CBSE Exam 2026: New Guidelines Issued for Class 10th and 12th Practical Exams; Know the New Rules

The CBSE has clarified that practical examinations will be conducted from January 1, 2026, to January 14, 2026.  The board has issued several important instructions to schools regarding this.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a detailed notice regarding practical examinations, projects, and internal assessments for classes 10 and 12 for the academic session 2025-26. This notice applies to all schools affiliated with the board. The board has stated that this is an extension of previously issued instructions to ensure complete transparency and systematic conduct of examinations and evaluations.

The CBSE has clarified that practical examinations will be conducted from January 1, 2026, to January 14, 2026.  The board has given several important instructions to schools to ensure that students do not face any inconvenience or technical problems and that all examinations are completed smoothly.

What Schools Should Do Before the Practical Exams

The board has instructed schools to ensure all arrangements are made in advance. Schools must ensure the availability of a sufficient number of practical answer sheets before the examination. If there is any problem with any material or equipment, the concerned regional office should be informed immediately. Students and their parents should be clearly informed about the practical examination schedule and all instructions issued by the CBSE.

Infrastructure and Laboratories

The CBSE has also stated that schools must ensure that laboratories are equipped with all necessary equipment, materials, and basic facilities. Students should have sufficient space and facilities to conduct experiments. External examiners appointed by the board for conducting the examinations should be contacted in a timely manner. Only CBSE-appointed external examiners are authorised to conduct the practical examinations. Any examination conducted by an unauthorised examiner will be considered invalid. Arrangements for Children with Special Needs

The CBSE has directed that easy and convenient arrangements be made for Children with Special Needs (CWSN) so that they can fully participate in practical examinations, projects, and internal assessments. Students will appear for practical examinations according to the schedule set by the school. Marks must be uploaded on the same day as the assessment. Once uploaded, the marks cannot be changed later. The CBSE has cautioned schools to exercise utmost care while uploading marks. If incorrect marks are uploaded, the results cannot be rectified later.

Rules Regarding Awarding Marks

Marks will be awarded strictly according to the CBSE marking scheme. Marks should be based on the student's performance; no arbitrary marks will be given. The Principal and the examiner will ensure that no inflated marks are awarded. For the 2026 examinations, practical answer scripts will include an undertaking stating that the awarded marks have been verified and that all rules have been followed. The CBSE has clarified that students participating in national or international sports events will not be given any exemption from practicals, projects, or internal assessments. No separate examinations will be conducted for them.

Practical examinations will be conducted from January 1st to January 14th, 2026. Schools must regularly inform the Vice Principal or coordinators about the examination status. In case of any doubts or problems, the concerned regional office should be contacted.

Last Reminder from CBSE

The CBSE has warned that if any school fails to comply with the board's instructions, it reserves the right to cancel the practical examinations conducted at that school. The board has urged schools to maintain academic integrity and ensure a fair, transparent, and smooth examination process for all students.