CBSE Board Exams 2026: Date Sheet, Phases & Key Highlights

What’s New in 2026

For the 2026 board examinations, CBSE has introduced a few significant updates aimed at providing much-needed flexibility to students. Notably:

• The Class 10 board exams are being planned in two phases (main and improvement/second chance) in line with the National Education Policy 2020’s emphasis on flexibility.
• The date sheets for both Classes 10 and 12 have been released well in advance, giving students more time to plan their revision and exams.

Important Dates & Timetable Snapshot

Class 10

• Phase 1 (main exams) is scheduled from 17 February 2026 and will run up to early March (around 9 March) for most students.
• Phase 2 (improvement/second chance) is tentatively scheduled between mid-May and early June 2026 (for students who opted for improvement or missed exams).
• Exam times: typically 10:30 am to 1:30 pm (subject to subject-specific variations).

Class 12

• The Class 12 board exams will begin from around 17 February 2026 and are expected to continue through to early April 2026 (for the main session).
• The schedule covers all streams — Science, Commerce and Humanities — with subjects arranged into “minor” and “major” categories for planning purposes.
• The second session or improvement option for Class 12 may extend into later dates (some reporting indicates up to July in special cases).

Why Are These Changes Important?

• The early release of date sheets allows better time-management and revision planning for students.
• The two-phase structure for Class 10 reduces pressure: students who miss a subject or under-perform have another opportunity within the same academic year.
• Schools and teachers get clarity on schedules well ahead of time, enabling structured preparatory programmes.

What Students Should Do Now

1. Download and print the date sheet for your class and stream; highlight your subject dates and note the days of rest in between.
2. Map your revision schedule using the time until your first exam — breaking it down subject-wise to ensure balanced coverage.
3. Check exam timings on your admit card when released — most exams begin at 10:30 am, but durations or timings for practicals and languages may differ.
4. Plan for Phase 2 (Class 10) or improvement module if needed; understand eligibility and registration deadlines so you’re not caught off-guard.
5. Take care of health and routine in the lead-up: proper sleep, hydration, and balanced meals are key to good performance — especially with a long exam window ahead.
6. Stay updated: Even though dates are announced, keep an eye on official notices for your region or subject in case of any adjustments.

Things to Remember

• For most students the main exam window begins mid-February 2026, so preparation should start early rather than waiting for the date sheet alone.
• The optional Phase 2 (especially for Class 10) is not a repeat for failure only — it is framed as a second chance, so treat Phase 1 with full seriousness.
• Ensure all logistics — admit card, subject list, correct centre address — are verified well before your exam day to avoid last-minute stress.
• Each paper typically lasts 3 hours, unless otherwise specified (some skill-based or language subjects may differ).
• Careful reading of instructions in the date sheet and on the admit card is vital: note day, date, shift timing and major/minor subject-group mentions.

Final Word

With the rigour of board examinations remaining the same, the CBSE’s advance release of the date sheet and the phased structure provide a positive shift for student planning and academic stress reduction. For students of Classes 10 and 12, the key is starting early, revising smart and taking each exam seriously. The timeline for 2026 gives a clear roadmap — now the focus turns to disciplined preparation, healthy routines and confident performance.

Wishing all students the very best for CBSE Board Exams 2026 — may your hard work translate into excellent results!