The Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examinations for Class 10 began across schools in Kerala on March 5, with more than eight lakh students appearing for the crucial board assessments.

Extending his best wishes to students, V Sivankutty urged candidates to approach the examinations with confidence rather than anxiety, describing the tests as an opportunity for students to demonstrate the knowledge they have gained over the years.

Alongside the SSLC examinations, the Higher Secondary Plus One examinations also commenced on March 5, while the Plus Two examinations are scheduled to begin on March 6.

According to official figures, 4,17,497 students are appearing for the SSLC examinations this year, which are being conducted at 3,047 centres across the state. An additional 633 students from Lakshadweep have also registered for the SSLC examination.

A similar number of candidates—633 students in the Gulf region—had enrolled for the examinations, but their tests have been postponed due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

The SSLC examinations will continue until March 30. The Education Department has scheduled valuation camps for answer scripts between April 7 and April 28, with results expected to be announced in May.

In a Facebook post, Minister Sivankutty noted that this year’s candidates are appearing for the exams after studying with revised textbooks introduced under the New Curriculum Framework 2023, implemented after an 11-year gap.

The updated evaluation system, he said, focuses on assessing key 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, analytical ability and creativity.

Reassuring students, the minister said there has been no change in the examination structure this year and emphasised that the Class 10 examination is primarily a qualifying test for higher studies. He also reiterated that the state government has ensured sufficient Plus One seats for all students in Kerala.

Advising students to maintain proper sleep and healthy eating habits during the examination period, Sivankutty said the SSLC examination should not be viewed as the final test in life.

“Many opportunities lie ahead. Enter the examination hall with a calm mind,” he said.

Meanwhile, participation in the Higher Secondary examinations is also significant. A total of 4,11,025 students have registered for the Plus One examination, while 4,52,437 candidates will appear for the Plus Two examination, which is scheduled to conclude on March 28.

The SSLC results are expected to be declared by the third week of May 2026. Online applications for Plus One admissions for the 2026–27 academic year will open a day after the announcement of the SSLC results.