The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially published the tentative date sheets for the 2026 Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations. This early announcement comes as a major relief for students and schools, offering plenty of time to plan strategies, revisions, and exam preparations.
When Will the Exams Be Held?
According to the provisional schedule shared by CBSE:
- Class 10 & 12 exams will begin from February 17, 2026.
- Class 10 exams are expected to wrap up by the third week of March 2026.
- Class 12 exams are likely to conclude on April 4, 2026.
- A second exam session for Class 10 is planned between May 15 and June 1, 2026, for students who wish to improve their marks or reappear for specific subjects.
This two-exam model for Class 10 is being introduced to reduce pressure on students and give them an opportunity to perform better.
Important Features of CBSE 2026 Exams
- Dual Exam Format for Class 10
Students will sit for one compulsory exam in February–March. Those unsatisfied with their performance can opt for the second session in May–June. - Massive Participation
Over 45 lakh students are expected to take part in the 2026 board exams, covering nearly 204 subjects across India and overseas. - Faster Evaluation
CBSE has confirmed that checking of answer scripts will start 10 days after each exam and results will be processed within 12 days, ensuring quicker result announcements. - Alignment with NEP
The board has designed the new schedule in line with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), focusing on flexibility and reduced exam stress. - Tentative Status
These schedules are provisional. Students, teachers, and parents must keep an eye on the official CBSE website for any last-minute changes.
How Should Students Prepare?
- Begin Structured Revision Now: With dates in sight, divide study hours according to subjects and difficulty levels.
- Use the First Exam Wisely: Treat it as your primary chance; if needed, the second attempt can be used for improvement.
- Stay Updated: Follow CBSE’s official website and trusted education portals like ExamJankari to avoid misinformation.
- Balance Study & Rest: Continuous preparation is key, but adequate breaks will prevent burnout during the long exam season.
What Schools Need to Do
- Plan Academic Calendars around the extended exam period from February to June.
- Guide Students on the two-exam model so they can make informed decisions.
- Prepare Teachers for Evaluation, since the checking process will be compressed into shorter timelines.