CBSE New Exam Format for Class 11 & 12: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made changes to the exam format of classes 11 and 12. CBSE informed all its affiliated schools regarding the changes to the exam structure through a directive. Significant alterations have been introduced specifically for classes 11 and 12 annual examinations. These changes will come into practice from the academic session 2024-25.
The changes to the CBSE exam structure are particularly in the composition of question papers. However, the percentage of MCQs remains unchanged at 30%. There has been a transition in answer-type questions that has increased from 40% to 50%. In contrast, the composition of short-answer questions has decreased from 40% to 30%.
All the changes under CBSE new exam format for classes 11 & 12 are in accordance with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020. The NEP 2020 underscores Competency-Based Education in schools. The CBSE has been actively implementing strategies to align assessments with the goals of NEP. This includes developing exemplary resources for both teachers and students, as well as providing ongoing training for teachers.
Highlights of CBSE New Exam Format for Class 11 & 12
Here are the notable highlights of CBSE new exam format for class 11 & 12:
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More Emphasis on Competency-Based Questions: Class 11 and 12 question papers will now include a significant proportion of questions aimed at assessing students’ ability to solve problems based on practical situations. The types questions covered in the revised exam format are:
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Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
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Source-based integrated questions
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Case-study based questions
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Adjusted Weightage for Constructed Response Type Questions: The weightage assigned to traditional answer type questions like short and long answer type questions has been reduced from 40% to 30% to accommodate the competency-based questions.
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Increased Focus on MCQs: MCQs will account for 20% of the total marks in class 11 and 12 annual exams. This inclusion aims to develop critical thinking and quick decision-making skills of students.
Changes in CBSE New Exam Format for Class 11 & 12
The table below presents the crucial changes introduced in the new exam format for classes 11 & 12:
Question Type |
Composition for Academic Session 2023-24 |
Composition for Academic Session 2024-25 |
Competency-focused questions |
40% |
50% |
MCQs |
30% |
30% |
Constructed response questions (Short/long answer type questions) |
40% |
30% |
Advantages of the CBSE New Exam Format for Class 11 & 12
The following are the benefits of the revised exam format of the class 11 and 12 annual exam:
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Emphasis on Practical Application
The new exam pattern promotes conceptual clarity instead of mere memorisation by placing a greater focus on competency-based questions. These questions include MCQs featuring practical scenarios and case studies, encourage students to gain a deeper understanding of concepts and learn how to apply them in real-world situations. This way students can learn the practical application of various concepts, which is crucial for both future employment and higher education.
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Improved Analytical Skills
Under the new exam structure, students are required to evaluate MCQ options, identify relevant concepts in case studies, and establish connections between different information sources. This approach strengthens their analytical skills, enabling them to analyse complex problems and identify significant components efficiently.
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Enhanced Critical Thinking
Through the analysis of case studies, interpretation of data from diverse sources, and proposing solutions, students learn to develop their analytical abilities. Additionally, teachers encourage students to improve their critical thinking, analysis of data, and derive conclusions. This way, students can prepare themselves to answer questions based on various contexts.
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Enhanced Learning Results
The new exam format is expected to improve overall learning results as it encourages a deeper understanding and practical application of subjects. This way it fosters comprehensive learning among students.
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Alignment with NEP 2020
The revised exam pattern aligns with the objectives of the NEP 2020, which aims to promote a holistic educational system. By encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative learning students learn to meet the demands of the evolving modern workplace.
Candidates aiming to clear CBSE class 11 & 12 exams must follow a rigorous preparation routine under the guidance of expert faculties. PW Gulf Class 11 and 12 Coaching Classes help students enhance their knowledge and practice exam-based questions to qualify with a high score.
CBSE New Exam Format for Class 11 & 12 FAQs
Q1. What is the new format of CBSE board exam?
Ans. CBSE revised exam pattern gives more importance to conceptual clarity by increasing the number of analytical-based questions.
Q2. Is there any changes in class 10 exam pattern for AY 2024-25?
Ans. No, there are no changes in the exam pattern of class 10 for academic year 2024-25.
Q3. When will new exam structure for class 11 and 12 come into practice?
Ans. The new exam structure for classes 11 and 12 will come into practice from the beginning of the academic year.
Q4. What is the composition of competency based questions in class 11 and 12 exam format for AY 2024-25?
Ans. The composition of class 11 and 12 competency based questions in the new exam format is 50%.
Q5. How much do you need to score in each subject to get 80% in 12th?
Ans. Class 12 board exam papers of each subject constitute a total of 80. Therefore, to score 80% in class 12, students must secure a minimum of 64 marks in the theory exam of each paper.