The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has announced major reforms in the Semester III Higher Secondary Examination 2026, introducing competitive exam-style measures including multiple sets of question papers, S-shaped seating arrangements, and metal detector-based frisking.
The revised exam system, which applies to students of the 2024–26 academic session, will come into effect from September 8, 2025, when the Semester III examinations begin. The exams will be MCQ-based and conducted in offline mode, lasting 1 hour 15 minutes for most subjects and 45 minutes for music, visual arts, and vocational subjects.
Multiple Sets of HS Semester Question Papers
A major change in this year’s exam is the introduction of multiple sets of question papers, a move aimed at preventing cheating. Students sitting next to each other will receive different question sets, and even if a student is absent, the paper allocated to their seat will not be redistributed or reused.
S-Pattern Seating Arrangement at HS Semester
In another significant measure, schools will implement S-shaped (zigzag) seating inside exam halls. The new seating format is expected to further minimize malpractice during the exam.
Strict Frisking with Metal Detectors
Students will be thoroughly checked using handheld metal detectors at the entrance of examination centers. Unlike competitive exams, the frisking will be done by teachers instead of the police. Police presence will be reserved for external control and emergencies only.
WBCHSE has issued a strict warning against carrying mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, bags, books, or any electronic gadgets inside the exam venue. Any violation will lead to immediate expulsion and cancellation of the entire exam.
Also Read: WBPSC Miscellaneous Prelims Result 2025 Released, Download Merit List PDF
Digital Attendance and Online Monitoring at HS Semester Exam
Attendance during the Semester III exam will be recorded in real-time using the Council’s online portal. School authorities have been directed to enter absentee data on the day of the exam itself. The Council has also mandated that admit cards be downloaded from the portal and checked thoroughly. Students without proper subject entries on their admit cards will not be allowed to appear.
HS Semester III Exam Routine and Timings
The exam will begin daily at 10:00 AM, and students must report to the center by 9:00 AM. No late entry will be allowed. Exams will continue till September 22, covering core subjects such as Bengali, English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Accountancy, and Political Science.
For More Details Check the Official Circular
Fee Structure
Each student must pay a total of ₹240, which includes ₹190 as the exam fee to the Council, ₹25 as a center fee, and another ₹25 as a center grant.