New Delhi — The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Wednesday released the tentative schedule for the 2026 Class X and Class XII board examinations, marking a major change in the exam structure.
For the first time, Class X board exams will be held twice in the same academic year. The first phase is scheduled from February 17 to March 6, 2026, followed by the second phase from May 15 to June 1, 2026.
CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj said the decision was aimed at providing students with more flexibility and opportunities. The Class XII examinations, however, will follow the traditional single session format, running from February 17 to April 9, 2026.
The exams will be conducted across India and in overseas centres affiliated with CBSE. The final detailed timetable is expected to be issued closer to the exam dates.