CBSE to Launch Open Book Exams for Class IX Students

New Delhi: In a major shift, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce open book assessments for Class IX students starting in the 2026–27 academic year.

This means students can carry textbooks and class notes into the exam hall and use them while answering questions.

The pilot phase begins this year, and the new format will apply to key subjects like languages, mathematics, science, and social science.The goal is to move away from rote memorization and encourage deeper understanding and analytical thinking—an approach supported by the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework 2023.

Participation will be optional for schools, and CBSE will issue detailed guidelines. Teachers will also receive special training to help students prepare. Each academic year will include three pen-and-paper tests under this system.

This move aims to reduce students’ dependence on digital platforms like Google and YouTube, and refocus attention on textbooks. Open book exams will be used only for internal assessments, not board exams.CBSE had previously tested this format in 2014 and 2023.