Are Calculators Allowed in the 2025 Board Exams? Everything You Need to Know

Are Calculators Allowed in the 2025 Board Exams?:: As the 2025 board exams approach, students across India are eagerly seeking clarity on whether calculators will be permitted during their exams. This article provides an in-depth look at the policies of major educational boards, including the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). It offers guidance on what students can expect in the upcoming exam season.

CBSE Board Exams 2025: The Calculator Rule

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued clear instructions regarding the use of calculators in the 2025 board exams. For both Class 10 and Class 12 exams, calculators are not allowed under any circumstances. This rule applies to all streams, including Science, Commerce, and Arts.

The main reason for this prohibition is to encourage students to develop their problem-solving and mental calculation skills without relying on electronic devices. The CBSE believes this helps maintain fairness and consistency for all students, ensuring that no one has an unfair advantage.

Special Provisions and Changes

In the past, there were some exceptions. For example, in 2020, the CBSE allowed students with special needs (CWSN) to use non-programmable calculators during exams. However, as of the 2024-25 academic year, even these exceptions have been removed. The CBSE has emphasized that all students, regardless of their circumstances, must refrain from using calculators in the upcoming exams.

Items Allowed and Prohibited in the Exam Hall

The CBSE has also outlined which items students can bring into the exam hall. According to the official guidelines for the 2025 exams, the following items are allowed:

• Admit card and school ID (for regular students)
• Transparent stationery items (pens, pencils, erasers, and rulers)
• Analog watches
• Transparent water bottles

On the other hand, the following items are strictly prohibited:

• Calculators
• Mobile phones and other electronic gadgets
• Textbooks, notes, or any written material
• Smartwatches

It’s important for students to adhere to these rules to avoid any disruptions during the exam process.

Other Educational Boards’ Policies on Calculators

While the CBSE has made its stance on calculators clear, other educational boards in India may have slightly different policies. Here’s a look at some of the major boards:

• West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE): In contrast to CBSE, WBCHSE allows calculators in their board exams for the 2025 academic year. However, from 2026 onwards, the use of calculators will be prohibited in both theory and practical exams.

How to Prepare Without a Calculator

Since calculators are not allowed in the 2025 exams, students will need to rely on their manual calculation skills. Here are some effective strategies to improve your skills and prepare well for the exams:

1. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice with mathematical problems will increase your speed and accuracy. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to solve problems quickly without a calculator.
2. Master Mental Math Tricks: Learning shortcut techniques like Vedic Mathematics can save time and make complex calculations more manageable.
3. Take Mock Tests: Simulating the exam environment with regular mock tests can help you get comfortable with solving problems without relying on electronic devices.

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Conclusion

As the 2025 board exams draw closer, it’s crucial for students to be aware of their respective boards’ policies on calculator usage. While the CBSE is firm in its decision to prohibit calculators in both Class 10 and Class 12 exams, other boards, such as WBCHSE, have different guidelines. Students are advised to stay updated with the official exam notices from their boards and prepare accordingly to ensure success in the exams.

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FAQs for Are Calculators Allowed in the 2025 Board Exams?

1. Are calculators allowed in CBSE 2025 board exams?
   • No, calculators are not allowed in CBSE exams for the 2024-25 academic year.
2. Can students with special needs use calculators in CBSE exams?
   • No, even students with special needs will not be allowed to use calculators in the 2025 board exams.
3. What items can I bring to the exam hall?
   • Allowed items include your admit card, school ID, transparent stationery items, analog watches, and water bottles. Calculators, mobile phones, smartwatches, and written notes are prohibited.
4. How can I improve my manual calculation skills?
   • Practice regularly, learn shortcuts, and take mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy in solving problems without a calculator.
5. Where can I find official guidelines for my board exams?
   • Always refer to the official website of your respective board for the latest and most accurate information on exam regulations.

Are Calculators Allowed in the 2025 Board Exams?
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