CBSE Issues Key Notice for Class 10, 12 Practical Exams 2026: Guidelines Schools Must Follow

The Central Board of Secondary Education has issued an important notice for all its affiliated schools regarding the conduct of Class 10 and Class 12 practical examinations, projects, and internal assessments for the academic session 2025–26. The board has reiterated that strict adherence to prescribed guidelines is mandatory and warned that any deviation may invite serious action, including cancellation of practical examinations.

According to the circular, CBSE has emphasised the need for transparency, fairness, and timely execution of practical assessments, which form a critical component of the final board results. Schools have been instructed to ensure that all logistical and administrative arrangements are in place well in advance to avoid last-minute disruptions.

One of the key instructions relates to the availability of practical answer books. Schools must ensure that sufficient answer books are arranged before the start of examinations. In case of shortages, schools are required to immediately inform the respective CBSE Regional Office to prevent delays or irregularities during assessments.

CBSE has also directed schools to provide advance intimation of practical exam schedules to students and parents. This includes clear communication on dates for practical exams, project evaluations, and internal assessments so that students can prepare accordingly and attendance issues are avoided.

Another major focus area is laboratory readiness. Schools have been instructed to ensure that all laboratories are fully equipped with the required instruments, materials, and infrastructure necessary for conducting experiments. Any inadequacy in lab facilities may be viewed as non-compliance with board norms.

For Class 12 practical examinations, the board has reiterated that only CBSE-appointed external examiners are authorised to conduct assessments. The use of unauthorised examiners will render the entire practical examination invalid. Schools have been advised to maintain close coordination with external examiners to ensure smooth conduct and timely completion.

Special provisions have also been outlined for Children With Special Needs (CWSN). Schools must make appropriate arrangements to ensure that CWSN students can participate comfortably in practical examinations, in line with CBSE’s inclusive education framework.

A critical instruction highlighted in the notice is the same-day uploading of marks. Schools must upload practical marks on the very day the assessment is conducted. Once uploaded, no corrections will be permitted under any circumstances. From February 1, 2026, principals are required to closely monitor the daily conduct of practical exams and the timely submission of marks.

CBSE has further clarified that no separate or special practical examinations will be conducted for students participating in national or international sports events. No exemptions will be granted, and all students must appear for practical exams as per the schedule fixed by the school.

The practical examinations for both Class 10 and Class 12 must be conducted strictly between January 1, 2026, and February 14, 2026. Any violation of timelines or procedures may result in disciplinary action against the school.

In addition, the board has announced a revision in remuneration for exam functionaries involved in the 2025–26 practical examinations. Details regarding the updated payment structure have been shared in the official circular.

CBSE has advised schools facing any operational issues or requiring clarification to immediately contact their respective Regional Offices. With practical marks carrying significant weight in the final results, the board has underlined zero tolerance for procedural lapses and urged schools, students, and parents to ensure full compliance.