The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced some important updates for students appearing in the 10th and 12th board exams in 2026. If you’re preparing for these exams, here’s a simple guide to help you understand the new schedule, exam pattern, and results process.
CBSE board exams for both Class 10 and 12 are expected to begin in the middle of February, just like in recent years. Class 10 exams will take place in two phases, while Class 12 exams will be held in a single stretch starting from February.
New Exam Format for 2026
From 2026, the exam pattern is changing for both classes. For Class 10, there will be two phases:
- The first phase is compulsory for all students and will be held in February.
- The second phase is optional, scheduled for May, and is meant for students who want to improve their scores.
Class 12 students will have their exams in one phase, starting in February.
How the Papers Will Look
The question papers will have two main sections:
- Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- Descriptive-type questions
Students can choose to attempt core subjects at either the Standard or Higher level, giving them a chance to showcase their strengths and plan their future studies.
Result Dates
For those appearing in the February exams, Class 10 and 12 results are expected in April. If you choose to take the optional May exam for improvement, your result will be out in June. Results will be available on DigiLocker, making it easy to access your marks for further admissions.
Who Can Take the Optional Exam?
The optional exam in May is open to students who want to improve their marks in up to three subjects from Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and languages. However, if you miss three or more subjects in the first exam, you’ll need to wait until the next year to reappear.
Compartment Exams
If you receive a compartment in the February exam, you can take the second exam in May under the Compartment Category. However, after passing, you cannot add extra subjects or take stand-alone subjects.
With these new changes, CBSE aims to give students more flexibility and support in their academic journey. Stay focused, plan your studies according to the new schedule, and make the most of the opportunities to improve your performance. Good luck with your preparations!
