CBSE released the exam schedule 86 days before exams begin—23 days earlier than 2024. The Class 10 exams run from February 15 to March 18, 2026, while Class 12 exams extend from February 15 to April 4, 2026. This early announcement gives students more time for structured preparation.

One of the biggest changes in the CBSE Board Exam 2025-26 pattern is the shift to 50% competency-based questions for both Class 10 and 12. Previously, Class 12 had only 40% competency-based questions. These questions assess your ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios rather than just memorizing facts.

These include case-based questions, source-based questions, and data interpretation problems that test critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

CBSE has significantly reduced the number of short and long-answer questions in the CBSE exam pattern 2026. This change shifts focus from rote learning to analytical thinking. Students must now focus on understanding concepts deeply rather than memorizing lengthy answers.

Internal assessment (IA) now carries 40% weightage in final marks (up from approximately 20%). The remaining 60% comes from the board exam itself. Internal assessment includes:

• Periodic tests
• Project work
• Assignments and presentations
• Classroom activities and participation

Students must maintain a minimum 75% attendance to be eligible for board exams 2026. Valid exemptions are allowed only for:

• Medical emergencies (with proper documentation)
• National/international level sports participation
• Recognized Olympiads

Schools strictly monitor attendance, making regular class participation essential.

While the CBSE Board Exam 2025 follows the traditional single-exam format, CBSE has announced that starting from 2026, Class 10 students will have the opportunity to appear for board exams twice a year:

• First attempt: February-March (mandatory)
• Second attempt: April-May (optional, for improvement)

The best performance will be considered for final results. This change aims to reduce exam pressure and give students a second chance. Class 12 will continue with annual exams.

All CBSE exam centers must install CCTV cameras in examination halls starting 2025. Schools not meeting this requirement won't be authorized as exam centers. Additional security measures include:

• Biometric authentication
• Digital fingerprinting
• Face matching technology

These measures ensure exam integrity and prevent malpractice.

All Class 9 and 11 students must link their APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) for 2025-26 registration. This digital credential will track academic progress and can be used for Class 11 admissions via DigiLocker.

CBSE is transitioning to digital evaluation of answer sheets for faster and more precise results. The board has also announced a transparent revaluation process. Special emphasis is now placed on:

• How answers are written (point-wise, paragraph-wise, or tabular format)
• Adherence to word limits
• Diagram quality and labeling

Students must practice writing concise, relevant answers within specified word limits.

Science (विज्ञान)

• Now divided into separate Physics, Chemistry, and Biology sections
• More case-based numericals and application questions
• Fewer direct theory questions
• Formula mastery and time management crucial

Social Science (सामाजिक विज्ञान)

• Divided section-wise: Geography, History, Political Science, Economics
• No topic repetition across sections
• Focus on map work and diagram-based questions

English (अंग्रेजी)

• Enhanced focus on comprehension and analytical writing
• Grammar integrated with reading passages
• Strict word limit enforcement

Mathematics (गणित)

• Students who opted for Basic Math in Class 10 can choose Standard Math in Class 11
• More application-based problems
• Step-wise marking emphasized