Checklist for Schools – SAFAL 2025-26: A Step-by-Step Guide for Smooth Implementation

Published on November 4, 2025 by @mritxperts

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched the Structured Assessment for Analysing Learning Levels (SAFAL) — a competency-based assessment system aimed at evaluating students’ learning outcomes effectively. For the academic year 2025–26, the SAFAL Key Stage Assessment (KSA) will be conducted in digital mode, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and better data-driven insights.

This article provides a complete checklist for schools to prepare and conduct the SAFAL assessment smoothly, covering pre-assessment setup, assessment-day procedures, and post-assessment responsibilities.

What is SAFAL?

SAFAL (Structured Assessment for Analysing Learning Levels) is a CBSE initiative that measures the competency and progress of students across different school years. It helps schools identify learning gaps and provides diagnostic feedback to improve teaching-learning practices.

Unlike traditional exams, SAFAL focuses on understanding and application rather than rote memorization. The feedback received helps schools align with the competency-based education model promoted by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

A. Pre-Assessment Preparation

Before the commencement of the SAFAL digital assessment, schools must ensure their technical infrastructure and logistics are ready. Below is a checklist of essential tasks:

  • ✅ Ensure all computers and technical systems are fully functional and meet the specifications mentioned in CBSE Circular No. Acad-42/2025.
  • ✅ Install the latest versions of AnyDesk and Zoom on the school server to enable remote support from the CBSE SAFAL team.
  • ✅ Disable firewall and antivirus on the school server machine to prevent connectivity issues.
  • ✅ Download and install the SAFAL software on the designated school server.
  • ✅ Note down the URL of the school server portal from the SAFAL control panel.
  • ✅ Check that the server is accessible from all client machines.
  • ✅ Ensure a stable and high-speed internet connection for smooth assessment operations.
  • ✅ Download the roll list for all student batches, including names, dates, start and end times.
  • ✅ Inform students well in advance about their assessment schedule.
  • ✅ Brief all invigilators and staff members (preferably from non-teaching sampled grades) about their duties and timing.

B. During the SAFAL Assessment

On the day of the assessment, schools must ensure a controlled, fair, and organized environment. Here’s what needs to be done step-by-step:

  • 🖥 Inspect the computer lab to confirm it is clean, well-lit, ventilated, and free from any unfair means.
  • 🔄 Import the assessment test form from the school server to client machines for the respective batch.
  • 🔑 Note the test pin and download student login credentials (login ID and password).
  • 🖨 Print login credentials and display them in the lab or distribute them individually.
  • 🌐 Open Google Chrome on all client machines and access the school server portal.
  • 🧍‍♂️ Allow the batch of students scheduled for the test to enter the lab.
  • 📋 Mark attendance and assign each student to their respective seat as per the roll list.
  • 🔐 Students log in using their assigned credentials.
  • 📣 Read the assessment instructions aloud before beginning the test.
  • 🧾 On the first day, students must complete the Student Background Questionnaire (only once).
  • 🧑‍🏫 The nodal officer announces the test pin for students to begin the assessment.
  • ✅ Ensure all students submit their responses and log out properly after completion.
  • 🕒 Once the batch is done, end the assessment session from the school server.

C. Post-Assessment and Other Key Activities

After the SAFAL assessment, certain additional tasks must be completed:

  • ✍️ Subject teachers who taught Class 6 and Class 9 students in the previous academic year (i.e., Class 5 and Class 8) must fill and submit the Teacher Questionnaire within the given timeline.
  • 🏫 The School Principal or Head must fill and submit the School Questionnaire within the assigned window.

These questionnaires are crucial as they provide valuable insights into the learning environment and instructional strategies adopted by the school.

For Queries and Support

In case of any technical or administrative issues during SAFAL 2025–26, schools can contact:

📞 Helpline Numbers:
+91 9968313254, +91 9968663255
🕓 Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Monday to Friday)
📧 Email: safal2025@cbseshiksha.in

For further information, schools can refer to CBSE Circular No. Acad-42/2025 available at:
🔗 https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/42_Circular_2025.pdf

Conclusion

The SAFAL 2025–26 digital assessment represents a significant step forward in transforming Indian school education towards a competency-based system. By following the checklist above, schools can ensure a seamless and effective administration of the SAFAL test while supporting CBSE’s mission to enhance learning outcomes through evidence-based assessment.