Many kids in the UAE know that the CBSE curriculum is challenging, strict, and takes much work. When parents see their kids having trouble with long texts, tricky test patterns, and high expectations, they often ask, “Why is CBSE so hard?” At KaurOnlineEnglish, we work directly with students who follow the CBSE board and know exactly what these challenges are.
In this post, we speak about why CBSE seems hard, what makes its standards so high, and how students in the UAE can get over these challenges with the right guidance and strategies.
1. Strong Academic Rigour and High-Level Syllabus
One of the biggest reasons CBSE is considered hard is its rigorous and detailed syllabus. Subjects like Mathematics, Science, and English require deep conceptual understanding rather than simple memorization.
Why this feels tough:
- Concepts build on each other, leaving little room for gaps.
- Students are expected to master theory and apply it to real-life problems.
- The curriculum prepares students for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and CUET, making the difficulty level naturally higher.
For expatriate students in the UAE, balancing school, after-school activities, and assignments adds to the pressure.
2. Application-Based Questions Instead of Rote Learning
CBSE has moved away from memorization-based assessments. Today’s exam papers include:
- Case studies.
- Analytical questions.
- Assertion-reason questions.
- Critical-thinking tasks.
This shift challenges students to think, not just remember.
Why students struggle:
Even if they study the chapter thoroughly, they must be able to apply knowledge in new and unfamiliar situations. Many UAE students following CBSE find this transition difficult without proper guidance and practice.
3. Strict Marking Schemes and High Expectations
CBSE examiners follow a very strict marking scheme, especially in subjects like English.
Common issues include:
- Marks are deducted for missing keywords.
- Presentation and structure matter.
- Answers must align exactly with the marking guidelines.
In English, for example, students lose marks due to grammar slips, weak structuring, or lack of precision, something we at KaurOnlineEnglish help students improve through targeted writing practice.
4. Large Syllabus Coverage in Limited Time
The syllabus for each class is extensive, especially in Grades 9 to 12. Students often feel rushed to complete chapters, revise, and still find time for practice papers.
Why time becomes a problem:
- Frequent tests, assignments, and projects
- Long school hours
- Short preparation windows before board exams
UAE students also face the challenge of adjusting to school timings, weekend differences, and additional extracurricular commitments.
5. Competitive Environment and High Parental Expectations
CBSE is known for competition. Students often compare marks, ranks, and performance, adding emotional pressure.
Challenges include:
- Trying to score in the 90s across all subjects.
- Meeting parental expectations.
- Keeping up with peers who excel in tuition and external coaching.
This pressure can make even average-level tasks feel overwhelming.
6. English Language Expectations Are Increasing
Subjects like English are no longer “easy-scoring” papers. With grammar, comprehension, literature analysis, and creative writing, students must develop:
- Clear communication.
- Critical thinking.
- Strong vocabulary.
- Formatting and writing accuracy.
At KaurOnlineEnglish, we see many students lose marks not because they don’t know the content, but because they struggle with expression and structure.
7. Transition Phases Are Tougher, Especially for UAE Expat Students
Students who switch from different curriculums (such as British, American, or IB) to CBSE often struggle because CBSE:
- Moves faster.
- Covers more content.
- Has higher expectations in Math and Science.
- Requires more writing-based answers.
Even students who have been with CBSE for years may find Grade 9, 10, and 11 particularly difficult because of the sudden jump in complexity.
8. Lack of Consistent Revision and Exam Practice
Many students only start preparing right before exams. However, CBSE requires:
- Continuous revision.
- Practice with past papers.
- Regular mock tests.
Without this, students feel the workload piling up and the concepts becoming harder to retain.
How Students in the UAE Can Manage CBSE Difficulty
Although CBSE is challenging, it is manageable with the right support system. Here are helpful strategies:
Follow a structured study routine
Break chapters into smaller parts and revise regularly.
Practice application-based questions
Focus on HOTS, case studies, and sample papers.
Strengthen English writing skills.
Learn formats, grammar rules, and exam-specific techniques.
Join expert-led online coaching.
Platforms like KaurOnlineEnglish offer personalized learning tailored to the CBSE pattern.
Don’t wait for final exams.
Consistent weekly practice makes the curriculum much easier.
Final Thoughts:
CBSE is hard because it wants to make pupils who can think for themselves, solve problems, and do well in school. The program is hard, but it gets students ready for college and jobs around the world.
Students can do very well if they get the correct help, especially with courses like English.KaurOnlineEnglish offers expert, student-friendly tutoring for UAE learners who need help with their English writing, reading, literature, or test-taking skills.
