SSLC preparatory examinations for Class 10 students in Karnataka will begin on January 5, 2026, as part of the state government’s academic intervention programme ‘Mission 45’. The preparatory exams are being conducted by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) to strengthen student performance ahead of the main SSLC examination scheduled in March.
SSLC Preparatory Exam Schedule 2026
The state-level SSLC preparatory examinations will be conducted in three phases to assess learning outcomes and identify academic gaps before the final board exam.
The main SSLC examination 2026 is scheduled to be held from March 18 to April 2.
Focus on Dakshina Kannada and Udupi Districts
Students from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, which have consistently recorded top SSLC results over the last two years, will take part in the preparatory examinations.
- Over 25,000 fresh students from Dakshina Kannada
- Over 13,000 fresh students from Udupi
In SSLC 2025, Dakshina Kannada secured the first rank, followed by Udupi and Uttara Kannada. In SSLC 2024, Udupi topped the state rankings, with Dakshina Kannada and Shivamogga placed second and third respectively.
Mission 45: Objective and Academic Support Measures
The ‘Mission 45’ programme, launched by the Karnataka Education Department, aims to ensure that no Class 10 student is left behind academically. The initiative focuses on continuous assessment, quick evaluation, and targeted academic intervention. Answer scripts from all preparatory exams will be evaluated immediately. Marks will be uploaded to the Students’ Achievements Tracking System, enabling schools and teachers to analyse performance trends and provide focused support to slow learners before the final examination.
Question Banks and Model Papers Released by KSEAB
To support student preparation, KSEAB has uploaded comprehensive learning resources on its official website. These include:
- Subject-wise question banks for all six SSLC subjects
- Model question papers
- Answer keys for self-assessment
These materials are accessible in the students’ section of the KSEAB portal.
Special Academic Support for Slow Learners
Dakshina Kannada Deputy Director of Public Instruction G. Shashidhar stated that a document containing most-likely questions was circulated to teachers handling identified slow learners. Students were encouraged to practise these questions to strengthen weak areas before the board examination.
2nd PU Preparatory Exams Also Underway
Meanwhile, the first preparatory examination for 2nd PU students began on January 2, 2026, and will continue till January 17. Participation in both preparatory exams is mandatory for Government PU Colleges. Aided and unaided institutions have been advised to conduct the first exam compulsorily and organise the second exam only if required. Following complaints from students and parents, the education department directed certain unaided colleges in Dakshina Kannada to conduct the exam on January 2 afternoon after skipping the morning session.
Significance for Karnataka Board Students
The structured approach under Mission 45 is expected to improve academic preparedness, reduce failure rates, and enhance overall SSLC performance across Karnataka. With multiple preparatory assessments and data-driven monitoring, the programme aims to provide early academic correction well before the final examination.
