by students. By allowing them to improve scores in more subjects, CISCE is directly addressing this concern and offering students a better chance to enhance their overall performance.
Emmanuel detailed further academic reforms scheduled for the coming years. A major shift in the examination pattern is on the horizon. In 2026, question papers for both ICSE and ISC will incorporate approximately 40% competency-based questions. These questions will focus on evaluating a student's critical thinking, practical application of knowledge, and analytical skills, moving beyond rote memorization.
Future Changes in Pass Criteria
The council is also set to revise the pass criteria for the ISC (Class XII) examination. Currently, students need to pass in English and three other subjects. However, starting in 2027, the requirement will change to passing English plus four other subjects. This adjustment is part of a broader restructuring to ensure a more comprehensive assessment of a student's academic capabilities.
These collective reforms signal CISCE's commitment to modernizing its evaluation system. The focus is clearly shifting towards reducing student stress, providing multiple opportunities for improvement, and fostering a deeper, competency-based understanding of subjects as envisioned by the National Education Policy.
