The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the final date sheet for Class 10 Board Examinations 2026. For the 2026 academic session, CBSE continues with the two-phase examination structure. Phase 1 is the main board examination that all students must appear for, while Phase 2 is an optional window mainly meant for improvement or compartment exams.
The board has also issued a final revision to the timetable, shifting a few subject dates to avoid overlaps and administrative conflicts. Students are strongly advised to rely only on the final CBSE-issued date sheet while preparing their study plan.
CBSE 10th Class Date Sheet 2026 – Overview
| Exam Name | CBSE Class 10 Board Examination 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen-and-Paper) |
| Academic Session | 2025–26 |
| Phase 1 Exam Dates | 17 February 2026 to 11 March 2026 |
| Phase 2 Exam Window | Mid-May to Early June 2026 |
| Purpose of Phase 1 | Main board examination for all Class 10 students |
| Purpose of Phase 2 | Improvement, compartment, or repeat exams |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours for most theory papers |
| Practical Exams | Conducted separately by schools |
CBSE 10th Exam Dates 2026 Key Highlights
- Exam mode: Offline (pen-and-paper based)
- Phase 1 (Main Exams): 17 February 2026 to 11 March 2026
- Phase 2 (Optional / Improvement / Compartment): Mid-May to early June 2026
- Exam duration: 3 hours for most theory papers
- Practical exams and internal assessments are conducted separately by schools under CBSE guidelines
CBSE Class 10 Date Sheet 2026 – Phase 1
| Exam Date (2026) | Subject / Paper | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 17 February 2026 (Tuesday) | Phase 1 exams begin (selected elective and vocational subjects) | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
| 7 March 2026 (Saturday) | Yoga, Electronics, and select skill subjects | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
| 9 March 2026 (Monday) | Mathematics / Applied Mathematics | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
| 10 March 2026 (Tuesday) | Select vocational and language papers | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
| 11 March 2026 (Wednesday) | Final Phase 1 examination | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
CBSE Class 10 Phase 2 Exam Window 2026
Phase 2 exams are conducted mainly for:
- Students seeking improvement in marks
- Candidates appearing for compartment exams
- Special cases approved by CBSE
| Phase | Tentative Dates | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 2 | 15 May – 1 June 2026 | Improvement / Compartment / Repeat exams |
Availability of subjects, exam centers, and eligibility criteria for Phase 2 are decided as per CBSE rules and school recommendations.
How to Check CBSE Class 10 Date Sheet 2026?
CBSE released a revised date sheet in late December 2025. As part of this update, at least one paper originally scheduled for early March was shifted to 11 March 2026, making it the final exam day of Phase 1.
Students who had downloaded earlier versions of the timetable should discard old copies and ensure they are preparing according to the revised final schedule.
Step 1: Visit the Official CBSE Website – Begin by opening a web browser on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer and visiting the official website of the Central Board of Secondary Education. CBSE publishes all authentic notifications, circulars, and examination-related documents only through its official platforms. Students should avoid relying on unofficial websites or social media posts, as these may contain outdated or incorrect information.
Step 2: Locate the Date Sheet Notification – Once you reach the homepage, look for sections such as “Latest Announcements,” “Academic,” or “Examination.” These sections usually highlight newly released notices. Search carefully for a notification titled “CBSE Class 10 Date Sheet 2026” or “Revised Date Sheet for Board Examinations 2026.” Reading the notification heading helps ensure you are opening the correct and most recent document.
Step 3: Open the PDF File – Click on the date sheet link to open the PDF file. The PDF includes the complete subject-wise examination schedule, mentioning exam dates, days, subject names, subject codes, and exam timings. Scroll through the document to check all subjects relevant to your combination.
Step 4: Download and Save the Date Sheet – Use the download or save option to store the PDF on your device. It is recommended to keep a digital copy on your phone and computer and also take a printed copy for easy reference during exam preparation.
Step 5: Check for Revisions – Always verify whether the document mentions “Revised” or carries a recent release date. If a revised date sheet is issued, it replaces all earlier versions.
Step 6: Confirm With School Authorities – Finally, confirm the schedule with your school exam coordinator or class teacher. Schools may issue internal notices to ensure students follow the final CBSE-approved timetable without confusion.
Important Instructions for CBSE Class 10 Students
- Reach the examination center at least 45 minutes before the reporting time to avoid last-minute stress.
- Carry the CBSE admit card and a valid school ID on every exam day.
- Do not bring electronic devices, including mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or Bluetooth gadgets, into the exam hall.
- Carefully read and follow all instructions printed on the question paper and admit card, including writing time and answer-sheet guidelines.
- Create a subject-wise revision timetable aligned with the official exam dates.
- Practice previous years’ question papers and CBSE sample papers to understand exam patterns and marking schemes.
- Keep at least one buffer day between major subjects for focused revision and mental rest.
- Regularly check school notices and announcements for last-minute updates or changes related to examinations.
FAQs
When will CBSE Class 10 Phase 1 exams be held in 2026?
Phase 1 exams are scheduled from 17 February to 11 March 2026.
Is Phase 2 compulsory for all Class 10 students?
No, Phase 2 is optional and mainly for improvement or compartment purposes.
Will CBSE conduct Class 10 exams online in 2026?
No, the exams will be conducted in offline pen-and-paper mode.
Can the date sheet change after release?
Yes, CBSE may issue a revised date sheet, which becomes final and binding.
Where can students get the official Class 10 date sheet?
The date sheet is released officially by CBSE through its notifications and PDFs.
