CBSE Class 10, 12 Practical Exam 2026 Notice Released – Key Dates and Guidelines

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released an important notice for Class 10 and Class 12 students regarding Practical Examinations, Internal Assessments, and Project Work for the 2026 Board Examinations.

This notice is especially significant for students, parents, and school authorities as it outlines the official schedule, mark upload process, and conduct rules for all schools affiliated with CBSE. The directive ensures that every school completes internal and lab‑based evaluations within the defined time window to maintain nationwide uniformity and fairness.

CBSE Practical Exam 2026 Dates

CBSE Notice Highlights – Strict Guidelines for Schools

In its official circular dated January 1, 2026, CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to finish their practical examinations and internal assessments between 1 January and 14 February 2026.

The Board made it clear that no extensions or exemptions will be given under any circumstances, including sports or extracurricular participation. Failure to follow the schedule or evaluative norms could lead to disciplinary action, including possible cancellation or re‑conduct of practical exams.

CBSE’s emphasis this year is on transparency and procedural accuracy. Schools must ensure that external examiners, laboratory records, attendance registers, and student mark uploading are done as per the prescribed protocol.

Why Practical Exams Are Crucial

Practical examinations and internal assessments play an equally vital role as theory papers in the final board marks. For many subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Informatics Practices, Accountancy, and Fine Arts practical marks carry between 20 to 30 percent weightage.

These evaluations assess students’ practical knowledge, observation, analysis, presentation, and project‑based learning.
Therefore, schools and students must focus on both hands‑on performance and project submissions to secure high scores in the final result.

CBSE’s Instructions for Schools

CBSE has issued the following guidelines to ensure smooth and transparent conduct of practical exams:

1. Fixed Timeline: All practical exams must be held between January 1 and February 14, 2026.
2. External Examiners (Class 12): CBSE will appoint external examiners for supervising Class 12 practicals. Schools must not appoint internal staff.
3. Daily Mark Upload: Schools must upload marks and photographs on the CBSE portal on the same day of conduct. Late entries will not be accepted.
4. Evaluation Consistency: Marks must strictly reflect actual student performance; moderation or inflation of marks is prohibited.
5. Special Arrangements: Schools are directed to make necessary provisions for Children With Special Needs (CWSN), including scribes or extra time.
6. Record Maintenance: Every school must maintain attendance, record books, and evidence of examination conduct for future reference.
7. No Re‑scheduling: The board will not permit any changes or alternative dates once the examination window closes.

Guidelines for Students and Parents

The practical period is not just about marks; it is a crucial preparatory phase for the upcoming theory exams. Here’s what students and parents should keep in mind:

• Be punctual for each scheduled practical session late entries may not be permitted.
• Carry your admit card, lab records, and ID on all practical days.
• Revise concepts related to each experiment or subject.
• Follow instructions from external examiners carefully.
• Parents should support students’ schedules and ensure they are well‑prepared and stress‑free during this phase.

CBSE’s consistent monitoring ensures that all assessment activities across the country follow the same academic and ethical standards.

CBSE Practical Exam 2026

CBSE Practical Exams 2026 – Official Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Has CBSE officially announced the practical exam schedule for 2026?
Yes. The CBSE has confirmed that all Class 10 and Class 12 practical exams will be conducted between 1 January and 14 February 2026.

Q2. Who conducts CBSE Class 12 practicals?
External examiners appointed by CBSE conduct Class 12 practical exams with the assistance of internal teachers.

Q3. Are practical marks included in the final result?
Yes, practical and internal assessment marks hold significant weight and are added to the final board examination results.

Q4. How are Class 10 practicals assessed?
They are conducted internally by the school, supervised by subject teachers, and marks are uploaded to the CBSE portal daily.

Q5. Can students request a different practical date due to sports events?
No. CBSE has clearly stated that no exemptions or alternate dates will be granted.

Q6. Are special facilities allowed for CWSN students?
Yes, the board mandates schools to provide appropriate support such as scribes, extra time, and accessible venues.

Q7. What if a school fails to conduct exams on time?
Schools not following CBSE’s guidelines risk disciplinary actions, including re‑conduct or cancellation of exams.

Disclaimer

This information is based on the official notice issued by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Candidates, parents, and school authorities are advised to verify updates from the official website www.cbse.gov.in. The publisher is not responsible for any modifications, technical delays, or official changes made after publication.