CBSE Postpones Class 12 Board Exams in Several Middle East Countries Amid Regional Tensions
New Delhi, 9th March 2026: The Central Board of Secondary Education has postponed certain Class 12 board examinations scheduled between March 9 and March 11, 2026, in multiple Middle Eastern countries due to the prevailing security concerns and rising tensions in the region.
The decision affects CBSE-affiliated schools operating in Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
A large number of Indian students are enrolled in CBSE-affiliated schools across these countries. The board stated that the postponement was announced as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and school staff amid the uncertain situation in parts of the Middle East.
Recent reports of heightened tensions involving countries such as the United States, Israel and Iran have contributed to concerns over regional stability.
According to the board’s notification, examinations that were scheduled to be conducted on March 9, 10 and 11 in the affected countries have been postponed. Schools affiliated with CBSE in these regions have been formally informed about the change.
The board said that revised examination dates for the postponed papers will be announced soon.
CBSE officials also indicated that the situation will be reviewed on March 10. Based on the assessment, the board will decide whether examinations scheduled from March 12 onwards will proceed as planned or require further changes.
Students have been advised to stay in contact with their respective schools and regularly check official announcements regarding the revised examination schedule.
The board reiterated that safeguarding students while ensuring minimal disruption to academic activities remains its primary priority, and further decisions will be taken depending on how the situation in the region develops.
