Campus Times | Lucknow 

The CBSE Class 12 Supplementary Examination 2026 has triggered widespread concern among students, with thousands urging the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to consider awarding grace marks and ensure a balanced evaluation process. The demands gained momentum after candidates alleged that the July 28 examination was significantly more difficult than anticipated and did not align with the expected chapter wise weightage.

According to available figures, nearly 1.63 lakh students appeared for the Class 12 supplementary (improvement) examination this year. Soon after the exam concluded, students took to social media platforms, expressing disappointment over the difficulty level of the question paper. Many claimed that the distribution of questions differed from the preparation strategy based on chapter wise weightage, making the paper challenging for a large section of candidates.

For many students, the supplementary examination represents a crucial opportunity to improve their scores and secure admission to undergraduate programmes. Several candidates fear that a strict evaluation process could adversely impact their chances of meeting the minimum eligibility criteria prescribed by colleges and universities, particularly institutions requiring 75 percent or higher marks.

As a result, students have appealed to CBSE to adopt a compassionate and transparent approach while assessing answer sheets. While some have requested grace marks for all candidates, others have sought moderation of 15–20 marks in up to two subjects, arguing that such a measure would help deserving students continue their academic journey without losing an entire year.

The issue has also received support from education content creator Anurag Tyagi, who urged the board to evaluate answer scripts fairly. He stated that supplementary candidates are attempting to rebuild their academic future and deserve a balanced assessment that reflects their efforts.

OSM concerns resurface ahead of supplementary results

The current demands are also being viewed against the backdrop of the On-Screen Marking (OSM) system introduced by CBSE during the 2026 board examinations. The digital evaluation mechanism was implemented to improve accuracy, consistency, and efficiency in the marking process.

However, following the declaration of the main board results, several students had alleged discrepancies in evaluation, claiming they received lower-than-expected scores. The concerns led to increased demands for greater transparency, including easier access to answer book photocopies, verification of marks, and re-evaluation facilities.

With the supplementary answer sheets now set to be evaluated through the same system, students have expressed fresh concerns over the fairness of the assessment. Some have even tagged senior government officials, including the Prime Minister and the Union Education Minister, on social media, requesting intervention and urging CBSE to adopt a lenient and student friendly evaluation policy.

As of now, CBSE has not issued any official response regarding the demands for grace marks or moderation. Students are awaiting further clarification from the board as the evaluation process continues.