DUBAI 03-15-2026: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has taken a significant decision regarding the Class 12 board examinations in the UAE and several Middle Eastern countries. Due to the ongoing regional situation and security concerns, CBSE announced the cancellation of the remaining Class 12 board exams in the region.

This decision has affected thousands of Indian students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools across the Middle East.

In this article, we explain why the exams were cancelled, which countries are affected, and what it means for students.

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Why CBSE Cancelled the Class 12 Exams

CBSE conducts board exams not only in India but also in international schools following the CBSE curriculum. Many Indian students living in Gulf countries appear for these exams every year.

However, the board decided to cancel the exams because of:

1. Safety Concerns

The safety of students and school staff is the highest priority for CBSE. Conducting exams during uncertain conditions could create risks.

2. Regional Instability

Ongoing geopolitical tensions in parts of the Middle East have disrupted normal activities including schooling and travel.

3. Mental Stress on Students

Students were facing stress and uncertainty while preparing for exams during this difficult situation.

Because of these reasons, CBSE concluded that cancelling the exams was the best option for the students.

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Countries Affected by the Cancellation

The cancellation applies to CBSE-affiliated schools located in several Middle Eastern countries.

These include:

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Iran

Thousands of students who were preparing for their final board exams in these countries will now be evaluated using an alternative method.

Timeline of the Decision

The final cancellation was preceded by several steps taken by CBSE.

Initial Postponement

Some exams scheduled in early March were first postponed due to the uncertain situation.

Situation Review

CBSE continued monitoring the developments in the region and consulted with schools and authorities.

Final Decision

After assessing the conditions, CBSE cancelled the remaining Class 12 board exams in the affected Middle Eastern countries.

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How CBSE Will Evaluate Students

Since the exams have been cancelled, CBSE will introduce an alternative evaluation system.

Possible evaluation methods include:

• Internal school assessments
• Pre-board exam performance
• Practical examination marks
• Academic performance during the year

CBSE is expected to release official guidelines explaining how students’ final results will be calculated.

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Reaction from Students and Parents

The announcement has received mixed reactions from the student community.

Relief for Safety

Many parents and students support the decision because it prioritizes safety.

Concerns About Fair Evaluation

Some students are worried about whether the evaluation process will be fair and transparent.Education groups in the region have requested CBSE to ensure a student-friendly and fair assessment policy.

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Impact on Higher Education

Class 12 board exam results are extremely important for:

• University admissions
• Scholarship applications
• Entrance exams

Students are hoping that CBSE will release the results quickly so that their college application process is not delayed.

Most universities worldwide accept CBSE results, so the board’s evaluation method will play an important role in students’ academic future.