Parents and students have been anxious after the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced the introduction of On-Screen Marking (OSM) from 2026. Rumours circulating on social media claimed that Class 12 board exam answer sheets would be evaluated using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

CBSE has categorically denied these claims, saying they are false and misleading.

The board has clarified that AI is not being used to check Class 10 or Class 12 answer sheets. The evaluation process continues to be conducted by experienced and trained teachers, following strict and transparent guidelines.

CBSE officials said the confusion arose because of On-Screen Marking. Under OSM, answer sheets are scanned and displayed digitally on a computer screen for evaluation. However, this system does not involve automated or AI-based marking. Teachers remain fully responsible for checking answers and awarding marks. The digital platform is used only to improve efficiency, accuracy, and security.

Addressing concerns about teachers checking papers from their own schools, CBSE said this happens only if a school is designated as an official evaluation centre. Even then, teachers never evaluate the answer sheets of their own students, as papers are randomly allocated through a centralised system.

The board also clarified that scanning of answer sheets is done only at designated centres under proper supervision, and not in regular school premises. Officials dismissed fears of scanning errors, stating that evaluators view an exact digital replica of the original answer sheet.

Regarding handwriting issues, CBSE said the digital format does not affect readability. If handwriting is readable on paper, it will be readable on screen as well.

CBSE urged parents and students not to panic or fall for misinformation. The board reiterated that the evaluation system is secure, teacher-led, and fair, with human judgment—not AI—at the core of the process.

CBSE Board Exam evaluation: Key facts explained

No AI checking answer sheets – All papers are evaluated by teachers.

On-Screen Marking (OSM) – Scanned answer sheets are displayed digitally; no AI involvement.

Who checks papers? – Trained teachers appointed by CBSE.

Own school checking? – Only if the school is an evaluation centre.

Own students’ papers? – Never; allocation is random.

Where is scanning done? – At designated centres under supervision.

Scanning errors? – Evaluators see exact digital copies.

Poor handwriting? – Digital format does not reduce clarity.

Fairness and security? – Centrally monitored and transparent system.