CBSE Board Exam 2025: Guidelines on Exam Ethics, Dress Code, and Prohibited Items
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an important notice to all affiliated schools, stressing the importance of maintaining examination ethics and ensuring fair conduct during the upcoming Class 10th and Class 12th board exams in 2025. With approximately 44 lakh students set to appear for the exams beginning on February 15, 2025, the board aims to provide clear guidelines regarding prohibited items, dress code, and consequences for indulging in unfair practices.
Emphasis on Unfair Means Rules (UFM)
The CBSE has reiterated the need for schools to brief students about the “Unfair Means Rules” (UFM), outlining prohibited actions that can compromise the integrity of the examination process. Key among these is the possession and use of electronic devices such as mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, and other communication tools within the examination centre. Violating these rules can lead to severe penalties, including the cancellation of both the current year’s and next year’s exams.
Schools have been instructed to ensure that both students and their parents are fully aware of the UFM guidelines, including the heavy consequences of engaging in such unethical practices. On the exam day, school officials will remind students to leave any barred items at home or outside the exam centre.
What Students Are Allowed to Bring
For a smooth examination experience, students are allowed to carry the following items to the exam centre:
- Admit Card and School Identity Card (for regular students)
- Admit Card and Any Government Issued Photo Identity Proof (for private students)
- Stationery items in a Transparent Pouch, such as a geometry/pencil box, blue or royal blue ink/ballpoint/gel pen, scale, writing pad, and eraser
- An Analogue Watch
- A Transparent Water Bottle
- Metro Card, Bus Pass, and Money
What Students Must NOT Bring
The CBSE has also outlined a list of items strictly prohibited during the exams. Any student found carrying the following items will be treated under the “Unfair Means” category, facing possible disciplinary action:
- Stationery items containing textual material (written or printed), calculators, or any electronic devices like mobile phones, Bluetooth earphones, smartwatches, or cameras
- Personal items like wallets, goggles, handbags, or pouches
- Eatable items (except for diabetic students who may carry prescribed food)
- Items that could potentially be used for cheating
Dress Code for CBSE Board Exams
To maintain uniformity and discipline, CBSE has specified a dress code for students appearing for the 2025 board exams. Regular students are required to wear their school uniform, while private students are expected to wear light, simple clothes. This is to ensure that there are no distractions or issues that could compromise the exam environment.
With the CBSE Board Exams approaching, it is crucial for all students to familiarize themselves with these guidelines to avoid any inconvenience or penalties. Schools are urged to share these important instructions with their students and parents to promote a smooth and fair examination process for all.
