The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the introduction of open-book assessments for Class 9 students starting from the 2026-27 academic session. This decision follows a successful pilot study and is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023.
The primary goal is to shift focus from rote memorisation to application-based learning, encouraging students to interpret, apply, and analyse information more effectively.
Main Objective of the CBSE Open Book Exam System
The open-book assessment model is designed to test higher-order thinking skills rather than the ability to memorise facts. Students will be allowed to refer to resources such as textbooks, class notes, and library materials during the exam. The aim is to evaluate how well they can apply concepts in various contexts, in line with the competency-based learning principles of NEP 2020.
Framework and Structure of the Assessment
As per the approved plan, open-book exams will be part of the internal assessments conducted by schools for Class 9. These will be included in the three pen-paper tests held in each academic term. The core subjects covered under this model will be:
- Language
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Science
The framework will be recommended to schools but will not be mandatory. Instead, it will act as a model for institutions wishing to adopt the system. CBSE will provide detailed guidelines to ensure effective implementation.
Objective and Basis for the Move
The NCFSE 2023 highlights the need for a shift from traditional rote learning towards skill-based education. Open-book exams are seen as a tool to assess comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. By giving students access to resources during the test, the focus moves to analysing and interpreting information rather than recalling it from memory.
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Pilot Study and Past Attempts
In December 2023, CBSE launched a pilot study for open-book assessments across Classes 9 to 12. The study evaluated factors such as exam duration, student engagement, and teacher feedback. Results showed strong teacher support for adopting the method.
This is not CBSE’s first attempt. In 2014, the Open Text Based Assessment (OTBA) was introduced for Class 9 in Hindi, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science, and for Class 11 in Economics, Biology, and Geography. Students were given reference material four months before the exam. However, OTBA was discontinued in 2017–18 due to limited impact on critical thinking.
Implementation and Future Direction
The upcoming framework will aim to enhance higher-order skills in students and require schools to have adequate preparation and teacher training. CBSE will support schools with structured guidelines, capacity-building sessions, and sample papers to integrate open-book exams into their internal assessment process.
The initiative is expected to foster deeper understanding, practical application of knowledge, and better alignment with modern educational goals under NEP 2020 and NCFSE 2023.
News Source – Time of India
FAQs
Q1: What is an open-book exam?
It is an assessment format where students can refer to textbooks, notes, and other resources while answering questions.
Q2: Will the open-book exam be mandatory for all schools?
No, it will be optional and part of internal assessments. Schools can choose to adopt it as per CBSE’s recommended framework.
Q3: Which subjects are included?
Language, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science.
Q4: When will it start?
The system will begin in the 2026–27 academic session for Class 9.
Q5: Why was OTBA discontinued earlier?
It was found to have minimal effect on improving students’ critical thinking skills.