CBSE Board Exams 2026 Advisory: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an important advisory to schools, parents, and students ahead of the board examinations for classes 10 and 12, scheduled to begin on February 17, 2026. This year, over 46 lakh students will be appearing for exams across India and in 26 countries abroad. Examinations will begin at 10:30 AM, and students have been instructed to reach their respective examination centres by 10:00 AM.
The advisory states, "Keeping in view important national and international summits, high-level meetings, and other programmes scheduled during the examination period, traffic regulations may result in congestion, route diversions, and delays in different parts of the country."
It further adds, "All students are advised to leave home early to ensure they reach the examination centre on time, as per the instructions issued by CBSE."
Also Read | CBSE Introduces On-Screen Marking For Class 12 Board Exams Starting 2026
The board has requested all students to plan their journey considering local conditions, traffic, weather, and distance, as entry to examination centres will be allowed only until 10:00 AM (IST).
All schools have been asked to guide and assist parents and students. Students are also advised to visit their examination centres in advance and plan their travel to ensure timely arrival on all examination days.
To strengthen the examination process, CBSE has introduced three key initiatives for 2026:
- Second Board Examination for Class 10
- On-Screen Marking for Class 12
- Division of Science and Social Studies question papers for Class 10
Also Read | CBSE Board Exams 2026: Controller Explains Marking Process, Shares Key Details
The CBSE on Friday hosted a live webcast to explain the conduct of the Board Examinations 2026, highlighting guidelines and the newly introduced On-Screen Marking (OSM) system for Class 12 exams. The session was attended by principals, teachers, and stakeholders from across the country.
Also Read | CBSE Asks Schools To Upload Practical, Internal Assessment Marks By Feb 14
Dr Sanyam Bhardwaj, CBSE Controller of Examinations, spoke extensively about the conduct of Class 10 and 12 exams. He outlined the evaluation process, benefits of digital assessment, the implementation of two board exams for Class 10, and the responsibilities of parents during examinations.
Also Read | Explained: What Major Changes Has CBSE Introduced For Class 10 Exams 2026
"This examination will test our knowledge, readiness, responsiveness, and decisions. Therefore, everyone must be fully aware of the rules, policies, and SOPs," said Dr Bhardwaj.
He emphasised CBSE's reform-driven approach, stating, "Smart exam, smarter evaluation, naye Bharat ki pahchaan," highlighting technology-backed processes, objective assessment practices, and streamlined coordination to ensure smooth examination management.
