CBSE Reminder on Class 10 and12 Practical Exams 2026: Key Instructions for Schools and Students

CBSE Issues Reminder On Class 10, 12 Practical Exams 2026, Shares Key Instructions

The CBSE has issued an important reminder to all its affiliated schools regarding the conduct of the Class 10 and Class 12 Practical Examinations, Projects, and Internal Assessments for the academic session 2025–26. This latest advisory stresses strict compliance with the board’s guidelines to ensure smooth and transparent execution of all practical evaluations.

With the board exams approaching and millions of students gearing up for these crucial assessments, CBSE’s instructions aim to streamline procedures, avoid last-minute confusion, and maintain fairness across schools.

Practical Exams Timeline and Key Dates

CBSE has reaffirmed that Practical Exams, Project Work, and Internal Assessments for Classes X and XII under the regular session must be conducted between 1st January and 14th February 2026.

Schools that fall under winter-bound regions (where the cold weather prevents smooth school functioning in January–February) had already conducted these assessments earlier, typically between 6th November and 6th December 2025.

CBSE’s reminder highlights that no extension of dates will be allowed, and all exams must be completed within this fixed window.

Key Instructions for Schools — What CBSE Emphasized

In its circular, CBSE laid out multiple directives to ensure practical exams are conducted professionally and without procedural lapses:

Advance Preparation and Communication

Schools must ensure adequate supply of practical answer books before the exams begin. Any shortage must be reported to the CBSE regional office immediately. Students and parents should also be informed well in advance about the practical schedule.

Well-Equipped Labs

Laboratories where practical work will be conducted must have all necessary tools, materials, and safety equipment. This ensures students can complete experiments and projects without unnecessary delays.

Coordination with Examiners

For Class 12, CBSE-appointed external examiners must be coordinated ahead of time to avoid scheduling conflicts. Only board-appointed examiners are authorized; any deviation can invalidate the assessment.

Special Arrangement for CWSN Students

Schools are instructed to make appropriate arrangements for Children with Special Needs (CWSN) so they can take their practical exams comfortably and fairly.

Mark Uploading Rules

Marks must be uploaded on the same day the practical assessment is conducted. Post-upload corrections will not be permitted. Accurate submission is crucial since incorrect data cannot be edited later.

Compliance is Mandatory

Any non-compliance with CBSE’s instructions could lead to cancellation of the practical exam for that school or batch. Schools must adhere strictly to the SOPs issued by the board.

Why CBSE’s Reminder Matters

Practical exams form a significant part of final board results—especially for science and vocational subjects where practicals carry up to 20% of total marks.

Ensuring standardized execution across thousands of affiliated schools helps maintain fairness, reduces malpractice risks, and ensures timely completion of evaluation before the written board exams begin. Without strict guidelines, variations in conduct and evaluation could compromise academic integrity and student performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When are the CBSE Class 10 and 12 practical exams scheduled for 2026?

The practical exams are scheduled from 1st January to 14th February 2026 for regular session schools. Winter-bound schools conduct their exams earlier.

Q2. Can schools extend the practical exam dates beyond the mentioned schedule?

No, CBSE has clearly stated that no extensions will be granted under any circumstances.

Q3. Is an external examiner required?

For Class 12, CBSE-appointed external examiners are mandatory. In Class 10, practicals are assessed by internal teachers, following CBSE guidelines.