Higher Secondary exams begin today: Last under old system, semester system from 2025-26!

The West Bengal Higher Secondary examinations started today, marking the final year under the traditional system before the semester-based format begins in 2025-26. The exams will be conducted from March 3 to March 18, between 10:00 AM and 1:15 PM. This year, 5,09,000 students are appearing, a sharp decline of 2.5 lakh compared to last year. A total of 2,089 centers have been set up across the state, with 798 designated as main centers.

Strict security measures have been enforced at all examination centers. Metal detectors have been installed at every venue, and each exam hall will have a minimum of two invigilators. Authorities have implemented a zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of digital communication devices. Any student found carrying such devices will face immediate cancellation of their enrollment, barring them from appearing in any subject this year.

The introduction of the semester-based system from the 2025-26 academic year will change the examination pattern, with students required to sit for two exams annually. This marks a major shift from the current system, which follows a single board examination at the end of the academic year.