TALKING POINT: Competency-based questions, teaching support increased the number of students scoring 90% and more

Targeted teaching 

The notable increase in students scoring above 90% in the 2025 CBSE Class X and XII exams can be attributed to factors including revised assessment patterns, enhanced learning resources, focused teaching strategies, as well as consistent practice. CBSE's shift towards competency-based questions has encouraged students to apply concepts rather than rely solely on memorisation. Furthermore, online educational platforms and interactive tools have provided diverse materials to understand and practice concepts effectively. Educators have also adopted targeted teaching methods, emphasising conceptual clarity and application-based learning, aligning with the new assessment patterns.  Regular mock tests and practice sessions in schools familiarised students with the exam format, improving their confidence and performance. Parental involvement and a conducive study environment at home have also played a role in maintaining students' motivation and discipline.

- Theresa Rebeiro, principal, Winmore Academy, Whitefield, Karnataka

Critical thinking vs memorisation

The achievement of nearly 2 lakh students scoring above 90% in the Boards reflects the steadfast dedication of educators to bring in a student-friendly and highly accessible education pattern in schools. CBSE’s evaluation, with its emphasis on structured marking, rewards clarity and depth in responses, has contributed to this outcome. By prioritising competency-based questions, the board fosters critical thinking over memorisation, aligning with progressive educational goals. Enhanced access to digital learning resources and NCERT-aligned materials has further helped. However, this surge in high scores subtly raises concerns, prompting reflection on maintaining the rigour of assessments.  

- Jyoti Arora, principal, Mount Abu Public School, Delhi 

Advance planning

In class X, nearly 24 lakh students took the board exam, while about 17 lakh appeared in class XII. Approximately 2 lakh students scored above 90% but below 95%, making up 8.43% of class X candidates and 6.59% of class XII candidates. The analysis of the data shows the actual and correct spread of the assessment graph of the students. Among the driving factors that contributed to this trend is introduction of 50% competency-based questions. Furthermore, the board informed the curriculum for both classes well in advance and subsequently uploaded the sample question papers. Thereafter, model question papers were also uploaded. The Board also conducted capacity-building programmes for teachers across India to ensure they provide the right kind of teaching and learning environment for students. For the first time, we issued the datesheet three months before the exams, allowing students to plan and prepare for the boards as well as competitive exams. All these factors contributed to this outcome.

 - Sanyam Bhardwaj, controller of examinations, CBSE