CBSE Cancels Class 10 Exams, Postpones Class 12 Papers in Middle East Amid Regional Conflict

Updated: March 06, 2026 04:44

Image Source: NDTV

On March 5, 2026, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced the cancellation of Class 10 board exams in Middle Eastern countries until March 11 and the postponement of Class 12 exams scheduled for March 7. The decision was taken due to escalating tensions in the region, ensuring student safety.

The CBSE has issued an urgent directive cancelling all Class 10 board examinations in the Middle East scheduled until March 11, 2026, while also postponing the Class 12 exam originally set for March 7. The announcement comes amid the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict, which has heightened security concerns across several Middle Eastern nations.

According to CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj, the decision affects students in Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The board emphasized that the safety of students and staff remains the top priority. For Class 10 candidates, CBSE confirmed that the mode of result declaration will be announced separately in due course.

The postponement of Class 12 exams will be reviewed based on the evolving situation, with new dates expected once stability returns. This marks one of the rare instances where CBSE has had to cancel and reschedule exams due to geopolitical tensions, underscoring the seriousness of the regional conflict.

Key Highlights

Class 10 Exams Cancelled: All board exams scheduled until March 11, 2026 in Middle Eastern countries have been cancelled.
Class 12 Exams Postponed: The exam scheduled for March 7, 2026 has been postponed, with rescheduling to be announced later.
Affected Countries: Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.
Reason: Escalating Iran–Israel conflict and regional instability.
Result Declaration: CBSE will notify Class 10 students about the mode of result declaration separately.
Safety Priority: The decision highlights CBSE’s focus on student and staff safety amid geopolitical tensions.

Conclusion

The cancellation of Class 10 exams and postponement of Class 12 papers in the Middle East reflects the extraordinary impact of geopolitical conflicts on education. While the move disrupts academic schedules, CBSE’s priority remains safeguarding students. The board’s forthcoming announcements on result declaration and rescheduling will be crucial for affected candidates and families.

Sources: Mint, Zee News, The Indian Express, Hindustan Times, The Hindu

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