The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced the practical examination schedule for Classes 10 and 12 for the 2026 academic session, marking a crucial update for millions of students, parents, and educators across India.
The practical exams — a vital component of board assessments — are set to take place from January 1 to February 14, 2026, giving students a clear window to complete hands-on assessments, projects, and internal evaluations ahead of the theory papers.
CBSE’s directive requires all affiliated schools to conduct practical exams, project work, and internal assessments for both Class 10 and Class 12 students within the specified duration. Schools are instructed to ensure smooth conduct of these examinations and timely submission of marks on the same day they are assessed.
Practical Exam Period:January 1 – February 14, 2026 (main schedule)
Winter-bound schools: Some institutions located in colder regions were permitted to start practical exams as early as November 5 – December 6, 2025, to accommodate academic calendars affected by winter vacations.
This schedule applies uniformly to all subjects requiring practical evaluation, including science laboratories, skill subjects, physical education, fine arts, and vocational courses for both classes. Schools are expected to adhere to CBSE norms and ensure all practical components are completed within the prescribed timeframe.
Why This CBSE Practical Exam Schedule Matters?
Practical exams form a significant part of the overall assessment structure:
For Class 10 students, practicals and internal assessments contribute to the final result alongside theory marks, giving students an opportunity to showcase application-based skills.
For Class 12 students, especially those in Science and vocational streams, practical performance often carries considerable weight in final certification and future academic pursuits.
CBSE has emphasized that these exams are not optional and must be taken seriously, as failure to complete practical assessments could impact the student’s eligibility for board certification.
Guidelines for Conduct and Evaluation
Along with announcing dates, the board has issued detailed instructions and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure fair and efficient conduct:
Marks Upload: Schools must upload practical marks immediately after assessment. Once submitted, changes are not permitted.
Lab Preparedness: Institutions are required to stock sufficient answer books, lab equipment, and materials well before the exams begin to avoid delays.
Support for Special Needs: Arrangements must be made to facilitate students with disabilities or special needs so they can perform their practical tasks effectively.
Strict Compliance: CBSE warnings include strict adherence to assessment criteria. Misconduct or errors in evaluation could lead to disciplinary action for examiners.
These guidelines aim to maintain uniformity and uphold the integrity of the board examinations across the country.
Impact on Schools and Students
With practical exams scheduled well before theory examinations, schools are adjusting timetables to balance instructional time and preparation. The board’s schedule allows students to complete their practical components, including:
Laboratory work (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science)
Practical applications in vocational subjects
Project submissions and internal evaluation tasks
Teachers are also planning sessions to ensure students understand assessment rubrics and marking criteria ahead of exam dates so that students can perform confidently.
Context with Theory Exams
The practical schedule sets the stage for the upcoming theory examinations, which are slated to begin from mid-February 2026 for both Class 10 and Class 12 students, as per the board’s latest datesheet shared on the official CBSE portal. The theory exams typically span several weeks and cover all subjects studied throughout the academic year.
This chronological order — practicals first, followed by theory — helps students to:
Concentrate on hands-on work without theory exam pressure
Allocate time effectively for revision between practical and written exams
Reduce last-minute stress by completing different types of assessments in separate windows
Tips for Students & Parents
With practical exams approaching, here are some useful tips for effective preparation:
Revise Practical Procedures: Go through lab manuals, project briefs, and past practical questions to reinforce understanding.
Practice Time Management: Allocate time to revise both practical formats and theoretical concepts.
Clarify Doubts Early: Consult teachers ahead of exam days to ensure clarity on techniques, equipment handling, and viva questions.
Gather Materials: Prepare logbooks, project files, and necessary documentation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Parents are encouraged to provide supportive environments that balance study routines and well-being during this exam phase.
Final Word
The CBSE Practical Exam Date Sheet 2026 announcement brings clarity to a critical part of the academic calendar for Classes 10 and 12. By setting clear guidelines, dates, and expectations, the board aims to facilitate a smooth evaluation process for students across disciplines. With exams set to begin early in the new year, stakeholders are urged to stay updated through official CBSE channels and school communications.
For students, consistent preparation, adherence to guidelines, and timely participation will be key to performing successfully in these practical assessments.
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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