The year 2026 promises significant changes in India’s education landscape, with reforms impacting board exams, entrance tests, foreign university campuses, and higher education governance. Students, parents, and educators are keeping a close watch on these key developments.
1. CBSE Class 10 Exams to Be Held Twice
From 2026, Class 10 students will have the opportunity to appear for board exams twice a year. The first exam will be conducted in mid-February, and the second in mid-May. According to the National Education Policy, this move aims to reduce student stress and provide a second chance for better performance.
If a student performs better in the second attempt, schools will also allow subject changes in Class 11 accordingly. Common guidelines will be implemented across all schools to ensure uniformity. Additionally, starting April 2026, AI-based learning will be introduced from Class 3.
2. Reforms in NTA Exams
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts major entrance exams for engineering, medical, and other universities, has faced repeated criticism for paper leaks and errors in answer keys.
The Ministry of Education has introduced reforms, and 2026 will be the year to assess their effectiveness. With around 5 million candidates appearing for these exams, the focus will be on smooth exam conduct, accurate question papers, and timely results.
3. Expansion of Foreign University Campuses in India
Currently, 19 foreign universities have approval to open campuses in India, with a majority from Australia. In 2026, many of these campuses will start offering courses in business, media, computer science, cyber security, and AI.
Gujarat’s Gandhinagar GIFT City has already seen the formal launch of two Australian university campuses, while Southampton University started classes in Gurugram in 2025. The coming year will reveal Indian students’ preference for domestic foreign campuses versus studying abroad and whether these campuses meet global standards.
4. Higher Education Commission Bill Controversy
The “Developed India Higher Education Institution Bill-2025” aims to create a single-point regulator for higher education. The bill has been sent to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which will submit its report before the first part of the 2026 budget session.
Once implemented, UGC, NCTE, and AICTE may be merged or restructured, affecting governance, accreditation, and grant systems of universities. This bill is expected to dominate political and academic discussions throughout 2026.
5. Political Influence in Education
Recent years have seen political debates over vice-chancellor appointments and textbook revisions, with opposition accusing attempts to impose a particular ideological narrative.
From the 2026-27 academic session, new textbooks for classes 9 to 12 will be introduced based on the National Curriculum Framework. These books are expected to spark debate, particularly in senior classes, as stakeholders watch for potential controversies.
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