The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the practical examination schedule for Classes 10 and 12 for the 2026 board exams, allowing students and schools to prepare well ahead of the theory papers.
According to CBSE, practical exams are being conducted in two phases, depending on the school category.
CBSE Practical Exam Schedule 2026
-
Winter-bound schools:
Practical exams were held from November 6 to December 6, 2026. -
All other CBSE-affiliated schools:
Practical exams will be conducted from January 1, 2026, to February 14, 2026.
These practicals will take place before the main theory examinations, which are expected to be held in February–March 2026.
Who Will Appear in Practical Exams?
The practical exams apply to:
-
Class 10 and Class 12 students
-
Subjects including Science, Mathematics (where applicable), and other practical-based subjects
How CBSE Practical Exams Will Be Conducted
-
Exams will be offline and school-based
-
Schools will conduct multiple sessions per day if required
-
Students will be divided into small batches for smooth evaluation
-
Assessment will include:
-
Practical work
-
Viva voce
-
Project files
-
Practical records
-
For most subjects, practical exams carry up to 20 marks, which contribute to the final board result.
Important Advice for Students
CBSE has advised students to:
-
Stay in touch with their schools for subject-wise practical dates
-
Complete practical files and projects on time
-
Check the official CBSE website (cbse.gov.in) for updates or instructions
The early announcement of the practical exam schedule is aimed at avoiding last-minute pressure and ensuring a smooth examination process for students and schools alike.
