Prayagraj: More than 52 lakh students will appear in high school and intermediate examinations to be conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Secondary Education Board, commonly called the UP Board, in 2026.The UP Board has released registration figures, showing a total of 52,30,297 students appearing for exams. This includes 27,50,945 students for class 10 (14,38,682 boys and 13,12,263 girls) and 24,79,352 students for class 12 (13,03,012 boys and 11,76,340 girls). Compared to last year, there is an increase of 18,780 students in high school, but a decline of 2,25,657 students in intermediate. In 2025, a total of 54,37,174 students registered — 27,32,165 for high school and 27,05,009 for intermediate.UP Board secretary Bhagwati Singh attributes the decline in class 12 students for the 2026 Board exam to various factors, stating, “The number of examinees can fluctuate, but we’ll analyze the reasons behind this decline and compile district-wise data to better understand the trend.”Officials said the dip in registrations will lead to a proportional reduction in the number of exam centres. On average, each centre accommodates 500 to 1,000 candidates, meaning over 200 centres could be cut this year. In 2025, 8,140 centres were set up for 54.37 lakh students, while in 2024, 8,265 centres were created for 55.25 lakh examinees.The UP Board is gearing up for examinations, with preparations in full swing. Key tasks include preparing question papers, moderation, and printing answer sheets. According to the board secretary, the registration process has been completed, and the evaluation phase is currently underway. Preparations are being closely monitored to ensure the smooth and fair conduct of the examinations.Meanwhile, 49,46,134 students of class 9 and 11 have completed advance registration for the upcoming academic year. The Board allowed correction of errors in class 10 and 12 registration forms until Oct 31, and for class 9 and 11 until Nov 5.