CBSE issues important advisory ahead of exams starting February 17
THE Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an important advisory to schools, parents, and students ahead of the board examinations for classes 10 and 12, scheduled to begin on February 17, 2026.
This year, over 46 lakh students will be appearing for exams across India and in 26 countries abroad. Examinations will begin at 10:30 AM, and students have been instructed to reach their respective examination centres by 10:00 AM.
The advisory states, "Keeping in view important national and international summits, high-level meetings, and other programmes scheduled during the examination period, traffic regulations may result in congestion, route diversions, and delays in different parts of the country."
It further adds, "All students are advised to leave home early to ensure they reach the examination centre on time, as per the instructions issued by CBSE."
The board has requested all students to plan their journey considering local conditions, traffic, weather, and distance, as entry to examination centres will be allowed only until 10:00 AM (IST).
All schools have been asked to guide and assist parents and students. Students are also advised to visit their examination centres in advance and plan their travel to ensure timely arrival on all examination days.
To strengthen the examination process, CBSE has introduced three key initiatives for 2026:
Second Board Examination for Class 10
On-Screen Marking for Class 12
Division of Science and Social Studies question papers for Class 10
The CBSE on Friday hosted a live webcast to explain the conduct of the Board Examinations 2026, highlighting guidelines and the newly introduced On-Screen Marking (OSM) system for Class 12 exams. The session was attended by principals, teachers, and stakeholders from across the country.
Dr Sanyam Bhardwaj, CBSE Controller of Examinations, spoke extensively about the conduct of Class 10 and 12 exams. He outlined the evaluation process, the benefits of digital assessment, the implementation of two board exams for Class 10, and the responsibilities of parents during examinations.
"This examination will test our knowledge, readiness, responsiveness, and decisions. Therefore, everyone must be fully aware of the rules, policies, and SOPs," said Dr Bhardwaj.
He emphasised CBSE's reform-driven approach, stating, "Smart exam, smarter evaluation, naye Bharat ki pahchaan," highlighting technology-backed processes, objective assessment practices, and streamlined coordination to ensure smooth examination management.
