The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to conduct the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations for the academic session 2025–26 beginning February 17, 2026, as per the official date sheet released by the Board. With lakhs of students across India and abroad preparing for the crucial examinations, attention has now shifted to compliance with exam guidelines, timely collection of admit cards, and last-mile preparation strategies.
The board examinations will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode at designated examination centres. As in previous years, the exams are scheduled in a single shift on most days, generally beginning at 10:30 am. Students are advised to carefully review their subject-wise dates in the official date sheet and plan revision accordingly, especially for subjects scheduled with shorter gaps in between.
One of the most important developments ahead of the examinations has been the release of admit cards. CBSE has made the admit cards available through its official Pariksha Sangam portal for schools. Regular candidates are required to collect their admit cards directly from their respective schools, as only school authorities are authorised to download and distribute them after verification and stamping. Private candidates, including compartment and improvement category students, can download their admit cards from the official CBSE website using their login credentials.
Students are strongly advised to verify all details printed on the admit card immediately upon receipt. These details include the candidate’s name, roll number, date of birth, photograph, subjects, examination dates and centre address. In case of any discrepancy, students must report the issue to their school authorities without delay so that corrections can be made through official channels before the commencement of examinations. Entry to the examination hall will not be permitted without a valid admit card.
CBSE has reiterated several key examination guidelines that candidates must follow strictly. Students are required to reach their examination centres well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card to avoid last-minute inconvenience. Late entry after the stipulated time may not be allowed. Candidates must carry their admit card and valid school identity card to the examination centre.
Electronic gadgets including mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices and other communication tools are strictly prohibited inside the examination hall. Any candidate found in possession of such devices may face disciplinary action under the Board’s unfair means policy. Students are expected to follow the prescribed dress code, typically their school uniform for regular candidates, and comply with instructions given by invigilators.
In line with the ongoing implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, CBSE has continued its focus on competency-based questions in the board examinations. The Board has gradually increased the proportion of case-study based, application-oriented and analytical questions across subjects. This shift aims to test conceptual understanding rather than rote memorisation. Students are therefore encouraged to practise sample question papers released by CBSE to familiarise themselves with the revised question patterns and marking schemes.
As the examination season approaches, educators emphasise the importance of structured revision rather than attempting to learn new topics at the last minute. Students are advised to revise key concepts from the NCERT textbooks, which remain the primary source for board exam questions. Solving previous years’ question papers within the allotted time can help improve speed and answer presentation. Clear handwriting, proper structuring of long answers and adherence to word limits where specified can also positively influence evaluation.
Mental well-being is another critical aspect during board examinations. Teachers and counsellors recommend maintaining a balanced daily routine that includes sufficient sleep, short breaks during study hours and healthy meals. Excessive stress can hinder performance, and students are encouraged to seek guidance from parents and teachers if they feel overwhelmed.
The CBSE Board Exams remain a significant academic milestone for students, influencing future academic pathways in higher secondary education and undergraduate admissions. With the official schedule in place, admit cards released and guidelines reiterated, candidates are entering the final phase of preparation. Careful planning, adherence to instructions and consistent revision will be key as students across the country prepare to take their examinations starting February 17, 2026.
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Last Updated on: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 12:13 pm by News Proton Team | Published by: News Proton Team on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 12:13 pm | News Categories: Education, General