CBSE Introduces Open-Book Assessments For Class 9th From 2026-27; Details Here

CBSE Open-Book Assessments: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce Open-Book Assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 students starting from the 2026-27 school year. The decision was taken after a pilot test was done in 2023 for Classes 9 to 12 in selected schools.

In this new exam style, subjects like Languages, Maths, Science, and Social Science will be included. Students will be allowed to use their textbooks, class notes, and reference materials while writing the paper. CBSE says this new method follows the ideas of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE), which focus on competency-based learning.

What are Open-Book Exams?

Open Book exams are different from normal exams. In regular exams, students need to rely only on their memory to answer questions without using their study materials. In open-book exams, students are allowed to carry their textbooks, notes, or other school-approved resources into the examination hall.

CBSE’s Past Experience and New Plans

This is not the first time CBSE has tried such an exam. In 2014, CBSE started the Open Text-Based Assessment (OTBA) for Classes 9 and 11. Students were given study material in advance, and questions came from that. But by 2017, CBSE stopped it because it did not really improve critical or analytical thinking skills.

CBSE found some challenges in student performance. But with the help of teachers, good quality sample papers, and better training, these problems can be solved.

CBSE plans to give sample papers, teacher-training guides, and assessment tools to schools. Principals have also suggested that the system should be introduced step by step, with feedback from teachers and students.

It is also important to note that this new OBA plan is optional. Schools can decide whether to apply it or not, based on their own academic plans.

Why is CBSE Introducing Open-Book Exams Now?

The NEP 2020 focuses on competency-based education. This means exams should not only check how much a student can memorise, but also how they can understand, analyse, and apply knowledge.

The NCFSE also highlights open-book exams as a good method to test students. These exams help learners move from simple memory learning to deep thinking, application, and problem-solving skills.

With this step, CBSE aims to prepare students for real-life situations, where the ability to find, understand, and use information is more important than just memorising facts.

Also read: Kerala Schools Closed Till September 7 Due to Onam Festival; Details Here

To stay updated on current trends, join the Jagran Josh Telegram community!