'Students who take the examination will get a certificate from CBSE. But I believe a majority will not like to go for it.

'If a student wants to shift to a different Board other than CBSE or wants to join pre-university degree (junior college), he or she can take an examination by demanding it through his school. The certificate thereafter can be used for the above purpose,' Sibal explained.

'This examination on demand can be conducted both online and offline. I believe this (new system) will free the students from the stress attached to the board examination preparations.'

Referring to Class 10 exam for this academic year, he said though there will be an examination, students will be graded on a nine-point scale. The system, he said, would have A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D, E1 and E2 grades.

A1 grade will be considered 'exceptional', A2 will be 'excellent', B1 'very good', B2 'good', C1 'fair' and C2 'average'.

Grade D students will be classified 'below-average' and those graded E1 will get a 'needs improvement' label. Those at the bottom of the pile will get an 'unsatisfactory' remark on the certificate.

According to the authorities, the 'exceptional' grade will be equivalent to a score of 91-100 percent in the conventional exams.