Education Ministry to Track Students Failing Class X & XII Board Exams, Link Them With Open Schooling

Ministry of Education will begin tracking students who fail Class 10 and 12 board exams from 2025–26 using UDISE+ data and link them with NIOS and open schooling options to curb dropouts.

Ministry of Education is launching a major new initiative to systematically track students who fail Class X and Class XII board examinations, starting from the 2025–26 academic cycle. 

Under the plan, student data from the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) Plus, a nationwide education database, will be used to track students who do not clear these key school‐leaving exams. The information will then be shared with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) so that such students can be reached proactively and encouraged to complete their schooling through flexible learning options, reported The Tribune. 

Why the tracking matters

This move comes amid concerns about high numbers of students failing or dropping out after board exams. Government data shows that around 50 lakh students failed Class X and XII exams across all boards in 2024, highlighting the need for more inclusive pathways back into education. 

Tracking system aims to identify students earlier and connect them with alternatives such as open schooling and counselling, helping reduce dropout rates and strengthen retention in the school system. 

Supporting students from weaker backgrounds

To ensure financial barriers do not prevent continued education, the ministry is exploring the use of Samagra Shiksha funds to cover NIOS fees for economically disadvantaged students. This could expand access to re-admission opportunities without cost constraints. 

An education official noted that misconceptions about open schooling need to be addressed, saying outreach should show it as a valid option for all students, not just those from poorer families. 

Tackling dropout patterns

Government studies suggest dropout rates decline significantly up to middle school but rise again in higher secondary levels, often due to financial pressures and early entry into the workforce. The new tracking plan is intended to reach these out-of-school students and offer structured pathways back into formal education or recognised open schooling credentials.