The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the tentative date sheet for the 2026 board examinations. Both Class 10 and Class 12 board exams will begin on February 17, 2026. Class 10 exams conclude by March 18, while Class 12 exams will extend until April 4, allowing students sufficient time before major entrance tests.
All exams will run in a single shift starting promptly at 10:30 AM, providing a consistent schedule for students across the country.
CBSE Board Exam 2026: Subject-wise Date and Timing Table (Class 10)
| Date | Time | Subject Code | Subject Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Feb 2026 (Tue) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 041, 241 | Mathematics (Standard & Basic) |
| 18 Feb 2026 (Wed) | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 401 – 422 | Vocational Subjects* |
| 20 Feb 2026 (Fri) | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 407, 412, 416, 418 | Various Vocational Subjects |
| 21 Feb 2026 (Sat) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 101, 184 | English (Communicative, Language & Literature) |
| 23 Feb 2026 (Mon) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 018 | French |
| 24 Feb 2026 (Tue) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 003 – 011 | Regional Languages |
| 25 Feb 2026 (Wed) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 086 | Science |
| 26 Feb 2026 (Thu) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 064 | Home Science |
| 27 Feb 2026 (Fri) | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 165, 402, 417 | Computer Applications, IT, AI |
| 28 Feb 2026 (Sat) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 119, 122 | Sanskrit |
| 2 Mar 2026 (Mon) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 002, 085 | Hindi Course A & B |
| … | … | … | … |
*Note: Vocational subject codes cover a range of practical and career-oriented courses (Refer to official CBSE date sheet for full list)
How to Download the CBSE 2026 Date Sheet PDF
- Visit the official CBSE website: cbse.gov.in
- Navigate to the ‘Examinations’ or ‘Latest @ CBSE’ section.
- Click on “CBSE Class 10 and 12 Date Sheet 2026.”
- Download and save the PDF for detailed subject-wise dates and timings.
- Print a copy for easy offline reference during preparation.
Expert Tips to Maximize Board Exam Success
- Create a personalized timetable prioritizing subjects based on difficulty and exam sequence.
- Regularly practice past question papers to familiarize yourself with exam format and improve speed.
- Balance study with rest to maintain high energy and focus.
- Clarify doubts promptly with teachers or peers.
- Avoid last-minute cramming; use revision days strategically.
- Maintain a healthy diet and adequate sleep.
Conclusion
Early access to the official CBSE date sheet helps students plan smart and stay confident throughout their board exams. With the detailed schedule, ample preparation time, and effective study strategies, every student can optimize their performance and approach 2026’s exams with assurance.
This comprehensive and user-friendly guide, enhanced with a clear schedule table, offers essential info and actionable advice for CBSE board exam candidates and parents alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for CBSE Board Exam 2026
Q1: When will the CBSE Board Exams 2026 begin and end?
The board exams for both Class 10 and Class 12 will start on February 17, 2026. Class 10 exams conclude by March 18, while Class 12 exams extend till April 4, 2026.
Q2: Where can I download the official CBSE date sheet?
The official tentative date sheet is available on the CBSE website (cbse.gov.in) under the ‘Examinations’ or ‘Latest @ CBSE’ section. Download and save the PDF for your reference.
Q3: Are exams conducted in multiple shifts or a single shift?
All exams for both classes will be held in a single morning shift starting at 10:30 AM.
Q4: Will there be any date clashes for subjects?
No, the board ensures that no two subjects will be scheduled on the same day for any student.
Q5: What are the passing marks for CBSE Board Exams?
Students need to score at least 33% in each subject separately, including theory and practical (if applicable), to pass.
Q6: Is pre-board exam performance considered in the final result?
No, pre-board exam marks are not added to the final board examination results.
Q7: Can I use a gel pen or whitener during the exams?
Blue or royal blue ink gel pens are permitted. Whitener is not allowed on answer sheets.
Q8: What should I do if I complete my paper early and realize a mistake?
You may request to retrieve your answer sheet within the exam duration to correct mistakes, but it is advisable to use your time carefully to avoid such issues.
Q9: How to manage exam stress effectively?
Stay calm, practice sample papers within timed conditions, maintain a healthy routine, and take regular breaks during study sessions.
Q10: What if I fail in a subject? Can I reappear?
Yes, students who fail may reappear in the exam as private candidates or regular students when the next exam session is announced.
Q11: Can parents accompany students inside the exam center?
Parents are not allowed inside exam halls but can wait outside the center during exam hours.
Q12: Will asking questions in a language other than English or Hindi affect my marks?
Answering in the language specified by the question paper is important; opting for Hindi medium will not result in loss of marks.