The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has published the probable schedule of the Class 12 board examination 2026. The exams also include all streams: Science, Commerce, Humanities, and Vocational, and will start on 17 February 2026 and can probably end on 9 April 2026. In addition to the theory tests, practical and internal ones will also be used based on the standard pattern via schools.
This announcement gives a clear picture to students all over the country, and they are able to plan a specific strategy. By ensuring that dates are approved way ahead of time, the candidates will have the opportunity to prepare revision plans, sample papers, and also prepare to take one of the most crucial tests in their school life.
Key Highlights & Important Dates
- Exam Start Date: 17 February 2026
- Exam End Date (Provisional): 9 April 2026.
- Streams Taken: Science, Commerce, Humanities, Vocational.
- Exam Timings (Theory): 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
- The time to read is 15 minutes before the beginning of writing.
- Practical Assessment: School-based.
- Status of Date Sheet: Provisional, and it may change.
Overview of the Date Sheet
The Class 12 date sheet is tentative and incorporates exam dates of all streams subject-wise. Key core courses are Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics, Political Science, and English, which are located strategically. This schedule also includes electives and vocational courses.
The study period of 17 February 2026 to 9 April 2026 is sufficient to make sure students have plenty of time to revise between significant subjects. But the schedule is provisional and students need to stay in touch in case of any revision in the final announcement.
Exam Timings & Duration
- The vast majority of theory papers will take three hours each, and they will be carried out between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM.
- A 15-minute (10:15 AM to 10:30 AM) time will be allotted during which the students will have to read before they can proceed to the questions.
- Schools will organize practical exams or internal examinations that have to be done before or during the period of taking the written exam.
To prevent the last-minute inconveniences, it is necessary to arrive at the exam centre early enough.
Eligibility & Applicability
- Eligibility is open to all Class 12 students who attend schools that are affiliated with CBSE and are enrolled in the 2026 board exams.
- Applicable in Science, Commerce, Humanities, and Vocation streams.
- Applicants are required to undergo hands-on tests/projects according to the subject demands.
- Internal assessment will be aligned with CBSE guidelines in the schools.
How to Download the Date Sheet
To access the official date sheet PDF, the students can do it easily with the help of the following steps:
- Go to the central board of secondary education.
- Locate the notification which is named as Class 12 Tentative Date Sheet 2026.
- Click on the link to open the PDF file.
- Store the PDF on your computer to use on a regular basis.
- Save the copy to be used to remember the exam dates.
Check subject codes. You must cross-verify the subject codes to make sure your registered subjects have been registered correctly.
What the Date Sheet Includes
The date sheet PDF provides:
- Subject codes Subject names.
- Paper dates and days to be taken.
- Normal exam times (10:30 AM to 1:30 PM)
- Instructions and notes on reading time.
- All streams and vocational papers will be covered.
- Guidelines for exam conduct
The students should read all the details in order to prevent confusion on the exam day.
Exam Guidelines & Instructions
The students are obliged to remember the following instructions:
- The schedule is tentative, so until the last version is verified, it should be checked.
- Report to the exam centre at least 30 minutes before the exam with the admit card, ID proof, and stationery.
- Spend effectively the reading time to analyze questions and how to do it.
- Internal evaluation and presentation of projects need to be done promptly.
- It is important not to bring limited products such as cell phones, smartwatches, and electronic devices.
- Make sure that you fill your answer sheets with your roll number and other needed information.
- Follow the rules of the exam centres strictly and be disciplined.
Preparation Tips for Class 12 Students
- Draw a schedule: Prepare a schedule of revision that is in tandem with the examinations.
- Priorities: Set the priorities first on those whose exams are earlier.
- Solving past papers: Practice last year’s question papers and sample question papers.
- Write down brief notes: Flashcards or summary notes should be kept to make a quick reference.
- Clarity of concepts: There should be a focus on knowledge, not memorization of knowledge, especially with subjects such as Physics, Economics, and Mathematics.
- Mock tests: Do full-length tests to become better and faster.
- Breaks and study of balance: Have short breaks in order to stay focused and prevent burnout.
- Be on time: Keep a record of the school announcements concerning practicals and internal tests.
Important Link for
| Class 12 Date sheet | cbse.gov.in |
| Homepage | C |
Summary Table
| Particular | Details |
| Exam Start Date | 17 February 2026 |
| Tentative End Date | 9 April 2026 |
| Streams Covered | Science, Commerce, Humanities, Vocational |
| Theory Timings | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Reading Time | 15 minutes |
| Practical Component | Conducted by schools |
| Date Sheet Status | Tentative, subject to change |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. CBSE Class 12 exams 2026 have not yet been conducted.
Their start will be 17 February 2026, and their finish will be on 9 April 2026.
Q2. When should theory exams be taken?
The majority of the papers are planned between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM, with 15 minutes of reading.
Q3. Are all the streams covered by the date sheet?
Yes, it has Science, Commerce, Humanities, and Vocational courses.
Q4. Is this a schedule that includes practical exams?
No, schools organize practicals either before or during exams.
Q5. Is the date sheet final?
No, tentative and subject to change. Students will have to keep track of updates.
