Ahead of the 2025–26 academic session assessments, the Central Board of Secondary Education has shared fresh instructions with all affiliated schools. These directions focus on how Class 10 and Class 12 practical exams, project work, and internal assessments should be conducted so that the process remains timely and fair for students.
Schools have been told to follow the Board’s instructions carefully and avoid any delay or deviation.
Timeline Fixed for Practical and Internal Exams
CBSE has clearly set a time window for completing all practical-related activities. Schools must conduct practical exams, projects, and internal assessments between 1 January and 14 February 2026. All work related to these assessments must be finished within this period.
From 1 February 2026, principals are expected to keep a close watch on how practical exams are being conducted and ensure that marks are uploaded on the CBSE system every day.
Daily Upload of Marks Is Mandatory
CBSE has instructed schools that marks must be uploaded on the same day the practical or internal assessment is held. Once marks are submitted online, no changes will be allowed later.
Both internal and external examiners must ensure that marks are awarded only on the basis of student performance and within the maximum limits fixed by the Board.
Availability of Answer Books and Lab Preparation
Schools have been asked to check the availability of practical answer books well before exams begin. If there is any shortage, it must be reported immediately to the concerned CBSE Regional Office.
Laboratories should also be fully ready. Required equipment, materials, and infrastructure must be arranged in advance so that students do not face any problems during practical exams.
External Examiners for Class 12
For Class 12 practical examinations, CBSE has clearly stated that only Board-appointed external examiners are allowed to conduct the exams. If any unauthorised examiner is involved, the practical exam may be cancelled.
Schools have been advised to stay in regular touch with the assigned external examiners to avoid last-minute issues.
Instructions for Students, Parents, and Special Cases
Schools must inform students and parents about the practical and internal assessment schedule in advance. This will help avoid confusion and ensure full attendance.
Special arrangements should be made for Children with Special Needs (CWSN) so that they can appear comfortably for practical exams. At the same time, CBSE has clarified that no separate practical exams will be conducted for students participating in sports events, whether at national or international level.
Strict Warning on Non-Compliance
CBSE has warned that if schools do not follow the given instructions, the practical examination may be cancelled, which can seriously affect students. Schools needing any clarification should contact their respective CBSE Regional Offices without delay.
Revised Remuneration for Exam Staff
Along with these instructions, CBSE has also revised the payment rates for examiners and other staff involved in practical exams for the 2025–26 session. Details regarding staff deployment and updated remuneration have been shared separately through the official circular sent to schools.
Conclusion
The latest CBSE update makes it clear that strict discipline and timely action are required for Class 10 and 12 practical exams in 2026. Schools must complete all assessments within the fixed schedule, upload marks daily, and follow all Board instructions carefully. Students and parents should stay in touch with their schools to remain informed about practical exam dates and related guidelines.
