CBSE 10th Board Exams 2026 Begins from Feb 17; Check Date Sheet & Exam Day Instructions

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced that the CBSE Class 10 Board Exams 2026 will commence from February 17, 2026. With lakhs of students appearing from across India and overseas CBSE-affiliated schools, preparations are now in full swing.

The board has released the detailed CBSE 10th Date Sheet 2026, along with important exam day instructions that students must follow strictly. Candidates are advised to review the schedule carefully and ensure they are well-prepared before the examinations begin.

CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026: Key Highlights

Here are the important details related to the CBSE 10th Board Exams 2026:

• Exam Name: CBSE Secondary School Examination (Class 10) 2026

• Conducting Authority: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)

• Exam Start Date: February 17, 2026

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen-and-Paper Mode)

• Exam Duration: 3 Hours (for most subjects)

• Exam Timing: Generally from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM

• Reading Time: 15 minutes before the exam begins

Students must note that exact exam dates for each subject are mentioned in the official date sheet. Practical exams are usually conducted earlier by respective schools as per CBSE guidelines.

CBSE 10th Date Sheet 2026: Subject-Wise Schedule

How to Download CBSE 10th Date Sheet 2026

Students can download the official date sheet by following these steps:

1. Visit the official CBSE website.

2. Click on the link that says “CBSE Class 10 Date Sheet 2026.”

3. The PDF document will open on the screen.

4. Download and save the file.

5. Take a printout for quick reference during exam preparation.

Schools will also display the date sheet on their notice boards for students’ convenience.

CBSE Class 10 Admit Card 2026

The CBSE Class 10 Admit Card 2026 will be issued by schools before the commencement of exams. Regular students must collect their admit cards from their respective schools, while private candidates can download them from the official website.

The admit card will contain important details such as:

• Student’s name and roll number

• Exam centre details

• Subject codes and exam dates

• Important instructions

Students must verify all details carefully and report any discrepancy immediately to their school authorities.

CBSE 10th Exam Day Instructions 2026

CBSE has laid down strict exam guidelines to ensure smooth and fair conduct of the board exams.

1. Reporting Time

Students should reach the examination centre well in advance. Entry is generally allowed by 10:00 AM, and candidates must be seated before the reading time begins.

2. Reading Time

A 15-minute reading time will be provided before writing begins. Students should use this time to carefully read the question paper and plan their answers.

3. Mandatory Documents

• Admit Card

• School ID Card

Without these documents, entry to the exam hall may be denied.

4. Dress Code

Students must wear their prescribed school uniform. Any violation may lead to complications at the examination centre.

5. Items Allowed Inside the Exam Hall

• Blue/Black ballpoint pens

• Pencils, eraser, sharpener

• Geometry box (without calculator)

• Transparent pouch

6. Prohibited Items

• Mobile phones

• Smartwatches

• Bluetooth devices

• Calculators (unless specifically permitted)

• Written notes or chits

Strict action will be taken against students found using unfair means during the examination.

Preparation Tips for CBSE 10th Board Exams 2026

With the exam beginning on February 17, students should now focus on final revision. Here are some effective preparation strategies:

• Revise NCERT textbooks thoroughly

• Practice previous years’ question papers

• Attempt sample papers within the time limit

• Focus on weak areas

• Avoid starting new topics at the last minute

• Maintain a proper sleep schedule

Time management during the exam is crucial. Students should divide their time wisely between sections and leave a few minutes at the end for revision.

Final Advice for Students

The CBSE Class 10 Board Exam is a significant academic milestone. Students are encouraged to remain calm, confident, and disciplined during this period. Proper planning, consistent revision, and strict adherence to CBSE guidelines will help candidates perform well.

Students and parents are advised to stay updated through official CBSE notifications and school communications for any further announcements regarding the examination.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

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