The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clarified that calculators are not allowed inside the examination hall for the Class 12 Board Exams 2026, which commenced on February 17. As per official guidelines, students carrying calculators or any electronic gadgets will face strict action under the board’s “Unfair Means” rules.
Calculator Rule for CBSE 12th Exams 2026
- General candidates: Not allowed to carry calculators.
- Students with Learning Disability (Dyscalculia): Permitted to use calculators, which will be provided by the examination centre if required.
CBSE has strictly barred the use of electronic devices during the examination.
Items Permitted Inside Exam Centre
Students are allowed to carry:
- Admit Card & School ID (regular students)
- Admit Card & Govt-issued Photo ID (private candidates)
- Transparent pouch with stationery (blue/royal blue pen, pencil, scale, eraser, writing pad)
- Geometry box
- Analogue watch
- Transparent water bottle
- Metro card or bus pass
Items Not Allowed Inside Exam Centre
- Calculator (except for approved dyscalculia cases)
- Log tables (to be provided by centres if needed)
- Mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, cameras, pagers
- Pen drives, scanners, electronic pens
- Wallets, handbags, goggles, pouches
- Any textual material or written notes
- Packed or open food items (except for diabetic students)
- Any object that may be used for unfair means
CBSE has warned that possession of banned items will attract disciplinary action. With over 45 lakh students appearing for the 2026 board exams, candidates are advised to carefully follow the dress code and item guidelines to avoid disqualification or penalties.