The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the board exam schedule for Class 10 for the academic year 2025-26, giving students and parents several months of preparation time. According to the official timetable, the theory examinations for Class 10 are set to begin on 17 February 2026, with the final papers scheduled by early March.
What’s the full timetable?
Here’s a breakdown of the key subject dates announced so far for Class 10:
| Subject | Date |
|---|---|
| Mathematics (Std/Basic) | 17 February 2026 |
| English (Language & Literature) | 21 February 2026 |
| Science | 25 February 2026 |
| AI / IT | 27 February 2026 |
| Hindi (Course A/B) | 2 March 2026 |
| Social Science (SST) | 7 March 2026 |
Students should note that the full subject-wise schedule (including elective and minor subjects) is available in the official timetable released by CBSE. Confirm your specific subject codes and paper numbers via your school or admit card.
Major Highlights & Clarifications
- The exams will predominantly be conducted in the morning shift, beginning around 10:30 AM for most papers.
- This year’s schedule is released early compared to past years, allowing students and schools extra time to plan study routines and revision.
- The timetable applies to schools affiliated with CBSE, including those located across India and abroad. Students must confirm their specific subject-codes and paper numbers via the admit card.
- Practical exams, internal assessments and project work will be held earlier (primarily January/February 2026) in many schools.
What this means for students
Preparing for board exams can feel overwhelming, but having the schedule this early gives a clear advantage. Here are a few suggestions:
- Start mapping your revision: With Maths as the first paper, allocate earlier revision slots for topics that demand more practice.
- Mock tests & self-checks: Since Science follows within a week of English, regular mock practice prior to exam season will build stamina.
- Spacing matters: The gap between subjects is reasonable, but avoid complacency. Consistent work beats last-minute cramming.
- Stay updated: Ensure you check the final admit card, confirm exam centre, subject code and timing.
- Health & routine: Maintaining sleep, nutrition and breaks is as important as revision. The board exam period is a marathon, not a sprint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When do the Class 10 board exams for CBSE begin?
They are scheduled from 17 February 2026.
2. Which subjects are first and last?
Mathematics is scheduled on 17 February; Social Science is scheduled on 7 March.
3. What are the timing hours for exams?
Most exams are slated from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, but students should verify exact timings on their admit cards.
4. Where can I download the full timetable PDF?
The full timetable is available from official CBSE channels and distributed to schools. Students should ask their school for the official PDF or check the school's noticeboard/portal.
5. Are the dates final or tentative?
The board has released the schedule; however, students should check for any official updates from CBSE or their school before exam day.
6. When will practical exams be held?
Practical/internal assessments typically begin in January 2026 in many schools. Exact dates and schedules are set by individual schools within CBSE guidelines.
7. Can the schedule vary across schools?
The board provides the schedule and dates; while schools manage logistics, the exam dates remain the same for all CBSE-affiliated schools.
8. What happens if I miss an exam on the scheduled date?
Missing the official date generally leads to losing the opportunity to appear for that subject’s paper unless the board provides a special allowance or re-exam under exceptional circumstances. Students must attend as per timetable and inform their school immediately if emergency situations occur.
9. When are results likely to be declared?
Historically, CBSE Class 10 results are declared around May; the exact date will be notified by the board after evaluation.
10. How should I use the timetable for my preparation plan?
Use it to sequence your revision (core → elective), schedule mock tests before each exam, finalise topics for early papers first, and dedicate regular review time for weaker subjects.
11. Is there anything students should carry to the exam centre?
Carry your admit card, school ID, stationery (pens, pencils, eraser), a simple transparent water bottle, and any authorised documents specified by your school. Electronic devices are strictly prohibited in exam halls.
12. Will there be any COVID-19 related instructions?
As of the timetable release, follow any health advisories issued by CBSE or local authorities. Schools will communicate specific protocols if required.
Conclusion
With the CBSE Class 10 board exam timetable for 2026 now available, the path ahead is clearer. Starting with Mathematics on 17 February 2026 and concluding with Social Science on 7 March 2026, this schedule offers a stable foundation for strategic preparation. As students embark on this final stretch of the academic year, remember that planning + consistent effort + rest form the winning formula. Use the advance notice, map out your revision, lean on teachers and peers when needed, and head into the exams with confidence and calm. Best wishes to all Class 10 students — your hard work begins now!
Report by Toofan Express