Breaking: CBSE Class 10, 12 Board Exams 2026 Schedule Released

The Central Board of Secondary Education has released its Class 10 and 12 board exam schedules for 2026, a full 146 days before the start of examinations. This significant announcement from CBSE comes about five months ahead of the actual board exam date, providing ample time for board exam preparation.

The CBSE’s date sheet 2026 shows that both Class 10 and 12 board examinations will start from February 17, 2026. Students’ class 10th board exams will end by March 18, 2026, and Class 12 exams will continue until April 4, 2026. This news brings much-needed clarity to millions of students preparing for these vital assessments.

The board expects around 45 lakh candidates to take these examinations, which cover 204 subjects across both Class 10 and 12 levels. Students now have sufficient time to plan their study schedules, review cbse sample papers, and enhance their time management skills for the upcoming exams.

CBSE releases 2026 board exam schedule for CBSE Class 10 and 12

The Central Board of Secondary Education has revealed the complete board exam datesheet for the 2026 board exams, which shows major changes from previous years. Students and schools now have 146 days before exams start, giving them more time to prepare than ever before.

Exam dates announced five months in advance

CBSE has released tentative exam schedules for 2026 board examinations almost five months early. The complete timetable shows exams will run from February 17 to July 15, 2026. These include four types of assessments:

1. Main Examinations for Classes 10 and 12
2. Examinations for Sports Students (Class 12)
3. Second Board Examinations (Class 10)
4. Supplementary Examinations (Class 12)

CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj says, “This initiative offers multiple advantages to all stakeholders involved in the examination process”. Students can now create well-laid-out study plans that will boost their performance. Schools can also line up their academic calendars better, especially when they assign teachers for exam and evaluation duties.

Teachers will find it easier to plan their personal schedules and vacations. These changes match the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s goals to reduce the pressure of board exams.

The schedule comes from registration data of Class 9 and Class 11 students for 2025. CBSE expects about 45 lakh students to take exams in 204 subjects in 2026. Students will come from India and 26 other countries.

Single shift timing confirmed for all exams

Both CBSE Class 10 and 12 exams will happen in one shift each day. Exams will start at 10:30 am. Most end at 1:30 pm, but subjects like painting and vocational courses finish at 12:30 pm.

Class 10th main board exams run from February 17 to March 9, 2026. Mathematics (Standard and Basic) is the first exam. Class 12 exams also begin February 17 but continue until April 9, 2026. Biotechnology, Entrepreneurship, and Shorthand (English and Hindi) are the first subjects.

The second board exam for Class 10 starts May 15, 2026, with Mathematics and ends June 1, 2026, with compartment subjects. These exams follow the same timing – 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Bhardwaj points out that “the released schedules are tentative and final date sheets will be issued after schools submit the final list of candidates”. All the same, this early announcement helps students and schools plan better for what’s usually a stressful exam season.

Results should be out by July 15, 2026. Answer sheet evaluation begins about 10 days after each exam and takes 12 days to complete.

CBSE Class 10 board exams to be held in two phases

CBSE has transformed its traditional examination pattern by introducing a dual exam system for class 10th students starting 2026. This new system with two board exams will give students more chances to succeed and help reduce exam stress.

Phase 1 scheduled from February 17 to March 9, 2026

The first round of CBSE Class 10 board exams starts February 17, 2026, with Mathematics (both Standard and Basic) as the first subject. The schedule for other major subjects lines up as follows:

• Social Science on February 21, 2026 (Saturday)
• Science on February 24, 2026 (Tuesday)
• English on March 2, 2026 (Monday)

The original plan had these exams ending by March 6, 2026, but recent updates suggest they might run until March 9, 2026. Every registered Class 10 student must take these exams, with about 26,60,000 students expected to write them.

CBSE’s plan covers all 84 subjects offered at Class 10 level. Each exam will run from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

Phase 2 scheduled from May 15 to June 1, 2026

CBSE will hold a second set of exams starting May 15, 2026. These exams follow the same order as Phase 1:

• May 15: Mathematics (Standard and Basic)
• May 19: Science
• May 22: Social Science
• May 26 and May 30: Language subjects
• Various dates between May 16-June 1: Compartment subjects

Phase 2 runs for 16 days, while Phase 1 takes 18 days. The gap between phases lets CBSE process Phase 1 results before Phase 2 begins.

Phase 2 optional for improvement and compartment

Phase 2 isn’t mandatory for everyone. It serves two groups of students.

Students who passed Phase 1 can use it as a chance to boost their scores. They can retake up to three core subjects including Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and languages. This helps students focus on subjects where they want better marks.

The May exams also work as compartment exams for students who failed in one or two subjects during Phase 1. Students can complete Class 10 without losing a year, which saves their academic session.

CBSE will announce Phase 1 results in April 2026, and Phase 2 results by June 30, 2026. This system matches the National Education Policy’s goal to make board exams less stressful.

CBSE will check about 1,72,90,000 answer sheets across both phases. This new approach changes how CBSE handles Class 10 assessments and gives students more flexibility to show what they know.

CBSE Class 12 board exams to run from February 17 to April 9

CBSE Class 12 board examinations in 2026 will have a single-phase format, unlike Class 10’s dual-examination pattern. Students will take their Senior School Certificate Examination from February 17 to April 9, 2026. The seven-week window gives them enough time between major subject papers.

Single-phase exam for Class 12 students

CBSE has stuck with its traditional single examination cycle for Class 12 students, different from Class 10’s two-phase approach. About 20 lakh students will take these exams. The board’s broader examination plan will test around 45 lakh candidates in 204 subjects at both Class 10 and 12 levels.

Students will write all Class 12 exams in one time slot from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. These timings apply to all subjects at exam centers in India and 26 other countries.

Answer script evaluation starts about 10 days after each subject’s exam and takes 12 days to complete. This approach helps declare results on time, expected in May 2026 for Class 12 students.

Stream-wise subject distribution explained

CBSE’s date sheet 2026 spaces out major papers to give students proper preparation time. Specialty subjects like Biotechnology, Entrepreneurship, and Shorthand kick off the schedule on February 17, with Physical Education following on February 18.

Core subjects are spread throughout the schedule:

• Science Stream: Physics (February 20), Chemistry (February 28), Mathematics (March 9), and Biology (March 27)
• Commerce Stream: Business Studies (February 21), Accountancy (March 28), and Economics (March 18)
• Humanities Stream: Geography (February 26), Political Science (March 23), History (March 30), and Sociology (April 4)

Language papers come mid-schedule. English Elective and Core papers are set for March 12, Hindi Elective for March 14, and Hindi Core for March 16. Regional and foreign languages follow on March 17.

The date sheet includes many vocational subjects. Fashion Studies (February 24), Automotive (February 25), Tourism (March 13), Information Technology (March 25), and Web Application (April 7) are some key ones.

Specialized subjects round off the final week. Knowledge Tradition and Practices of India, Banking, and Electronics Technology are scheduled for April 6. French, Retail, Taxation, and Textile Design follow on April 8. Sanskrit Core, Multi-media, and Data Science conclude the cycle on April 9.

Each exam paper has specific subject codes – Physics (code 42), Chemistry (code 43), and Mathematics (code 041). Students should check these codes when reviewing their exam schedules. This detailed scheduling lets students plan their studies effectively.

Though this schedule might see minor tweaks, major changes are unlikely. Schools need to submit their complete candidate lists before CBSE releases the final date sheet. Students should download the official date sheet from CBSE’s website and double-check their subject codes.

CBSE’s careful planning shows its steadfast dedication to creating a well-laid-out exam framework. The board balances academic standards with student wellbeing to reduce exam stress.

CBSE date sheet 2026 includes over 200 subjects

CBSE’s 2026 examination schedule showcases its broad curriculum with 204 subjects for Class 10 and 12. The board expects 45 lakh candidates from India and 26 other countries to take these exams. Students can choose from a well-laid-out subject framework that supports various academic interests and career goals.

Breakdown of core, language, and vocational subjects

CBSE’s date sheet for 2026 shows an impressive range of subjects that go way beyond the reach and influence of traditional academics. Class 10 curriculum splits into these categories:

• Languages (Group-L): This group has 43 different languages. Students can pick from English, Hindi, Sanskrit, regional languages like Bhutia, Lepcha, and Tangkhul, or foreign languages such as French, German, and Japanese.
• Main Subjects (Group-A1): The core academic subjects are Mathematics (Standard and Basic versions), Science, and Social Science.
• Other Academic Electives (Group-A2): Students can choose from Carnatic and Hindustani Music, Painting, Home Science, and Computer Applications.

Class 12’s framework offers even more choices:

• 43 Skill Subjects at senior secondary level. These include Retail, Tourism, Beauty & Wellness, and state-of-the-art fields like Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Design Thinking & Innovation.
• Languages (Group-L) offers 40 different options. Students have great flexibility to choose their preferred language medium.
• Academic Electives (Group-A) range from traditional subjects like Physics and Chemistry to specialized areas like Legal Studies, Fashion Studies, and National Cadet Corps.

The vocational education component features 22 Skill subjects in Classes 9-10 and 43 Skill subjects in Classes 11-12. Each skill-focused course targets specific job roles. To name just one example, see Beauty & Wellness (Code 807) which trains students to become Beauty Therapists.

Exam duration and subject codes detailed

CBSE’s date sheet assigns unique codes to each subject for standardized identification. Class 12’s subject codes follow specific patterns:

• Language subjects use codes such as 001 (English Elective), 301 (English Core), 002 (Hindi Elective), and 302 (Hindi Core).
• Academic electives use two-digit codes: 041 (Mathematics), 042 (Physics), and 055 (Accountancy).
• Skill subjects use three-digit codes starting with 8: 801 (Retail), 807 (Beauty & Wellness), and 843 (Artificial Intelligence).

Most theory examinations run for three hours (10:30 AM to 1:30 PM). Some specialized subjects like Yoga (Code 841) and Data Science (Code 844) take two hours (10:30 AM to 12:30 PM).

Subject marking schemes vary by type:

1. 80-20 split: English, Sociology, and Business Studies give 80 marks for theory and 20 for practical assessment.
2. 70-30 split: Science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology allocate 70 marks for theory and 30 for practical components.

Skill subjects typically follow a 60-40 ratio (theory-practical) or an equal 50-50 split based on the subject’s nature.

This diverse subject range shows CBSE’s steadfast dedication to a curriculum that balances academic excellence with vocational relevance. Students should double-check their subject codes on the cbse date sheet 2026 to avoid confusion during exam registration and attendance.

CBSE outlines evaluation and result timelines

CBSE has also laid out a detailed timeline for answer script evaluation and result declaration along with the exam dates announcement. Their detailed evaluation strategy will help process millions of answer sheets quickly and announce results for students who need to move ahead with their academic plans.

Evaluation to begin 10 days after each exam

CBSE has created an organized way to evaluate answer scripts for the 2026 board examinations. The evaluation process will start about 10 days after each subject’s examination and take 12 days to complete. This approach helps process answers quickly while getting a full picture of student performance.

Here’s a clear example: A Class 12 student taking the Physics exam on February 20, 2026, will have their answer script evaluation starting around March 3, 2026, and finishing by March 15, 2026. CBSE has designed this rolling system that handles subjects one after another instead of waiting for all exams to end.

This strategy shows CBSE’s aim to reduce result waiting time while getting a full picture of student performance. Subjects tested earlier will naturally have their evaluation done sooner, creating a quick yet organized timeline.

Results expected in April (Class 10) and May (Class 12)

Students should get their results within 40-60 days after their final examination, based on the evaluation timeline and past patterns. The board has managed to keep a consistent result declaration pattern:

CBSE Class 10 results for 2026 should come out by April 4, 2026, roughly 25 days after Phase 1 exams end on March 9. This quick timeline gives enough time before Phase 2 exams start on May 15, 2026.

Class 12 students can expect their results around May 20, 2026, keeping the usual 40-day processing time seen in previous years. This fits well with the April 9 end date for Class 12 exams.

Different sources suggest varying dates – some say all results will come by July 15, 2026, while others point to May 5, 2026 for Class 12 results. The most reliable pattern shows results typically come 50 to 60 days after exams end.

Students needing supplementary exams have separate timelines. Class 12 supplementary exams will start on July 15, 2026, and these results should come by August 15, 2026.

Students can access their results through DigiLocker accounts, which Class 10 students can use for Class 11 admissions. This digital system will give students their results quickly whatever their location.

This well-laid-out evaluation and result timeline helps students and schools know exactly when to expect outcomes. They can better plan their next steps, whether moving to higher classes or applying to universities.

How to download CBSE date sheet 2026 from official website

CBSE Class 10 and 12 students can now get their complete board exam schedule from the official CBSE website. The process to get the date sheet takes just a few simple steps.

Step-by-step guide to get PDF

The process to download CBSE’s date sheet 2026 is quite simple for students and parents:

1. First, open your web browser and visit the official CBSE website at cbse.gov.in
2. Once on the homepage, find either the “Latest @ CBSE” section or go to the “Examinations” tab
3. After locating the right section, look for the link titled “CBSE Class 10 and 12 Date Sheet 2026”
4. Upon finding the link, click on it to proceed
5. The date sheet will open as a PDF document in your browser

Students find this process easy since CBSE places important announcements right on their homepage. The date sheet has complete details about exam dates for all 204 subjects in both Class 10 and 12 boards.

The tentative time table is available on both cbse.gov.in and cbse.nic.in. These official websites are your only trusted sources for correct exam schedules.

Here’s what students should do after getting the PDF:

• Save the document on their device to check offline
• Print a copy to keep handy
• Check their subject codes in the date sheet
• Look at both exam phases (for Class 10)

CBSE’s official website displays the Board Exam 2026 Date Sheet PDF’s direct download link. Students should bookmark this page to check it quickly during their preparation.

The official date sheet will give you accurate exam schedule information, so it’s better than using other sources during your preparation time.

Conclusion

CBSE Board has moved to release its 2026 examination schedule much earlier than usual. This 146-day advance notice gives students, teachers, and institutions plenty of time to prepare. The detailed schedule for Class 10 and 12 examinations shows CBSE’s focus on well-planned assessment that reduces exam pressure.

The new dual-phase examination system for Class 10 brings a fresh approach that matches NEP 2020’s recommendations. Students now have two chances – they can improve their scores or take compartment exams. Class 12 will stick to its traditional single-phase format from February to April 2026.

CBSE’s wide range of 204 subjects across both classes shows its commitment to diverse academic interests. Students can choose specialized paths and still keep their core academic foundation strong.

The evaluation process will start 10 days after each examination. This clear timeline helps students plan better. Class 10 results will be out by April 2026, and Class 12 results will follow in May 2026. This timing gives students enough room to plan their higher education.

All 45 lakh candidates can easily get their exam schedules from CBSE’s official website. Students should download and print this schedule to refer to it during their preparation.

This early announcement shows CBSE’s modern approach to education management. The well-spaced exam dates, multiple assessment chances for Class 10, and broad subject choices create an exam system that puts students first. This careful planning will help reduce exam stress while keeping high assessment standards – a positive change for India’s educational community and beyond.

Key Takeaways

CBSE has revolutionized board exam planning by releasing the 2026 schedule 146 days early, providing unprecedented preparation time for students and schools.

• Early Release Benefits: CBSE announced exam dates 5 months in advance, allowing better study planning and reduced exam stress for 45 lakh students across 204 subjects.

• Dual-Phase Class 10 System: Class 10 introduces two exam phases – mandatory Phase 1 (Feb 17-Mar 9) and optional Phase 2 (May 15-Jun 1) for improvement and compartment students.

• Single-Phase Class 12 Format: Class 12 maintains traditional single examination cycle from February 17 to April 9, 2026, with all exams at 10:30 AM timing.

• Quick Result Timeline: Evaluation begins 10 days after each exam, with Class 10 results expected by April 2026 and Class 12 results by May 2026.

• Easy Access Process: Students can download the official date sheet PDF directly from cbse.gov.in and should print copies for regular reference during preparation.

This comprehensive scheduling represents CBSE’s alignment with NEP 2020 goals of reducing high-stakes exam pressure while maintaining academic rigor. The early announcement enables strategic preparation and better resource allocation across educational institutions nationwide.

FAQs

Q1. When are the CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams scheduled for 2026? The CBSE board exams for 2026 are set to begin on February 17, 2026. Class 10 exams will conclude by March 9, while Class 12 exams will continue until April 9, 2026.

Q2. Will there be two exam phases for CBSE Class 10 in 2026? Yes, CBSE has introduced a dual-phase examination system for Class 10 in 2026. The first phase is mandatory for all students from February 17 to March 9, while the second phase from May 15 to June 1 is optional for improvement and compartment exams.

Q3. How many subjects are included in the CBSE date sheet for 2026? The CBSE date sheet for 2026 includes over 200 subjects across both Class 10 and 12, covering a wide range of core academic, language, and vocational subjects to cater to diverse student interests.

Q4. When can students expect their CBSE board exam results in 2026? Based on the evaluation timeline, Class 10 results are expected by early April 2026, while Class 12 results are projected to be announced by mid-May 2026, approximately 40-60 days after the final exams.

Q5. How can students access the official CBSE date sheet for 2026? Students can download the official CBSE date sheet 2026 by visiting the CBSE website (cbse.gov.in), navigating to the “Examinations” tab or “Latest @ CBSE” section, and clicking on the link for the Class 10 and 12 Date Sheet 2026.

Q6. What resources are recommended for board exam preparation? For effective board exam preparation, students are advised to use cbse sample papers, previous year papers, and develop strong time management skills. These resources help familiarize students with exam patterns and improve their performance.

Q7. What certificates are issued after the CBSE board exams? After successfully completing the CBSE board exams, students receive a passing certificate. Additionally, high-performing students may be awarded a merit certificate in recognition of their outstanding academic achievement.

Q8. How can students effectively manage their board exam preparation? Effective board exam preparation involves creating a structured study plan, regularly practicing with sample and previous year papers, developing good time management skills, and staying updated with the latest CBSE guidelines and exam patterns.

Q9. Are there any changes to the 10th date sheet compared to previous years? Yes, the 10th date sheet for 2026 introduces a significant change with the dual-phase examination system. This new format provides students with more flexibility and opportunities to improve their performance.

Q10. How does CBSE determine the board date for exams? CBSE determines the board date for exams by considering various factors such as the academic calendar, national and regional holidays, and the time required for result processing. The early announcement of dates for 2026 is part of CBSE’s strategy to provide ample preparation time for students and schools.