The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) is the official state authority responsible for conducting the SSLC (Class 10) and 2nd PUC (Class 12) examinations. Established in 2022 through the merger of the former SSLC and Pre-University boards, KSEAB plays a key role in designing syllabi, conducting exams, evaluating answer scripts, and issuing certificates for all affiliated schools and colleges in Karnataka.
Major Exam Reforms & New Assessment System
In recent years, KSEAB has introduced significant reforms to make exams more student-friendly and aligned with NEP 2020 guidelines.
Three-Exam System
- The traditional main + supplementary exam model has been replaced with three exam opportunities in a year – Exam 1, Exam 2, and Exam 3.
- Students can appear in all three, and only their best score will be considered for the final marksheet.
- This change reduces exam stress and gives students multiple chances to improve their results.
- However, due to low participation in the third exam, the Education Department is considering removing Exam 3 from the next academic year.
New Question Paper Pattern
- Fewer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and more descriptive, application-based questions.
- Marks distribution now focuses on understanding (40%), application (20%), diagram work (15%), and higher-order thinking (5%).
- The aim is to reduce rote learning and encourage concept clarity.
Proposed Changes for 2026 Onwards
- Lowering pass marks from 35% to 33%, in line with CBSE standards.
- Reducing total marks for the First Language paper from 125 to 100.
Introducing dual-level question papers (basic & standard) for Mathematics and Science to cater to different learning levels.