Practical exam dates announced; CBSE board exams might begin earlier this time..

The CBSE has not yet announced the dates for the 2027 board examinations, though the final date sheet could be released at any time. In the meantime, the schedule for practical examinations and internal assessments has been announced. Since the practical examinations are being concluded earlier this year, it is anticipated that the board examinations might also begin sooner. Currently, lakhs of students are awaiting their schedules; a primary concern for them is ensuring sufficient gaps between major subjects, which would allow adequate time for preparation and revision.

When are the practical examinations?
This year, the CBSE is scheduling the completion of all practical examinations within December. According to the schedule released by the Board, practical examinations for schools in hilly and cold regions will be held from November 9 to December 19, 2026. For all other schools, practical examinations and internal assessments will commence on January 1, 2027. Specific dates for regular schools will be announced alongside the main date sheet.

Examinations may begin earlier
Although the CBSE has not released the date sheet by the first week of November, the examinations could conclude earlier than in the previous year. Given factors such as preparations for the UP Assembly elections, it is expected that the board examinations will be completed within the month of March. Last year, the CBSE board examinations began on February 17; this year, they could potentially start in the first week of February or shortly thereafter.

Two board examinations and OSM
Last year, the CBSE introduced a policy for conducting two board examinations. Under this, a second board examination was held for Class 10 students—specifically for those who had failed or wished to improve their marks. This policy will remain in effect this year as well. Additionally, an 'On-Screen Marking' (OSM) system was implemented for evaluating Class 12 answer scripts; this initiative became the subject of significant controversy, as several irregularities were identified within the process. It remains to be seen whether this will apply this year as well.

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