The Central Board of Secondary Education has brought a big change for Class 12 board exams in 2026. The board has introduced on-screen marking for checking answer sheets. This means teachers will now check answer copies on a computer instead of holding paper sheets in their hands. The official notice was dated February 9, 2026, and it was sent to all CBSE-affiliated schools across India.
This step is taken to make the checking process faster, safer, and clearer. Many students and parents often worry about mistakes in total marks or delays in results. With this new system, CBSE wants to reduce such problems. The board has said that scanned copies of answer sheets will be checked online by teachers.
Class 10 answer sheets will still be checked in the old way for 2026. But for Class 12, this new digital system will begin. This change is important because Class 12 marks play a big role in college admissions and future plans. Students, parents, and schools must understand how this new system will work.
On-screen marking refers to the digital evaluation of scanned answer sheets. To start with, the student fills in the examination on paper as usual. The answer sheet is scanned after the exam. That is then copied to a secured system in a digital format. Teachers log in and examine answers on their computer.
They no longer have to carry the stacks of the paper copies. They do not have to go to the checking centres. All that occurs is via a safe internet system. It is during checking that marks are keyed in the system.
The system will minimise basic errors. As an example, errors of adding the marks or missing answers can be minimised. The computer system can assist in the automatic totalling of marks. This enables the process to be more precise.
This change may cause anxiety in the students. However, they ought to be aware that nothing changes the manner in which they will write the exam. They continue to use pens and paper. The only method that is altered is the checking method. This is aimed at ensuring that the evaluation process is easy and without discrimination.
CBSE has made this change to improve speed and fairness. Every year, lakhs of students appear for Class 12 board exams. Handling so many answer sheets is not easy. Sending papers from one place to another takes time and money.
There were also chances of delay in checking. Sometimes mistakes happened in totalling marks. Students had to apply for rechecking. This created stress and extra work.
With On Screen Marking, scanned answer sheets can be shared quickly with teachers. Teachers can check from their own schools. This saves travel time and cost. It also allows more teachers to take part in evaluation.
The board wants transparency. When marks are entered digitally, records are stored safely. This helps in faster result processing. It also reduces manual errors.
Class 12 is a very important year. Students apply for college, entrance exams, and scholarships. Quick and fair results are necessary. CBSE believes this system will make the process stronger and more reliable.
The new On-Screen Marking system has many features. One main feature is digital evaluation. Teachers will see scanned answer sheets on their computer screen and mark them online.
Another feature is error reduction. The system is made to avoid common totalling mistakes. Marks will be calculated properly within the system. This reduces human error.
The process will be more organised. Since answer sheets are scanned and uploaded, there is no need for physical movement of bundles. This saves time and keeps records safe.
Teacher participation will increase. Teachers from different schools can log in and evaluate from their own school computer labs. They do not need to travel to exam centres.
For 2026, only Class 12 answer sheets will follow this method. Class 10 answer sheets will continue with physical checking. This shows that the board is starting slowly and carefully before making full changes.
These features show that the board wants a modern and simple evaluation system.
This new system brings many benefits.
Overall, students get fair results. Schools become part of a modern system. The board can manage exams in a better way. This change may also prepare students for a more digital future.
For this system to work well, schools must have proper facilities. CBSE has clearly mentioned some requirements.
Schools must have a dedicated computer lab. The lab should have a public static IP as per rules. Computers or laptops must run Windows 8 or a newer version. Each system should have at least 4 GB RAM and enough free storage.
Updated internet browsers and Adobe Reader must be installed. A stable internet connection is very important. The minimum required speed is 2 Mbps. Without good internet, teachers cannot check smoothly.
There must also be an uninterrupted power supply. If power goes off during checking, work may stop. So backup power is needed.
These requirements ensure smooth functioning. Schools must prepare in advance. Proper planning will help teachers work without stress. The board has shared these guidelines to avoid confusion later.
CBSE understands that this is a new system. So the board will provide support and training to teachers.
Teachers with OASIS IDs will get login access. They can explore the system and understand how it works. The board will conduct training sessions and dry runs. This will help teachers practise before real evaluation begins.
Instructional videos will be shared. These videos will explain step by step how to check answer sheets online. Detailed instructions will also be sent separately.
A dedicated call centre will be set up. If teachers face any problem, they can ask for help. This ensures smooth work during evaluation time.
Proper training is very important. Teachers must feel confident while using the system. When teachers are comfortable, students benefit too. This shows that the board is planning carefully and not rushing the change.
Students need not worry. The exam pattern remains the same. They will write answers on paper like before. Only the checking process changes.
Students should focus on neat handwriting. Since answer sheets will be scanned, clear writing is important. A dark pen and proper margins will help.
Parents should support their children. Many students feel nervous during board exams. This new change may create extra questions. Calm guidance is needed.
If any student has doubts after results, digital records will help in quick review. The system is designed to be transparent and fair.
At this stage, awareness is key. Schools should inform students about the change. Clear communication will reduce fear. With proper understanding, students can focus only on their preparation and not worry about evaluation methods.
Read our blog about: Last One Month Study Plan for Class 12 Board Exams 2026
Board exams are not just about marks. They are about emotions, pressure, and big life decisions. Many students in Class 12 feel confused about career choices. Some feel stressed or anxious.
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The team understands the Indian education system deeply. They provide 1:1 personalised online counselling. Special focus is given to Class 10 and Class 12 students because these years are very important.
Mentrovert also offers mentors for class 12 and counselling sessions for students who want to try the service or cannot afford support. Parents also receive guidance to understand their child’s stress and challenges.
The vision is clear. No student should feel alone or lost. With proper mentorship and community support, students can make informed decisions. During this time of change in board exams, having a trusted mentor can make all the difference.
It is a digital way of checking answer sheets. Teachers check scanned copies on a computer instead of paper bundles.
No. Students will still write exams on paper. Only the checking process is online.
Yes. The system helps in the correct total of marks and reduces simple errors.
No. In 2026, it is only for Class 12. Class 10 will follow the old method.
No. The exam pattern is the same. Students should focus on neat writing and good preparation.
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