CBSE to Review Board Exams in War‑Hit Middle East Amid US–Israel–Iran Conflict
- Kamaleesh Don
- Mar 5
- 2 min read
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is expected to announce a decision today regarding board examinations scheduled from March 7, 2026 onwards for students enrolled in its affiliated schools located in the Middle East region, which has been significantly affected by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Previous Postponements Amid Regional Tensions
Earlier this week, the CBSE postponed Class 10 and Class 12 board exams that were scheduled for March 5 and 6, 2026 in several Middle East countries including Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to escalating tensions and safety concerns for students.
This decision followed an earlier postponement on March 2, when board exams were also deferred in these regions for the same reason. The Board has stated that new dates for the postponed exams will be announced later, after careful evaluation of the security and logistical situation.
Why the Postponements Happened
The postponements come amid a sudden surge in military activity in West Asia as a result of the ongoing US–Israel–Iran war, which has seen intensified strikes and counter‑strikes across the region, raising concerns about civilian safety and stability. Due to this environment of uncertainty, the CBSE has prioritized student safety while coordinating with Indian diplomatic missions in the affected countries.
What Students Should Know
For students in the Middle East who are registered for CBSE board exams 2026, it’s important to stay in regular contact with school authorities and to follow only official announcements issued by the CBSE. Authorities have cautioned against sharing or relying on unauthorised notices circulating on social media about possible cancellations, clarifying that decisions regarding exam dates will be conveyed only through official channels.
Meanwhile, board exams have continued in other regions after a brief break due to Holi, with Class 10 students currently writing language papers and Class 12 students taking Psychology, in sessions running from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM in India.
What Happens Next
The CBSE will review the situation on March 5, 2026, after which it will decide whether to proceed with the remaining scheduled papers or implement further postponements in the affected Middle East countries. Revised timetables will be announced once the Board finalises a safe and feasible schedule.
Summary: Due to the ongoing US–Israel–Iran war, several CBSE Class 10 and Class 12 board exams have already been postponed in Middle East countries, and the Board is set to take further decisions today about exams scheduled from March 7 onwards. Students in the region are advised to stay updated with official announcements and maintain communication with their schools for the latest information
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