What Is the SAFAL Test?
The Structured Assessment for Analyzing Learning (SAFAL) is a CBSE initiative introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It focuses on competency-based learning, moving away from rote memorization and traditional exams. Instead of testing how much students can memorize, SAFAL checks how well they understand and apply key concepts in real-life situations.
Large-Scale Rollout in Noida
This year, over 150 CBSE-affiliated schools in Noida will participate in the SAFAL assessment — the first major rollout since the pilot phase ended last year.
The test will begin on November 10, 2025, for the 2025–26 academic session. Students from Classes 6 and 9 will take the assessment.
Digital Mode with Flexible Options
Most schools will conduct the exam in digital mode, giving students a modern and convenient testing experience. However, some schools may still choose a pen-and-paper format, and a separate schedule for those schools will be shared later by CBSE officials.
Purpose of the Assessment
The SAFAL test is not an exam for grades or competition. It’s a diagnostic tool designed to help schools and teachers identify where students stand in their learning journey.
CBSE City Coordinator Neha Sharma explained,
“The goal is to understand students’ learning outcomes and guide schools on areas that need improvement.”
This approach helps teachers fine-tune their lessons, fill learning gaps, and focus on conceptual clarity rather than exam pressure.
Why SAFAL Matters
- Promotes understanding and problem-solving over memorization.
- Encourages teacher feedback and improvement in classroom methods.
- Prepares students for real-world learning and higher-level thinking.
- Helps CBSE schools align with NEP 2020 goals of competency-based education.
From November 10, students in Noida’s CBSE schools will take part in a new type of test that focuses on how well they learn and think, not just how much they memorize. SAFAL is all about improving learning quality, helping teachers guide students better, and creating a more meaningful education system.
