What Is CBSE 2026 Board Exams Fee Structure?
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has revised the examination fees for the 2026 board exams. The governing body has approved the changes in June 2025.
For Indian students, the theory exam fees have been increased by Rs 20 per subject, and for class 12 practicals, the fee has gone up by Rs 10 per subject. For Nepali students and other foreign students, the hike is higher. Theory exam fees have risen by 10 percent, and practical exam fees have increased by Rs 25 per subject.
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The revised rates apply from the 2025-26 session onwards. Students appearing in the 2026 board exams will have to pay as per the new fee structure.
| Category | India (₹) | Nepal (₹) | Other Countries (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theory Exam – 1 subject | 320 | 1,100 | 2,200 |
| Theory Exam – 5 subjects | 1,600 | 5,500 | 11,000 |
| Practical Exam (per subj.) | 160 | 175 | 375 |
| Registration (Class 9/11) | 320 | 550–660 | 660 |
As per the officials, CBSE last revised exam fees in 2020. The costs of conducting the exams have gone up since then. Expenses related to printing, digital evaluation, administration, and logistics have increased steadily. The hike in fee will support smooth operations and better digital services.
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Notably, CBSE 2026 board exams are also expected to introduce open-book testing for selected subjects. This will run on a pilot project in schools, where students will be allowed to consult textbooks during exams in certain subjects.
