CBSE Board Exams 2025: What to Bring & What to Avoid

Updated: Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 8:22 [IST]

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released a comprehensive set of guidelines for students appearing in the 2025 board exams for classes 10th and 12th. With exams beginning on February 15, 2025, CBSE has tightened regulations to prevent cheating and ensure a smooth examination process.

CBSE Board Exam 2025 Schedule

Class 10 Exams: February 15 - March 18, 2025
Class 12 Exams: February 15 - April 4, 2025

Strict Rules to Curb Cheating: Two-Year Ban for Violators

To uphold the integrity of the examination, CBSE has banned all electronic devices inside the exam hall. Students caught with mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, or other gadgets will face a severe penalty-a two-year suspension from appearing in board exams.

Additionally, spreading rumors or engaging in any activity that disrupts the exam will also lead to a one-year ban, preventing students from taking both the current and next year's board exams.

To enforce these rules, students will be thoroughly frisked before entering the examination center. This measure ensures fairness and discipline throughout the exam process.

Permitted Items Inside the Exam Hall

To avoid unnecessary confusion, CBSE has listed the only items that students can bring to the examination center:

Mandatory Documents:

CBSE Admit Card
School ID card or Government-issued Photo ID

Stationery & Essentials:

Pens (Blue/Royal Blue ink only)
Geometry/pencil box
Scale, eraser, writing pad
Transparent water bottle
Analogue watch (No smartwatches allowed)

Transportation Items:

Metro card/bus pass
Money for transport

List of Prohibited Items

The following items are strictly banned inside the examination hall:

Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, microphones, earphones
Textbooks, notes, or any printed/written materials
Calculators, log tables, electronic pens/scanners
Handbags, wallets, goggles, pouches
Open or packed food (except for diabetic students with prior permission)

CBSE warns students that carrying any prohibited items may lead to disqualification and further penalties.

Guidelines for Students

With exams approaching, students must understand these guidelines carefully to avoid unnecessary risks. Following CBSE's strict rules will ensure a fair and smooth examination process, helping students to focus entirely on their performance.

By staying informed, arriving prepared, and following the guidelines, students can confidently appear for their exams without any last-minute complications. Best of luck to all CBSE board exam candidates in 2025.