The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has decided to introduce open-book assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 students starting in the 2026-27 academic session. The board’s Governing Body approved this decision in June after a pilot study examined the feasibility and acceptance of this format in schools.
This change aims to move away from rote memorization and toward competency-based learning. It aligns with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The CBSE’s open-book assessment format will include core subjects like language, mathematics, science, and social science. Students can use textbooks, class notes, and approved resources during the assessments. While CBSE will offer guidelines, schools can choose whether to adopt this format. The assessments will be part of the three pen-and-paper tests held each academic term.
The proposal follows a pilot project approved in December 2023, which tested open-book exams for Classes 9 to 12. Student performance varied from 12 percent to 47 percent, showing difficulties in using resources effectively and grasping interdisciplinary concepts. The study looked at factors like completion time and feedback from those involved. Despite the challenges, teachers in the trial remained positive about OBAs, pointing out their potential to improve critical thinking. The CBSE has previous experience with open-book assessments. It introduced the Open Text-Based Assessment (OTBA) for Classes 9 and 11 in 2014 for various subjects. Students received reference materials months before the exams, but the initiative ended in 2017-18 due to limited success in improving critical thinking skills.
To ensure success this time, the CBSE will provide standard sample papers and clear guidelines to help schools conduct the Open Book Assessments (OBAs). These resources will assist students in using reference materials and applying knowledge to real-world situations.
For the upcoming launch, the CBSE will offer training and structured guidance to help schools incorporate open-book tests into their internal evaluation systems. Officials aim to promote higher-order thinking skills in students and align assessments with the country’s vision.
