Kerala introduces open-book exams for school assessments

The Kerala government has introduced new assessment reforms for schools starting in the 2025-26 academic year. Open-book, on-demand, and online exams will be options for Class VIII students, alongside traditional assessments. Formative assessments will account for 20% of the total score, with various methods like oral tests, projects, and group assessments included. The grading system has also changed, with five grades based on performance. Students must score at least 30% in all subjects to be promoted to Class IX. The new assessments will focus on analytical, critical, and creative thinking, incorporating questions from current events and various subjects.