CBSE to Hold Special Exams for Sports and Olympiad Participants to Avoid Academic Loss

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will conduct special board examinations in 2025 for students participating in national or international sports events and recognised Olympiads. This initiative, ongoing since 2018, aims to ensure students pursuing excellence in extracurricular activities do not face academic setbacks.

The provision applies to students whose main CBSE board exam dates overlap with the schedules of recognised events or their travel periods. Sports events sanctioned by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) or the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) qualify for this opportunity. Similarly, students participating in International Olympiads recognised by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE) can avail of the special exam arrangement.

How to Apply

1. File a formal application via the respective schools, supported by certificates issued by recognised authorities like SAI, BCCI, or HBCSE.
2. Schools must submit complete applications to CBSE by December 31, 2024.
3. CBSE regional offices will notify schools about approvals by January 15, 2025.
4. Approved special exams will be scheduled within 15 days of the original dates.

Key Provisions

• The provision is limited to main theory examinations. Practical exams, supplementary tests, and training camps are excluded.
• Certificates must be verified by nodal officers and hosted online for reference.
• Incomplete applications or unrecognised events will not qualify.

CBSE’s Commitment to Holistic Development

This policy reflects CBSE’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals by supporting both academic and extracurricular achievements. It aligns with India’s broader agenda of fostering talent in sports and Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) fields, ensuring students can represent the nation without compromising their education.