Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) found itself in the eye of a storm, after introducing On-Screen Marking (OSM) system for evaluating Class 12 answer papers in what was its first ever nationwide digital roll out. Instead of traditionally checking physical copies, the evaluators checked the scanned answer sheets onscreen. While CBSE had promised that OSM method of evaluation would lead to greater transparency, speed and accuracy, the technology fell short and over 68000 answer books had to be re-scanned due to poor image quality, and over 13,500 were pulled for manual rechecking.

The Class 12 results, recorded a three-point drop in pass percentage to 85.20% from 88.39% last year. Students and parents expressed concerns over the OSM system. Having received lower than expected marks, students began applying in large numbers for re-evaluation on the portal which opened on May 19 and almost immediately crashed under the weight of applications. Students opting for re-evaluation have continued to face hardships from high fees, technical glitches, and delay in receiving scanned copies of answer sheets.

The academic futures of millions of young people run through these marks as a Class 12 board score is a gate to college admissions, and scholarship eligibility that will shape entire trajectories for student from modest backgrounds.

To discuss the topic, The Hindu will host a webinar titled, ‘Tech troubles in CBSE marks’, on May 30, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Register now for free to ask questions and interact with the panellists. The three best questions will receive a free online subscription to The Hindu.

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