The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has decided to implement the Open Book Assessment (OBA) system for class 9 students from 2026-27. This decision was taken during the board meeting held in June.
According to the meeting report, the National Curriculum Framework-School Education 2023 (NCFSE 2023) makes it clear that the education system must move towards skill-based learning instead of rote learning, in which open-book assessment can play an important role.
This plan has been approved by the curriculum committee and the governing body. Under this, one of the three written examinations in subjects like languages, mathematics, science and social sciences in every session will be taken in open book format.
The decision draws on a pilot study that avoided additional reading materials and tested cross-cutting themes from the curriculum. Student scores ranged from 12 per cent to 47 per cent, revealing “challenges in effectively utilising resources and grasping interdisciplinary concepts.” Despite this, the minutes note that “teachers expressed optimism about OBAs, noting their potential to foster critical thinking.”
To ensure quality, CBSE will develop standardised sample papers and provide structured guidance to help students navigate reference materials and apply knowledge contextually.
The board expects the initiative to reduce exam stress, encourage real-world application of knowledge, and strengthen conceptual understanding.
