Challenges for schools
However, conducting board exams in May also poses some challenges to UAE schools, unlike in India, where schools are still closed at that time.
According to Davison, schools will have to overcome challenges such as teacher preparedness, calendar adjustments, and fair internal evaluation through planned training, structured assessments, and parental engagement.
Meanwhile, Ul Ain said: “For schools outside India, like in the UAE, the second exam in May poses challenges, including logistical difficulties and possibly added stress for students adapting to the new exam cycle.”
She said schools will have to assure full academic and emotional support to help learners adjust smoothly. “At the same time, parents have to be informed of the challenges and students will need to manage time effectively.”
Adjusting timetables, exam centres
If many students choose to sit the May exams, schools may have to adjust their timetables and teaching schedules significantly.
“Conducting two board examinations in schools chosen as exam centres will be logistically demanding. We can’t suspend classes for everyone when students from other schools are coming to us.”
Also, students appearing for the second exams in May will miss regular classes on exam days. “We will have to give them extra support through weekend or after-school sessions and that needs Ministry of Education’s approval,” said Ul Ain.
If the exam days fall on holidays also, schools will have to take special permission from the local educational authorities to conduct those exams.
Thoughtful planning needed
Vasu said the implementation will require thoughtful planning. “Schools will need to consider logistics, classroom scheduling, and curriculum planning to ensure a smooth transition for students who opt for the second exam in May. Timely communication with parents and proactive academic planning will be key to minimising any disruptions.”
Ul Ain echoed that schools would have to plan and make necessary adjustments depending on the number of students opting for the second exam. “We will have to wait and watch how this pilot year goes, especially in the UAE context where the academic calendar is different,” she added.
CBSE has asked schools to conduct orientation programmes to inform parents about the new system, which also requires two submissions of the List of Candidates (LOC). Schools in the UAE have started following the instruction, with some calling for in-person orientation sessions and others issuing circulars to parents to explain the new process and implications.
