Concerns over alleged evaluation errors in the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) examination system are prompting a growing number of students in Bengaluru to shift from CBSE schools to pre-university (PU) colleges.
School administrators say several students have withdrawn their Class 11 admissions amid fears that inaccuracies in the board’s on-screen marking system could affect scores in key subjects such as Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Students willing to forfeit deposits
A senior secondary coordinator at a Bengaluru CBSE school said five students recently withdrew their admissions despite losing a ₹30,000 deposit paid during the admission process.
“Parents and students are worried about the ongoing controversy. Some have chosen to move to PU colleges even without seeking refunds,” the educator said.
Educationists note that marks remain a major factor influencing academic choices in Karnataka, particularly because admissions to professional courses consider both CET and Class 12 scores.
Schools witness rising migration
Sandeep Pai S, Chairman of Bangalore Sahodaya Schools, confirmed that schools have witnessed students opting out after concerns surrounding CBSE evaluations emerged.
According to school authorities, institutions that operate both CBSE and PU streams are finding it easier to accommodate students seeking transfers.
Earlier trends had already shown increasing migration from CBSE and ICSE schools to Karnataka’s PU system after Class 10. These students now account for around 12 per cent of the state’s PU student population.
Admissions likely to be affected
School principals reported a noticeable decline in admissions for Classes 11 and 12. Some institutions said only a small percentage of their Class 10 students opted to continue in the CBSE stream this year.
Educators believe the full impact of the controversy may become more evident during the next admission cycle, as parents closely monitor developments related to evaluation and assessment practices.
The trend highlights the growing importance of transparency and trust in examination systems as families make critical decisions about students’ academic futures.