The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a significant change affecting private candidates in Class 10 and 12, raising alarms among students gearing up for competitive examinations. Effective from the 2026 board exams, private students will no longer have the option to select additional subjects, a move that many believe could limit their future career prospects.

Previously, students who had completed their Class 10 or 12 exams could reappear as private candidates to take one or two extra subjects. This flexibility was crucial for those aiming to meet the eligibility requirements for professional courses such as engineering (JEE) or medical (NEET), which often necessitate specific subject combinations like Mathematics or Biology. For instance, a student who graduated from the Science stream could add Mathematics later to qualify for engineering entrance tests.

Under the new regulations, private candidates are restricted to the subjects they initially studied in their Class 12 exams. This limitation is causing distress among students who intended to broaden their academic qualifications. Many are concerned that their career options may become limited without the ability to add essential subjects such as Mathematics, History, Geography, Accounts, or Business Studies.

The abrupt policy change has left many students in disbelief. For example, Pratima from Kirti Nagar, who completed her Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in 2014, had planned to take Mathematics as an additional subject to qualify for JEE. Similarly, Surbhi from Mayur Vihar expressed concerns that many entrance exams require Mathematics, making it challenging to meet eligibility criteria without this option.

In response to the backlash from students, CBSE released a notice clarifying that while private candidates cannot take new additional subjects, regular students still have the option to choose up to two additional subjects in Class 10 and one in Class 12 during their regular studies. However, these students must study the additional subject for two full years. The board also noted that if a school lacks CBSE approval for a specific subject or does not have adequate facilities, students will not be able to select that subject.

Despite the new restrictions, private students can still apply for the 2026 exams with their current subject combinations until September 30, 2025. Many have urged CBSE to reconsider its decision and restore the flexibility previously available to private candidates.

While CBSE's decision aims to simplify assessments, students are worried it may hinder alternative career paths. With the application deadline approaching, aspiring candidates are calling on the board to revisit this policy to prevent limiting opportunities for those wishing to pursue higher education in competitive fields.