CBSE Board Exam Schedule 2026: Complete Timetable, Guidelines, and Preparation Tips
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced the CBSE Board Exam Schedule 2026 for both Class 10 and Class 12 students. This time, the board has introduced a new system that aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, offering students more flexibility and reducing stress during examinations.
Major Change in 2026: Two-Phase Exams for Class 10
From 2026, Class 10 students will appear in two phases of board exams:
- Phase 1 (February–March 2026): Mandatory for all students.
- Phase 2 (May 2026): Optional, designed for students who wish to improve their scores in up to three subjects.
This initiative ensures that students have a second chance in the same academic year without waiting another year for improvement exams.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Schedule 2026
Phase 1 (Mandatory): February 17 – March 6, 2026
- Mathematics – February 17
- Social Science – February 21
- Science – February 25
- Hindi – February 27
- English – March 2
- Other subjects will be held between February 19 – March 3
Results for Phase 1 are expected by April 20, 2026.
Phase 2 (Optional Improvement): May 5 – May 21, 2026
- Students may choose up to three subjects for improvement.
- Admit cards will be issued in late April 2026.
- Exams will run from May 5 – May 21, 2026.
- Results will be declared by June 30, 2026.
CBSE Class 12 Exam Schedule 2026
Unlike Class 10, Class 12 will follow a single-phase exam schedule in 2026.
- Exams will begin on February 17, 2026.
- The schedule will alternate between minor and major subjects until early March 2026.
- Results are expected by May 20, 2026.
CBSE Exam Schedule 2026 at a Glance
| Class | Phase | Exam Dates | Result Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 10 | Phase 1 (Mandatory) | Feb 17 – Mar 6, 2026 | April 20, 2026 |
| Class 10 | Phase 2 (Optional) | May 5 – May 21, 2026 | June 30, 2026 |
| Class 12 | Single Phase | Feb 17 – early Mar 2026 | May 20, 2026 |
Key Guidelines for CBSE Board Exams 2026
- Phase 1 is compulsory for all Class 10 students, while Phase 2 is optional.
- Internal assessments and practical exams will be conducted only once in the academic year.
- No major changes in exam pattern or marking scheme—students can rely on existing formats and sample papers.
- Results will be declared earlier than previous years to give students more time for admissions and future planning.
Preparation Tips for CBSE Exams 2026
- Start early: Use CBSE sample papers to practice regularly.
- Make a study plan: Allocate time for each subject and focus on weaker areas before Phase 1.
- Utilize Phase 2 wisely: If required, prepare for improvement exams with targeted study sessions.
- Focus on concept clarity: Since marking schemes remain unchanged, practicing NCERT-based questions is essential.
- Stay updated: Keep track of announcements, admit card releases, and final exam instructions.
Final Thoughts
The CBSE Board Exam 2026 timetable is designed to help students manage stress and perform to the best of their abilities. With two-phase exams for Class 10 and a structured schedule for Class 12, the new system empowers students with flexibility and a fair chance to improve scores.
Early preparation, consistent practice, and smart time management will be the keys to success in the CBSE Board Exams 2026.
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