The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has begun the Class 12 annual board examinations 2026 from February 17, with lakhs of students appearing across exam centres nationwide. The exams will conclude on April 10, 2026.
CBSE Class 12 Exams on February 19, 2026
As per the official schedule, CBSE is conducting the following Class 12 examinations today:
- Engineering Graphics
- Bharatanatyam
- Kuchipudi
- Odissi
- Horticulture
- Cost Accounting
All exams are being held in a single shift from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, with an additional 15 minutes provided for reading the question paper.
CBSE Board Exam Timing 2026
- Reporting Time: Before 10:00 AM
- Question Paper Reading Time: 10:15 AM – 10:30 AM
- Exam Duration: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
The board has confirmed that no afternoon shift will be conducted for Class 12 exams this year.
CBSE Class 12 Exam Analysis 2026 (So Far)
CBSE has successfully concluded exams held on February 17 and 18. Subject-wise difficulty levels are as follows:
Students can expect competency-based questions to form nearly 50% of the paper, as per CBSE’s revised assessment framework.
What’s New for CBSE Class 12 Students in 2026?
CBSE has introduced several major academic reforms this year:
- On-Screen Marking (OSM) system for evaluation of Class 12 answer sheets
- Higher weightage to competency-based questions
- Introduction of new skill-based elective subjects
These changes aim to reduce rote learning and promote analytical thinking.
CBSE Class 12 Exam Day Guidelines 2026
Students appearing for upcoming papers must strictly follow CBSE instructions:
- Carry CBSE Class 12 Admit Card 2026 and school ID
- Reach the exam centre at least 30 minutes early
- Electronic devices are strictly prohibited
- Wear the prescribed school uniform
- Any use of unfair means will lead to strict disciplinary action
CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026: Key Details
- Exam Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper)
- Total Students Appearing: ~46 lakh
- Class 12 Candidates: Over 18 lakh
- Exam Duration: February 17 – April 10, 2026