CBSE Class 10 and 12 Board Exams Kick Off Today: Complete Schedule, Rules, Permitted Items, and Prohibitions

CBSE Class 10 and 12 Board Exams Kick Off Today: Complete Schedule, Rules, Permitted Items, and Prohibitions

Overview

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has commenced the board exams for Classes 10 and 12 today, with millions of students participating both in India and internationally. To ensure a smooth process, CBSE has outlined strict protocols for candidates. Entry to exam centers is barred after 10:00 AM, and items like mobile phones, calculators, or any electronic gadgets are strictly forbidden. Students are required to wear their school uniforms and bring their admit cards without fail.

The examination center gates will shut promptly at 10:00 AM, as per CBSE directives.

Starting today, February 17, 2026, the CBSE board exams for secondary and senior secondary levels are underway. A large number of examinees are taking part this year. CBSE emphasizes that no late arrivals will be permitted into the venues after 10:00 AM for the morning sessions, which commence at 10:30 AM.

CBSE 2026 Board Exam Schedule

Below is the subject-wise timetable for CBSE Class 10 and 12 exams in 2026, as officially released.

Key Dates and Timings for CBSE 2026 Exams

• Start Date: February 17, 2026
• Exam Timing: 10:30 AM (all in a single shift)
• Class 10 Duration: February 17 to March 18, 2026
• Class 12 Duration: February 17 to April 4, 2026

CBSE Class 10 Timetable 2026

CBSE Class 12 Timetable 2026

CBSE Class 10 & 12 Exam Rules: Strict No-Entry After 10:00 AM

• CBSE has mandated that all exam center gates will close at 10:00 AM sharp. Latecomers will be denied entry without exceptions.
• Students with disabilities (PwD) will get extra time as stipulated by CBSE regulations.
• It is advisable for candidates to arrive by 9:30 AM to handle verification, seating, and other procedures comfortably.
• Educational institutions have been directed to notify parents and students about this rigid timeline.
• A physical copy of the admit card is essential for hall entry.
• Uniforms and school ID cards are mandatory; non-compliance will result in denial of entry.
• Candidates should bring their personal stationery items and may carry a clear water bottle if required.

Related: Missing the First Paper in CBSE Class 10 Exams 2026 Could Lead to ‘Essential Repeat’ Status – Understand the Implications

CBSE Rules: Ban on Mobiles, Calculators, and Electronics

• Prohibited items include cell phones, wearable tech like smartwatches, calculators, or any devices capable of communication. Possession of these will disqualify students from the exam.
• A 15-minute reading period is provided before writing starts. Responses must be in blue or black ink only.

During this reading slot, students can:

• Thoroughly review all parts of the question paper.
• Note the available internal choices.
• Strategize the sequence of attempting questions.

However, no writing is permitted during this time. It’s designed to familiarize students with the exam format and content.

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CBSE cautions against falling for social media hoaxes regarding leaked papers or unauthorized materials. Rely solely on official CBSE communications.

CBSE Board Exams Bell Schedule

• A prolonged bell at 10:30 AM marks the exam’s beginning.
• Another long bell signals the conclusion.
• Brief bells denote time milestones throughout.
• A 15-minute warning bell alerts students before the end.

Candidates should heed these cues to allocate time effectively across sections.

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Key Writing Guidelines for OMR Sheets

Although the overall format is unchanged, CBSE urges adherence to these rules:

• Attach map sheets (for subjects like History or Geography) at the answer book’s end.
• Organize answers by question and section.
• Avoid writing beyond allocated spaces, as it could impact scanning and grading.