Failed CBSE Board Exam 2025? Here’s What to Do Next

Failing in the CBSE Board exam 2025 can be disheartening, but it is not the end of the road. Many students face setbacks, but what matters most is how one rises from it. If you are worried about failing in CBSE Class 10 or CBSE Class 12 board exams, there are multiple options available to help you get back on track. CBSE provides opportunities such as CBSE supplementary exams, re-evaluation, and even improvement exams to give students a fair chance at success. Furthermore, alternative education paths like NIOS, diploma courses, and vocational training offer excellent opportunities for students who want to take a different route.

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LiveCBSE 10th, 12th Results 2025 Live: How to check CBSE result on Digilocker? Date, time updatesMay 6, 2025 | 10:29 PM IST

17.88 lakh candidates appeared for CBSE Class 12 board exams 2025 conducted from February 15 to April 4. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will declare CBSE 12th result 2025 soon.

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Instead of feeling discouraged, one should explore the possibilities that can help one regain control of your academic journey. In this article, we will discuss the options available for students who fail in the CBSE Class 10th or 12th board exams 2025. Read on to learn about the options available and plan your next steps efficiently.

Options Available for Students Who Fail in CBSE Board Exam 2025

In the following section, we have provided details of alternative options available to students in case they have failed their board exams.

For CBSE Class 10 Students

1. Appear for CBSE 10th Supplementary Exams

• If a student fails in one or two subjects, they can take the CBSE Class 10 supplementary exams conducted in July/August of the same year. This gives students an opportunity to clear their failed subjects without waiting an entire academic year.

• Also, a student placed in supplementary can re-appear in July/August of the same year. He/She may also avail 2nd chance in February /March/April next year and may further avail 3rdchance in the supplementary exam to be held in July/August of that year.

2. Reappear as a Private or Regular Student

• If a student fails in multiple subjects and is unable to qualify for the CBSE Class 10th supplementary exam, they can either re-enrol in a school as a regular student or appear for the board exams as a private candidate. A private candidate is not required to attend school but must register for the board exams through CBSE’s official website.

• The CBSE 10th syllabus will be based on the academic year in which the student appears for the exam, so checking the CBSE academic website (www.cbseacademic.nic.in) for updates is mandatory.

Also, Check - CBSE Private Candidate Form 2025

3. Opt for the CBSE 10th Improvement Exam

• Students who pass the Class 10 board exams but are unsatisfied with their marks can apply for improvement exams in up to two subjects in the following year. This is beneficial for students who wish to enhance their scores for better future opportunities, such as securing admission to a preferred stream in Class 11.

Also, Check - CBSE Class 11 Science Stream Subject Combination and their Scope

4. Explore Other Educational Boards or Open Schooling

Students who find the CBSE board system challenging can explore alternative education systems, such as the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) or state boards. These options allow students to continue their education at a flexible pace without strict academic pressure.

5. Enroll in Skill-Based or Vocational Courses

Many students opt for diploma courses after 10th, and short-term skill-based courses instead of repeating Class 10. These courses provide job-oriented skills and career opportunities without the need to reattempt board exams.

For Class 12 Students

1. Appear for CBSE Class 12 Supplementary Exams 2025

• Class 12 students who fail in one subject can take the supplementary exam conducted in July/August to improve their results.

• If a student does not clear the subject in the first attempt, they get two additional chances—one in February/March/April and another in July/August of the following year.

• Also, if a student has passed practical exams, they do not need to retake them; their previous practical marks will be carried forward.

2. Reappear as a Private Candidate or Regular Student

Students who fail in multiple subjects must either repeat Class 12 as a regular student in a school or appear as a private candidate. A private candidate has the flexibility to prepare independently without attending school. The CBSE 12th syllabus followed will be for the year in which they reappear for the exam.

3. Apply for Verification, Re-evaluation, or Photocopy of Answer Sheet

• If students believe their marks are lower than expected, they can apply for verification of marks, obtain a photocopy of the evaluated answer book, or request a re-evaluation.

• These applications must be submitted within CBSE’s prescribed time frame, and students must accept the final revised CBSE Class 12 revaluation and re-verification results, whether the marks increase or decrease.

4. Improve Performance in One Subject

Students who pass Class 12 but want to enhance their score in a particular subject can take the CBSE improvement exam in one subject in the supplementary exam. This can be beneficial for students aiming for higher education institutions that have strict cutoff requirements.

5. Pursue Alternative Career Paths

Students who do not wish to reappear for the board exams can consider alternative career paths such as diploma programs, vocational courses, government skill development initiatives, and professional certifications. These alternatives provide viable career options without requiring students to repeat Class 12.

Also, Check - Unique Career Options after 12th

6. Consider Open Schooling or Other Boards

Students who struggle with CBSE’s structure can opt for NIOS or state boards, which provide a more flexible curriculum and allow students to complete their education at their own pace.