The CBSE has officially released the final date sheet for the board examinations of Classes 10 and 12 for the year 2026. According to the schedule, the exams for both classes will begin on 17 February 2026.
What the Date Sheet Says
Here are the key points of the CBSE Date Sheet 2026:
- The Class 10 and Class 12 board exams of CBSE will start on 17 February 2026.
- For Class 10: The first phase is between 17 February and ~9 March 2026.
- There will be a second phase for Class 10 (improvement/second exam) scheduled from mid-May to early June (around 15 May to 1 June) in some reports.
- For Class 12: The exams will run from 17 February to ~April 2026 in many streams.
- Timing of exams: Most papers will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with some subjects (painting, automotive, etc) ending at 12:30 p.m.
- The official PDF of the final date sheet has been released on the CBSE website.
Why this matters
- With the date sheet out, students in Classes 10 and 12 have clear timelines to plan their preparation, revision, and mock exams.
- Early announcement gives institutions, teachers and students more time to coordinate schedules, especially practicals, projects, and revision gaps.
- For parents and schools, knowing the exact dates helps in planning leave, transport, logistics, and stress-management.
- The new structure (in Class 10) with possibly two sessions gives flexibility in case of failure/miss.
What’s new for 2026
- For the first time (or being strengthened) the CBSE appears to be aligning its board exam schedule with reforms under the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020).
- The two-session approach for Class 10 (main + second/improvement) is being implemented to reduce the academic year loss for students who miss or fail the main exam.
- Earlier notification: The date sheet has been published well in advance (several months) compared to earlier years to give more lead time to all stakeholders.
Detailed Steps to Download the Date Sheet
- Visit the official CBSE website: cbse.gov.in (or the CBSE exam-portal) where official notifications are released.
- Look for the link titled “Date Sheet for Class X & XII Board Examinations – 2026” (or similar).
- Download the PDF file and save it for reference.
- Check subject-wise exam dates, timings, subject codes and special instructions.
- Cross-verify with your school/principal to ensure there are no changes or updates (sometimes adjustments happen).
Key Things Students Should Note
- Check subject codes and timings carefully: For example, some papers end at 12:30 p.m. rather than 1:30.
- Revision gaps: Use the gap between papers to revise effectively, sleep well, and stay healthy.
- Practical exams/projects: These often happen before the main written exams — ensure they are completed on time.
- Admit cards: Ensure you download/have your admit card and it matches the schedule printed in your date sheet.
- Exam rules: Follow the CBSE guidelines strictly (no unfair means, punctuality, stationery, etc).
- Backup plans: With the second session for Class 10, students who feel underprepared may plan smartly.
Mental health: With boards approaching for many students, managing stress is important — proper sleep, breaks, exercise help.
FAQs (based on the released details)
A: They begin on 17 February 2026. (Sources: Asianet Newsable, The Times of India)
A: The exams for Class 12 are scheduled up to around early April 2026 in many streams. (Source: moneycontrol.com)
A: Yes. The first session is from 17 Feb to approx. 9 March 2026. A second session (for improvement) is scheduled around mid-May to early June. (Source: Shiksha)
A: Generally 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Many specialised subjects may end at 12:30 p.m. (Source: NDTV)
A: Visit CBSE’s official website, look for the relevant PDF, download and keep for reference. (Steps described above)
Preparing Smartly After Date Sheet Release
Now that you know when the exam is, here are some tips to make your preparation more effective:
- Create a revision timetable: With the exam dates fixed, map out daily/weekly revision for each subject.
- Prioritise strong/weak subjects: Use the gap before each exam to focus on weaker areas.
- Mock tests and previous year papers: Practice under exam conditions (time limit, no distractions).
- Maintain health: Healthy diet, proper sleep, short breaks between study sessions.
- Stay updated with instructions: Keep checking for any last-minute changes in date sheet or exam venue.
- Stay calm: With the schedule out, much of the uncertainty is gone — channel your focus into preparation rather than worrying.
Final Word
The CBSE Date Sheet 2026 for Classes 10 & 12 is a landmark announcement for students, teachers and parents alike. With exams starting from 17 February 2026, you have a clear timeline to prepare. Use this opportunity well — plan, revise, practise, and ensure you’re ready both academically and mentally. With proper strategy and calmness, you can approach the board exams with confidence.
Wishing all students the very best for their board exams ahead!