In 2025, CBSE has implemented a fee revision that’s getting everyone’s attention. Understanding this change is crucial for students and parents alike.
Here’s a comprehensive look at what the CBSE board exam fee hike entails, how much more you’ll pay, why it happened, and how it affects you.
1. Overview: What’s Changing?
Starting from the 2025–26 academic session, the CBSE board exam fee hike brings a nominal increase in both theory and practical exam fees as well as registration charges for Classes 9 through 12 across India, Nepal, and other countries.
Theory exams: Fee increased by ₹20 per subject (about a 6.7% rise) in India.
Practical exams (Class 12): Fee increased by ₹10 per subject for Indian students.
Higher hikes—set at 10%—are effective for Nepal and other foreign countries.
These adjustments will help CBSE meet rising operational costs, as its fee structure had remained unchanged since 2020.
2. Fee Breakdown: By Category and Region
| Fee Type | India (₹) | Nepal / Other Countries |
|---|---|---|
| Per theory subject | 320 (previously 300) | approx. 1100 / 2200 |
| Five theory subjects | 1,600 | approx. 5,500 / 11,000 |
| Per practical subject (Class 12 only) | 160 (prev. 150) | approx. 175 / 375 |
| Registration Fee (Class 9 & 11) | 320 | 550–660 |
CBSE has carefully structured these increments to reflect actual inflation and examination administration costs.
3. Why Did CBSE Increase the Fees?
CBSE explains that its main source of revenue is registration and exam fees, which hadn’t been revised since 2020. Meanwhile, operating costs—including exam logistics, technology upgrades, and administrative expenses—have increased significantly.
The fee hike allows the board to maintain quality, ensure smooth logistics, and continue delivering reliable examination services.
4. Impact on Students and Schools
Students & Parents
Expect a small fee increase per subject, cumulatively more significant for multiple subjects.
Planning ahead helps avoid last-minute financial surprises.
Schools may assist with fee schedules or highlight financial aid options if needed.
Schools
Need to update billing and onboarding processes.
Must communicate the new fee structure clearly to students and parents.
Adjust administrative workflows to accommodate revised fee documentation.
5. Tip for Students and Parents
To navigate the CBSE board exam fee hike without stress, consider:
Adding a buffer for fee increases during planning.
Checking with your school for any financial assistance or flexible payment options.
Taking this fee hike as a minor bump in the broader picture of ensuring quality education continuity.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q1: How much has CBSE increased the exam fee per subject?
Ans: For Indian students, theory exam fees have risen by ₹20 per subject, and practical fees by ₹10 for Class 12.
Q2: Is the increase the same internationally?
Ans: No. CBSE has applied a 10% fee hike for students in Nepal and other foreign countries.
Q3: Why did CBSE raise the fees now?
Ans: The revision addresses rising administrative and operational costs, which have grown significantly since the last update in 2020.
Q4: Who does this hike affect?
Ans: Students of Classes 9 to 12—especially those appearing for board exams or registering through CBSE-affiliated schools.
Q5: Should students worry about this change?
Ans:
