CBSE to launch open book exams for Class 9 in 2026-27 academic session

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will roll out open book assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 starting in the 2026-27 academic year, following a decision taken at its governing body meeting in June.

As per the meeting minutes, the NCFSE 2023 "underscores the need to transition from rote memorisation to competency-based learning, with OBAs serving as a catalyst for this shift."

Under the plan, which has been cleared by the curriculum committee and ratified by the governing body, OBAs will form part of the three pen-and-paper tests held each term in languages, mathematics, science, and social science.


The move is based on a pilot study that excluded additional reading materials and assessed cross-cutting themes from the syllabus. Student performance ranged between 12% and 47%, highlighting "challenges in effectively utilising resources and grasping interdisciplinary concepts." Nevertheless, "teachers expressed optimism about OBAs, noting their potential to foster critical thinking."

To maintain standards, CBSE will create uniform sample papers and offer structured guidance to help students work through reference materials and apply their learning in context.

The board anticipates that the initiative will ease exam-related stress, promote real-world application of knowledge, and enhance conceptual clarity.

[With ANI inputs]