UP Board exams to start from tomorrow: Here's what students should keep in mind

The board examination season in Uttar Pradesh begins on February 18, with more than 50 lakh students set to appear for high school and intermediate papers conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad.

More than 8,000 examination centres have been established across the state to manage what officials describe as one of the largest school-level examination exercises in the country. Authorities have tightened monitoring mechanisms while introducing limited relaxations for students.

OMR system continues for high school papers

High School candidates will once again answer 20 objective questions on Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets in each 70-mark paper. The remaining 50 marks will be assessed through descriptive answers written in answer booklets.

The Board has pre-printed roll numbers and subject details on OMR sheets to reduce clerical errors. However, strict instructions have been issued. Students must mark answers using blue or black ballpoint pens only. Any cutting, overwriting, or use of correction fluid will result in cancellation of the sheet.

In such cases, an alternative “orange” OMR sheet will be provided, but candidates will have to manually fill in all details, including roll number and subject. Invigilators have been directed to verify entries carefully.

Counter-foil system introduced to prevent tampering

To strengthen transparency, the Board has implemented a counter-foil mechanism. Each OMR sheet consists of two parts, the main sheet and a detachable lower portion.

After the examination, both parts will be separated and sealed in different envelopes. Officials say the measure is aimed at preventing manipulation and ensuring accountability at the centre level.

Room invigilators have been assigned responsibility for matching student details on answer sheets before submission.

Admit card relaxation with conditions

Candidates who forget to carry their admit cards may be allowed to sit the examination provisionally. Centre administrators can grant temporary permission on the condition that the candidate produces the admit card or a duplicate copy at the next paper.

Failure to do so will bar the student from appearing in further examinations.

A 30-minute grace period has also been permitted for late arrivals with valid reasons. Minor discrepancies in personal details on admit cards will not automatically lead to disqualification, provided identity can be verified.

Divyang candidates will receive 20 minutes of additional time. Centres located in multi-storey buildings have been instructed to provide ground-floor seating arrangements for such students.

Over 4,000 missed practicals; second opportunity announced

During the Intermediate practical examinations, 4,372 students were unable to appear due to absence, examiner-related issues, or other reasons.

The Board has announced that these students will be given another opportunity after the written examinations conclude on March 12. Students citing medical or genuine reasons will be eligible for up to two chances.

Official advisory focuses on strategy and time management

Ahead of the exams, the Secondary Education Department conducted an online guidance session for students and parents. Officials advised candidates to attempt familiar questions first, use headings, underline key points, and manage time effectively. Students were urged to reserve the final minutes for revision to avoid avoidable errors.
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