CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 Live: Date Sheet, Timing & Analysis

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has commenced the Class 12 Annual Board Examinations 2026 from February 17, 2026, which will continue until April 10, 2026. The exams are being conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode in a single shift across India and abroad. On February 18, 2026, CBSE is conducting examinations for Engineering Graphics, Bharatanatyam, Horticulture, and Cost Accounting from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. More than 18 lakh Class 12 students, out of approximately 46 lakh total CBSE candidates (Class 10 & 12), are appearing for the senior secondary board examinations this year.

CBSE 12th Exam Timing 2026

• Exam Shift: Single shift
• Timing: 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
• Reading Time: 15 minutes extra before writing begins

Students must report well before the commencement of the examination to complete verification formalities.

What’s New for CBSE Class 12 Students in 2026?

CBSE has introduced major academic and evaluation reforms for the 2026 session:

1. On-Screen Marking (OSM): Class 12 answer sheets will now be evaluated digitally to improve accuracy and transparency.
2. 50% Competency-Based Questions: Half of the question paper will focus on application and analytical skills.
3. New Skill-Based Electives: Additional practical-oriented courses have been introduced in the curriculum.

These changes aim to strengthen conceptual clarity and real-world problem-solving abilities among students.

CBSE Class 12 Board Exam Analysis 2026 (Feb 17)

The board successfully concluded the February 17 exams. Subject-wise difficulty levels reported:

Detailed analysis for February 18 subjects will be updated after the examination concludes.

CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2026 (Key Subjects)

Some major upcoming examinations include:

• Feb 19: Physics
• Feb 20: Automotive, Fashion Studies
• Feb 23: Accountancy
• Feb 26: Chemistry
• Mar 7: Mathematics / Applied Mathematics
• Mar 12: English Core / English Elective
• Mar 18: Economics
• Mar 23: Political Science
• Mar 27: Biology
• Mar 30: History
• Apr 4: Sociology
• Apr 10: Final scheduled paper

The board has released the complete CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2026 in PDF format on its official website.

Exam Day Guidelines for CBSE 12th Students

Students appearing for the CBSE Class 12 board exams 2026 must follow these rules:

• Carry CBSE Class 12 admit card 2026 and valid school ID.
• Reach the exam centre at least 30 minutes before reporting time.
• Do not carry mobile phones, smartwatches or electronic devices.
• Wear proper school uniform.
• Strict action will be taken in cases of unfair means or malpractice.

Candidates are advised to read the question paper carefully during the allotted reading time and attempt answers as per instructions.