CBSE Board Exams 2026 Begin from February 17 with Over 43 Lakh Students

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has commenced the CBSE Board Examinations 2026 from today for Class 10 and Class 12 students across the country. Lakhs of students are appearing for the exams at various centres in India and abroad.

Students are advised to carefully follow the official exam-day instructions and checklist to ensure a smooth and stress-free examination experience.

CBSE Board Exams 2026 From February 17; Over 43 Lakh Students Appear

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has commenced the CBSE Board Exams 2026 from February 17, 2026 across the country. This year, more than 43 lakh students are appearing for the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations.

As per official data:

• Class 10: 25,08,319 students
• Subjects (Class 10): 83
• Exam Centres (Class 10): 8,075
• Class 12: 18,59,551 students
• Subjects (Class 12): 120
• Exam Centres (Class 12): 7,574

The examinations will be conducted in a single shift from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

Students must carefully follow the exam-day instructions and checklist to ensure smooth participation.

CBSE Board Exam 2026 - Key Highlights

CBSE has put extensive arrangements in place to conduct the exams fairly and smoothly across thousands of centres.

Important Instructions for Students

1. Reach the Exam Centre Early

• Reporting time is usually earlier than 10:30 AM.
• Students must reach at least 30-45 minutes before the exam begins.
• Entry may be restricted after the gate closing time.

2. Carry Mandatory Documents

• Printed CBSE Admit Card
• School ID Card
• No candidate will be allowed inside without a valid admit card.

3. Carefully Fill Answer Sheet Details

• Write roll number correctly.
• Mention subject code properly.
• Sign in required spaces.
• Errors in personal details may cause complications later.

4. Follow Exam Hall Discipline

• Maintain silence.
• Follow invigilator instructions strictly.
• Avoid any unfair practices.
• CBSE has a zero-tolerance policy towards cheating.

CBSE Dress Code & Prohibited Items

While regular school students are advised to wear their school uniform, private candidates should wear simple and decent clothing.

Allowed Items:

• Transparent stationery pouch
• Blue/black ballpoint pens
• Admit card
• Transparent water bottle

Prohibited Items:

• Mobile phones
• Smartwatches
• Bluetooth devices
• Calculators (unless permitted for specific subjects)
• Notes or written material

Carrying banned items may result in cancellation of the exam.

Exam Pattern & Timing

Exam Duration: 3 hours

Reading Time: First 15 minutes to read the question paper

Exam Time: 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Students should use the reading time wisely to plan their answers.

Important Checklist Before Leaving Home

Admit card packed
School ID card
Required stationery (extra pens)
Transparent water bottle
Reach centre early
Stay calm and confident
Avoid carrying electronic gadgets

Time Management Tips During Exam

• Attempt high-mark questions strategically.
• Divide time according to marks distribution.
• Avoid spending too much time on one question.
• Reserve last 10-15 minutes for revision.

Proper planning ensures better performance.

Health & Stress Management Tips

• Sleep well before the exam.
• Eat light and healthy food.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid last-minute panic revision.
• Practice deep breathing to stay calm.

A positive mindset helps improve concentration.

After the Examination

After completion of exams:

• CBSE will start evaluation of answer sheets.
• Results are expected to be announced in the coming months.
• Students can check results online using roll number and school number.

Conclusion

The CBSE Board Exams 2026, beginning from February 17, are a major academic milestone for over 43 lakh students nationwide. With exams conducted in a single shift from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, students must strictly follow instructions, carry necessary documents, and maintain discipline.