In India, board exams aren’t just about marks — they’re the result of years of school learning. But in recent years, many students have started skipping school and joining coaching centers full-time, especially for JEE and NEET prep. This “dummy school” trend may help with test prep, but it takes away the full learning experience that school offers — like building confidence, discipline, and social skills.

That’s why CBSE is stepping in with a new rule to bring back the importance of attending regular school.

📅 Effective from Academic Year 2025-26
📝 Applies to CBSE Class 12 Board Exams

What’s the Big Update?

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a strict reform: Students enrolled in dummy schools will no longer be allowed to appear for Class 12 board exams starting with the 2025-26 academic session.

What Is a Dummy School?

Dummy schools are institutions where students enroll but skip regular classes to focus entirely on coaching for JEE/NEET. This practice compromises holistic learning.

New Attendance Rule

Minimum 75% attendance is now mandatory to appear for board exams.
CBSE will conduct surprise inspections.
Non-attending students may be barred from board exams.
Schools promoting this culture will face disciplinary action.

What If You Don’t Meet Attendance?

👉 Option: Enroll with NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling)
- ✔️ Offers flexibility but may lack the formal school experience.
📚 But still, CBSE recommends attending a full-time school for holistic learning.

Advisory for Parents & Students

Enroll only in genuine CBSE-affiliated schools.
Maintain at least 75% attendance throughout the year.
Do not rely on dummy admissions to appear for board exams.

Why This Matters

CBSE aims to:

Restore the value of formal education
Prevent misuse of school registrations
Ensure students get a well-rounded learning experience

“No attendance, no exam” — CBSE’s message is loud and clear.

📢 Conclusion

This update reshapes how students plan their Class 12 education. It’s no longer just about cracking exams — it’s about attending school and learning the right way.

✔️ Stay in school.
✔️ Show up.
✔️ Succeed the right way.

Reviewed by

Prachi Singh | VP - Academics

Prachi Singh is a highly accomplished educationist with over 16 years of experience in the EdTech industry. Currently, she plays a pivotal role at Extramarks, leading content strategy and curriculum development initiatives that shape the future of education...read more.