UP Board Exams 2026: New Rules to Curb Cheating with Aadhaar Verification
UP Board Introduces Stricter Exam Regulations
In a significant move to enhance the integrity of the examination process, the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP) has implemented stricter regulations for the UP Board Exams 2026. Students taking the Class 10 (High School) and Class 12 (Intermediate) exams will now be mandated to present their Aadhaar card along with their admit card at the examination venues.
Mandatory Aadhaar Card for Exam Entry
Previously, students could enter exam centres by showing only their admit cards. However, starting with the 2026 board exams, this will no longer suffice. Each student must present a photo-based Aadhaar card in addition to their admit card.
Examination officials will verify the details and photograph on the admit card against the Aadhaar card. Failure to provide an Aadhaar card may result in denial of entry into the examination hall.
Combating Impersonation with Aadhaar Verification
Despite stringent monitoring, impersonation has been a persistent issue. This new regulation aims to eliminate candidates attempting to take exams under false identities.
Education authorities report numerous instances of proxy candidates during UP Board examinations. Even with the deployment of flying squads and surveillance teams, some unauthorized individuals manage to gain entry.
With Aadhaar verification, the following benefits are expected:
More accurate identity checks
Instant identification of impersonators
Blocking unauthorized candidates at the entrance
Enhanced Measures for Cheating Prevention
In addition to Aadhaar verification, UPMSP has introduced several measures to ensure smooth and fair examinations:
CCTV surveillance at all exam centres, monitored from district headquarters
Geo-tagging of exam centres for real-time tracking
Improved security for question papers and answer sheets
Revised answer book formats to prevent manipulation
The board is also set to issue QR code-based identity cards to centre superintendents, invigilators, and examiners to ensure that only authorized personnel are present at the examination centres.
UP Board Exam Schedule for 2026
The UP Board Class 10 and Class 12 examinations are scheduled to take place from February 18 to March 12, 2026.
This year, a total of 52,30,297 students have registered for the exams, making it one of the largest board examinations in India.
High School (Class 10): 27,50,945 students
Intermediate (Class 12): 24,79,352 students
Given the scale of the exams, the board has implemented additional measures to ensure order and fairness.
Practical Exam Schedule for Class 12 Students
For Class 12 students, practical examinations will occur in two phases:
Phase 1: January 24, 2026, to February 1, 2026
Phase 2: February 2, 2026, to February 9, 2026
These practicals will be conducted under strict supervision, with specific guidelines for examiners and centres.
Exam Centres Across Uttar Pradesh
To accommodate the large number of candidates, UPMSP has established 8,033 examination centres throughout the state. Each centre will adhere to uniform rules regarding surveillance, verification, and invigilation.
Authorities have been instructed to strictly comply with the board’s guidelines, with any lapses potentially leading to disciplinary action.
Guidelines for Students
Students preparing for the UP Board Exams 2026 should:
Ensure their Aadhaar card details are accurate and up-to-date
Bring both admit card and Aadhaar card on exam days
Arrive at the exam centre early to avoid last-minute verification issues
Students without an Aadhaar card are encouraged to complete the enrollment process promptly to avoid complications.
Conclusion
With the introduction of Aadhaar verification, CCTV monitoring, geo-tagging, and QR-coded staff IDs, the UP Board is committed to a zero tolerance policy against cheating and impersonation in 2026. While these new regulations may seem stringent, they are intended to safeguard genuine students and uphold the credibility of one of India’s largest board examinations.
Students are urged to stay informed, adhere to the rules, and concentrate on their studies without unnecessary stress.