The CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 bring a major change in the evaluation system. CBSE introduces On-Screen Marking (OSM) for Class 12 board examinations in 2026. This step marks a shift from traditional physical checking to a digital evaluation system. Through this move, the board aims to improve accuracy, transparency, and overall efficiency in the assessment process.
This decision affects nearly 46 lakh students worldwide who appear for CBSE board exams every year. Therefore, the update holds great importance for students, teachers, and schools alike.
CBSE Introduces On-Screen Marking for CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026
CBSE officially announced the introduction of on-screen marking through a notice dated February 9, 2026. The board sent this notice to all CBSE-affiliated schools. In this notice, CBSE clearly explained that it will evaluate Class 12 answer sheets through a digital system from 2026 onward.
Under this system, the board will scan answer booklets and convert them into digital copies. After that, teachers will assess these answer sheets on computers instead of checking physical copies. As a result, the evaluation process will become faster and more organized.
However, CBSE has clarified that Class 10 board exams will continue with physical evaluation in 2026. Therefore, only the CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 will follow the on-screen marking system.
What Is On-Screen Marking (OSM) in CBSE Class 12 Exams in 2026?
On-Screen Marking (OSM) is a digital method of checking answer sheets. Instead of sending physical answer books to evaluation centres, CBSE will scan them and upload them to a secure online system. Teachers will log in through their official credentials and evaluate the answers on a computer screen.
This system reduces human errors and speeds up the checking process. Moreover, it creates a structured marking pattern that improves fairness.
Key Features of On-Screen Marking (OSM) in CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026
The CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 introduce several important features under the new evaluation system.
- First, CBSE will conduct a digital evaluation for all Class 12 answer sheets. Teachers will check scanned answer scripts directly on computers.
- Second, the system focuses on error reduction. It automatically removes common totalling mistakes that usually happen during manual checking.
- Third, the process becomes more streamlined and faster. Since the board will not transport physical answer sheets across locations, it will save significant time.
- In addition, the system allows broader teacher participation. Teachers can evaluate answer scripts digitally from their own schools. Therefore, they will not need to travel to marketing centers.
At the same time, CBSE has confirmed that Class 10 answer sheets will continue with physical marking in 2026.
Why On-Screen Marking (OSM) Matters in CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026
The introduction of On-Screen Marking (OSM) in the CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 matters for several reasons.
- First, it increases accuracy. Digital tools automatically calculate totals, which removes the risk of calculation errors.
- Second, it improves transparency. The system records every action taken during evaluation. Therefore, it strengthens trust in the marking process.
- Third, it saves both time and cost. Since the board does not need to transport answer sheets physically, it reduces logistics expenses.
- Moreover, the system reduces manpower requirements during post-result verification. Because the digital records remain stored safely, re-checking and verification become easier.
Furthermore, OSM encourages wider involvement. All affiliated schools and teachers across India and abroad can participate in the evaluation. This step creates a more inclusive and balanced assessment system.
Infrastructure Requirements for Schools
For the smooth implementation of on-screen marking in CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026, schools must meet certain infrastructure requirements.
- First, every affiliated school must have a dedicated computer lab with a public static IP, as required under affiliation bylaws.
- Second, schools must ensure proper hardware availability. Computers or laptops must run Windows 8 or a newer version. They must have at least 4 GB of RAM and enough free storage space.
- Third, schools must install updated internet browsers and Adobe Reader software to access and evaluate digital answer scripts.
- In addition, reliable internet connectivity is compulsory. The minimum required speed is 2 Mbps.
- Finally, schools must ensure an uninterrupted power supply. Continuous electricity ensures smooth evaluation without interruptions.
Support and Training for Teachers
CBSE will provide full support to teachers during this transition in CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026.
- Teachers who have OASIS IDs will receive login access to the new evaluation system. Through this access, they can understand and practice the marking process.
- Moreover, CBSE will conduct multiple dry runs and training programs. These sessions will help teachers gain confidence before the actual evaluation begins.
- In addition, the board will set up a dedicated call center to solve technical or operational issues.
- Furthermore, CBSE will release instructional videos to guide teachers step by step.
Along with this, the board will issue detailed instructions for every activity. These instructions will ensure that schools and teachers take timely action.
How This Change Impacts Students
The shift to on-screen marking (OSM) in the CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 directly benefits students. Since digital systems reduce totaling mistakes, students can expect fewer evaluation errors. Additionally, faster evaluation means quicker result processing. Therefore, students can plan admissions and competitive exam applications without delay. At the same time, the system increases transparency. As a result, students can feel more confident about the fairness of the marking process.
Check – CBSC PYQs
Conclusion
The introduction of on-screen marking (OSM) in CBSE Class 12 Exams of 2026 marks an important step toward modernizing the board examination system. Through digital evaluation, CBSE strengthens accuracy, transparency, and efficiency. While Class 10 continues with physical marking for now, Class 12 students will experience a fully digital assessment process.
Overall, this initiative, On-screen marking (OSM), reflects CBSE’s commitment to improving evaluation standards for millions of students. As the CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 approach, schools and teachers must prepare their infrastructure and training to ensure the smooth implementation of this new system.
When will on-screen marking (OSM) begin for CBSE Class 12 board exams?
On-screen marking (OSM) will begin with the Class 12 Exams 2026. CBSE confirmed this major change through an official notice dated February 9, 2026, which it sent to all affiliated schools. From the 2026 board examination cycle onward, the board will evaluate Class 12 answer sheets through scanned digital copies instead of physical booklets. Therefore, all evaluation activities for Class 12 will shift to the On-Screen Marking (OSM) system starting in 2026. Schools and teachers must prepare in advance because the board will fully implement this digital evaluation model for Class 12 that year.
Will Class 10 board exams also have on-screen marking in 2026?
No, CBSE has clearly stated that Class 10 answer sheets will continue with the traditional physical evaluation method in 2026. While CBSE has introduced on-screen marking (OSM) for Class 12, it has decided not to extend this system to Class 10 for the 2026 session. Examiners will still check Class 10 answer booklets manually at designated evaluation centers. Therefore, only the Class 12 Exams 2026 will follow the digital marking process, whereas Class 10 will remain unchanged for that academic year.
What are the main benefits of on-screen marking?
On-screen marking offers several important benefits. First, it improves accuracy because the system automatically calculates totals, which removes common addition and totaling errors that may occur during manual checking. Second, it increases transparency because every marking action gets recorded digitally, which strengthens trust in the evaluation process. Third, it speeds up the overall evaluation cycle since CBSE no longer needs to transport physical answer sheets across centres. In addition, the system reduces transportation costs and saves time. Moreover, teachers can assess answer scripts digitally from their own schools, which removes the need for travel and makes participation easier. As a result, the entire evaluation system becomes faster, smoother, and more reliable.
What are the minimum internet speed requirements for schools for OSM?
Schools must maintain a minimum internet speed of 2 Mbps to ensure smooth digital evaluation under the On-Screen Marking system. Reliable internet connectivity plays a crucial role because teachers will access scanned answer scripts through an online platform. If the internet speed remains stable at or above 2 Mbps, the evaluation process will run without interruption. Along with internet speed, schools must also ensure an uninterrupted power supply and properly functioning computer systems so that teachers can complete evaluation work efficiently.
