CBSE Practical Exam Early Schedule: CBSE changed the schedule of Class 10 and 12 practical exam 2026 of winter-affected schools. Practicals will be held from 6 November to 6 December, written examinations from 17 February to 15 July.
CBSE Winter Practical Exam 2026: This time the cold of winter has created a new challenge for the students. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the new schedule of class 10th and 12th practical examinations for 2026. CBSE has decided to conduct practicals, projects and internal assessments for winter-affected schools from November 6 to December 6, 2025.
Winter-affected schools are those where schools remain closed in January due to heavy snowfall and cold. Therefore the board considered it necessary to conduct the examinations in November-December instead of January.
When will CBSE written examinations be held and how many students will appear?
The written board exams for both classes 10 and 12 will be held from February 17 to July 15, 2026. These examinations will be conducted from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. This year it is estimated that about 45 lakh students will appear in these examinations, which is three lakh more than last year.
What if a student does not appear for practicals or internal assessment?
CBSE has clarified that if a student does not participate in the internal assessment or practical examination of any class, he/she will be considered ineligible for the results of that year.
What’s new for class 10 and 12?
From 2026, classes 10 and 12 will be considered a complete programme. This means that to appear for the Class 10 board exams, students must complete both Class 9 and 10 exams, and to appear for the Class 12 board exams, students must complete both Class 11 and 12 exams.
Will class 10 students get a chance to take the exam twice?
Yes, CBSE has decided to conduct two board exams for class 10. Students who do not appear or fail in the first examination can appear in the second examination or compartment examination. Students who want to increase their marks can also appear in the second examination.
What are the dates of second exam and compartment exam?
- Class 10 second board exams: May 15 to May 30, 2026
- Examination of compartment subjects: June 1, 2026, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm
Is this change beneficial for students?
Absolutely. Students of schools affected by winter will now get help in planning for long holidays and exams. This will enable them to prepare for the exam on time and complete the internal assessment without any hindrance.