CBSE has reintroduced On-Screen Marking (OSM) for Class 12 board exams after 12 years to make evaluation faster, accurate, and transparent, while reducing human errors. Schools and teachers will undergo training and need proper infrastructure to implement the system.
After more than a decade, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has reintroduced on-screen marking (OSM) for Class 12 board answer sheets. The move marks a major shift in how board exams are evaluated in India.
The board said the change will make marking faster and more accurate. It also promises students quicker results with fewer errors.
What Is On-Screen Marking?
OSM is a digital evaluation process. Physical answer sheets are first scanned. Then examiners mark them on computers. The software automatically totals and tabulates the marks.
CBSE first tested OSM in 2014 during Class 10 evaluations. But it was later paused due to connectivity issues at the time.
This year, the system is returning exclusively for Class 12 students. Class 10 marking will remain manual in 2026.
Why the Change Now?
CBSE officials have said that OSM reduces human error. It eliminates mistakes like totalling errors. It also cuts time used in transporting answer sheets.
In an interview, Dr Sanyam Bhardwaj, Controller of Examinations at CBSE, said the shift is part of the board’s push for speed and transparency. He described it as an “efficient and transparent way to evaluate papers.”
Officials also noted that teachers can continue their regular duties at school. They won’t have to travel to central evaluation centres.
Experts say this change supports the larger digital reform goals outlined by India’s education policy. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommends modernizing assessments and using technology to improve fairness.
Preparing Schools and Teachers
CBSE has issued detailed guidelines to schools. Every participating school must have:
- A computer lab with a public static IP.
- Computers with Windows 8 or higher.
- At least 4 GB RAM and necessary software.
- Reliable internet with minimum 2 Mbps.
- Uninterrupted power supply.
Teachers will also get training. CBSE will host dry runs and tutorials. A dedicated call centre will assist schools during the transition.
The board has urged schools to release teachers to take part in OSM evaluation duties. Non-compliance may result in penalties under CBSE rules.
Impact On Students and Results
Nearly 46 lakh students appear for CBSE board exams each year. OSM is expected to deliver results faster. It could also reduce disputes over marking mistakes.
Parents and students have welcomed the change. Many see digital marking as a way to address common complaints about manual errors. Analysts say faster results can ease college admissions pressures for Class 12 students.
However, some educators have raised concerns about infrastructure gaps. Schools in remote areas may find it challenging to meet technical requirements. Teachers will need time to adapt to new workflows.
A Step Toward Modern Education
Education experts see this move as part of India’s broader digital transformation. It follows recent reforms on board exam patterns and the adoption of competency-based questions, also encouraged under NEP 2020.
Dr Bhardwaj said in the interview that the board aims to refine the system over time. He added that feedback from teachers will be used to improve future evaluations.
For now, the focus remains on successful implementation in 2026. If it works well, the board may expand digital marking further in future cycles.
Clear Cut Education Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Feb 14, 2026 09:00 IST
Written By: Ayushman Meena
