CBSE Exams

Is Calculator Allowed in CBSE Class 12 Accountancy Board Exam 2024-25?

  • March 14, 2025
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New CBSE Calculator Policy: What Students Need to Know

Calculators help make calculations easier during exams. With subjects becoming more complex and the need for accurate answers increasing, many students often ask, "Are calculators allowed in CBSE Class 12 board exams?"

While the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) does not allow calculators in most subjects, there is a new proposal to allow them in the Class 12 Accountancy exam. This change aims to reduce the burden of manual calculations and help students focus more on understanding concepts. Let's explore this in detail.

 

CBSE's Plan to Introduce This Rule

The idea of allowing calculators in CBSE Class 12 Accountancy exams has been under consideration for quite some time. The move aims to reduce the stress of manual calculations and help students focus more on conceptual understanding and financial analysis. The CBSE curriculum committee approved this proposal in November 2023, but it is still awaiting final approval from the governing body.

How Will Calculators Help Students in Exams?

  • Reduces stress by minimizing manual calculations.
  • Helps in managing time efficiently.
  • Increases accuracy in financial and numerical computations.
  • Allows students to focus on concepts and analysis.
  • Develops confidence and reduces exam anxiety.
  • Prepares students for higher education, where calculators are widely used.

Benefit

Impact on Students

Reduced StressFocus on conceptual understanding
Time ManagementComplete exams faster
Increase AccuracyMinimized calculation errors
Better PerformanceImproved quality of answers
Develops ConfidenceReduced exam anxiety
Higher Education PreparationFamiliarity with calculator usage

CBSE Board Exam Rules 2024-25

  • Use of transparent stationery pouch.
  • No electronic devices like smartphones or smartwatches.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before the exam.
  • Only blue or black ink pens are allowed.
  • 75% minimum attendance is required.
  • Rough work should be done in the right margin of the answer sheet.
  • Students must follow the dress code (school uniform for regular students).
  • Admit Card and ID are mandatory.

An admit card, also known as a hall ticket, holds important details about a student. It acts as proof of identity, as it is verified by both the school and the CBSE board. Check below to learn more.

Calculator Policy for CBSE Class 12 Exam

Currently, calculators are not allowed in any subject, except for students with special needs. However, the CBSE curriculum committee has approved the use of calculators for Class 12 Accountancy exams. The final decision is pending approval from the CBSE governing body. If approved, only basic calculators will be allowed, and detailed guidelines will be issued.

Why Are Calculators Restricted in CBSE Class 12 Exams?

CBSE restricts calculator use for several reasons:

  • Enhancing Mental Skills: The board aims to develop strong mental math skills and problem-solving abilities.
  • Maintaining Fairness: Allowing calculators for all subjects could give some students an unfair advantage.
  • Focusing on Concepts: Without calculators, students are encouraged to understand the core concepts and formulas rather than relying on devices.
  • Preventing Cheating: Restricting calculators reduces the risk of misuse or accessing unauthorized information during exams.

Types of Calculators Allowed in Exam

If the proposal is approved, only basic, non-programmable calculators will be permitted for the Class 12 Accountancy exam. The allowed calculators will be limited to performing simple arithmetic functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Advanced features like graph plotting, equation solving, and memory storage will not be allowed.

Features of Allowed Calculators:

  • Basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
  • Percentage and square root functions.
  • No scientific functions like trigonometry or logarithms.
  • No programmable or graphing functions.
  • Non-memory storage.
  • Non-internet connected.

CBSE is expected to release a list of specific models or brands that will be allowed to avoid any confusion during the examination.

Subjects That Need Calculators in Exams

  • Accountancy: For financial and analytical calculations.
  • Mathematics: For complex algebraic and trigonometric problems.
  • Physics: For precise formula-based calculations.
  • Economics: For statistical data analysis.
  • Business Studies: For numerical data evaluation.

Possible Reasons for Bringing This Rule

  • To reduce the cognitive load on students.
  • To focus more on critical analysis and conceptual understanding.
  • To align with international standards and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
  • To improve exam performance and accuracy.
  • To adapt to evolving educational practices and technology.

Stay Ahead in Your CBSE Prep with Interval Learning

The CBSE's decision to allow calculators in Class 12 Accountancy exams can help reduce stress and improve performance. But it's important for students to follow the official guidelines to avoid confusion.

Want to stay updated with the latest CBSE policies? Join Interval Learning, where we offer one-on-one tuition and group sessions to help you excel in your exams. Our expert tutors keep you informed about important updates, like the calculator policy, and guide you toward success.

Enroll now and make your preparation smooth and stress-free!

Frequently Asked Questions

Except for students with special needs. However, there is a proposal for Accountancy exams.

Only basic, non-programmable calculators with simple arithmetic functions.

No, the proposal is limited to Accountancy.

The final approval is pending from the CBSE’s governing body.

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