CBSE Issues Detailed Circular on Examination Ethics for 2025 Board Examinations

New Delhi, January 24, 2025 - In an effort to foster an environment of integrity and fairness, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a comprehensive circular on exam ethics for the upcoming Class 10 and 12 Board Examinations set to begin on February 15, 2025. This circular, aimed at ensuring a level playing field for the 44 lakh+ students from various schools across India, outlines strict guidelines, permissible items, and severe penalties for malpractices.

Detailed Regulations:

• Permitted Items:
  • Identification: Students must carry their admit card along with a school ID card (for regular students) or any government-issued photo ID (for private candidates).
  • Stationery: Only transparent pouches are allowed to contain pens, pencils, erasers, scales, and geometry boxes. Pens must be of standard types; no ink pens or pens with erasable ink are permitted.
  • Time Keeping: Only analogue watches are allowed, ensuring no electronic or digital watches enter the examination hall.
  • Essentials: Transparent water bottles are allowed for hydration. Diabetic students can carry sugar tablets or fruits after prior notification to the center superintendent.
• Prohibited Items:
  • Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, smartwatches, and any other electronic gadgets are strictly banned. This includes all forms of communication devices, except in cases where students with special needs might use specific assistive technology with prior approval.
  • Study Material: No books, notes, or any written material are permitted.
  • Miscellaneous: Wallets, handbags, or any personal items that could be used to conceal notes or gadgets are not allowed inside the examination premises.
• Dress Code:
  • Regular students must come in their school uniforms to easily identify them as part of the institution. Private candidates should wear light-colored clothes to facilitate quick frisking, ensuring no hidden items.
• Pre-Exam Briefing and Awareness:
  • Schools are directed to organize sessions before the examination day to educate students, parents, and staff about the importance of adhering to these rules. These sessions will cover the consequences of malpractices like cancellation of the exam, disqualification from appearing for future exams, or even legal action in extreme cases.
• Penalties for Breaching Exam Ethics:
  • The circular details a range of punitive measures under the "Unfair Means" category, which could lead to:
    • Cancellation of the examination for the subject involved.
    • Debarment from appearing in any CBSE examination for a period that could extend up to two years.
    • Legal action, if the case involves organized cheating or external assistance.
• Surveillance and Monitoring:
  • Exams will be conducted under strict vigilance with CCTV surveillance in every examination room, and flying squads will make random checks to ensure compliance with the rules.
• Support for Students:
  • Special provisions for students with disabilities or special educational needs are emphasized, ensuring they have access to necessary aids while adhering to the broader ethical guidelines.

CBSE has urged schools to spread this information through multiple channels, including school websites, social media, and direct communication with parents. The board emphasizes that this initiative is not just about policing but about instilling a culture of honesty and responsibility among students. 

For further queries or clarifications, students, parents, and schools are directed towards the CBSE official resources or to reach out directly to their school administration. This detailed approach by CBSE aims to ensure that the examination process remains a true reflection of student capabilities, preserving the integrity of academic assessments.