CBSE 2026 Practical Exam Dates Announced for Winter-Bound Schools from November 6

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the 2026 practical exam schedule for winter-bound schools, confirming that Class 10 and 12 practicals, projects, and internal assessments will be held from November 6 to December 6, 2025.

The early timeline ensures that schools located in regions prone to extended winter breaks can complete all practical and internal evaluation processes before closing for the season.

According to the official CBSE circular issued on October 16, the revised schedule applies only to winter-bound schools, while other affiliated schools across India and abroad will conduct their practical exams as usual from January 1, 2026.

“As per the provisions of the Examination Bye-Laws and Scheme of Studies, practical exams for the 2025–26 academic session are scheduled from January 1, 2026. However, since winter-bound schools remain closed during that period, their exams will be conducted earlier, between November 6 and December 6, 2025,” CBSE stated.

The Board has also instructed schools to ensure that only registered students listed in the online List of Candidates (LOC) are allowed to appear for practical examinations. For Class 10, internal assessments will be conducted once, and marks must be uploaded within the prescribed deadline.

Additionally, CBSE has directed schools to coordinate with regional offices for the appointment of external examiners and observers to ensure transparency and smooth administration.

India to Introduce AI in School Curriculum from Class 3 by 2026–27

In a transformative step toward digital education, the Ministry of Education is set to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the national school curriculum from Class 3 onwards, starting in the 2026–27 academic year.

School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar revealed that CBSE is developing a comprehensive framework for AI integration across all grade levels. He emphasized the challenge of training over one crore teachers nationwide to deliver AI-based education effectively.

“The coming years will be crucial in aligning students and educators with emerging technologies. Our goal is to prepare learners to not only use technology but to innovate with it,” said Kumar.

This initiative represents a landmark shift in India’s educational landscape, ensuring students become active contributors to the AI-driven future.