Millions of students take the CBSE exams every year, but very few know who actually checks their answer sheets or how the board keeps the marking system fair. Here’s a clear look at how CBSE selects examiners and how your papers are evaluated.
CBSE follows a strict and well-organised process to make sure every answer sheet is checked fairly. Only qualified and experienced teachers are selected as examiners. They are chosen based on fixed rules and guidelines to maintain accuracy in marking.
How examiners are selected
CBSE appoints several types of staff for the exam process—paper setters, moderators, secrecy officers, head examiners, and evaluators. The CBSE Chairperson has the authority to appoint these people according to the board’s rules. Schools send details of their teachers, and CBSE selects suitable candidates from this list. Teachers must have strong subject knowledge and experience. Clear criteria are followed to ensure that only capable teachers handle the evaluation work.
What makes an evaluator eligible?
CBSE follows a strict screening process before choosing evaluators:
- Experience: Teachers must have a required number of years teaching the subject.
- Training: Before the exams begin, selected examiners attend training sessions where CBSE experts explain the marking scheme and guidelines.
- Subject Expertise: Teachers evaluate only the subjects they specialise in.
How the evaluation takes place
CBSE uses a “spot evaluation” system. This means answer sheets are checked at special centres known as nodal evaluation centres—usually selected CBSE schools. Each centre is supervised by a Chief Nodal Supervisor (CNS), usually the school principal. The CNS ensures that all evaluations follow CBSE rules.
The evaluation team includes Head Examiners, Additional Head Examiners, Examiners, and Coordinators.
The Head Examiner plays a key role: they check the first set of answer sheets marked by each examiner to make sure everyone is following the marking scheme correctly. This helps maintain uniformity and fairness.
Training, Monitoring & Confidentiality
Before the evaluation starts, CBSE sends detailed instructions and a “Handbook of Assessment and Evaluation” to every involved person. This guide explains the learning objectives, marking standards, and evaluation rules for each subject.
CBSE also places high importance on confidentiality. All officials must handle exam materials carefully and follow strict secrecy rules to protect the credibility of the entire exam process.
