The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the practical exam schedule for Class 10 and 12 students in winter-bound schools. These key assessments, including practical exams, project work, and internal assessments, will take place from November 6 to December 6, 2025 . This early schedule ensures students in specific regions complete their evaluations before their schools close for winter.
CBSE Practical Exam Schedule for Winter-Bound Schools
CBSE confirmed that practical examinations, internal assessments, and project evaluations for the 2025-26 academic session will commence from January 1, 2026, for most schools. However, schools located in winter-bound areas face unique logistical challenges. These institutions typically experience closures during the peak winter months, which coincide with the general practical exam period.
To accommodate this, CBSE has preponed the practical assessment window for these specific schools. This allows students to complete their evaluations well in advance, avoiding disruption due to severe weather or school holidays. The designated period for these schools is a month-long window, beginning November 6, 2025 , and concluding on December 6, 2025 .
Understanding Practical Exams and Internal Assessments
Practical exams are integral components of the CBSE Class 10 and 12 curriculum, particularly for science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Computer Science. These assessments evaluate students’ hands-on skills, experimental abilities, and understanding of practical concepts. Each practical exam typically carries a specific weightage in the final board results.
Internal assessments encompass a broader range of evaluations, including subject-specific projects, viva voce, assignments, and periodic tests conducted throughout the academic year. Project evaluations require students to research, develop, and present a project, demonstrating their critical thinking and application of theoretical knowledge. Both internal assessments and project work contribute to a student’s overall score, reinforcing continuous learning and evaluation.
Key Dates at a Glance
Students and schools should note the distinction in practical exam timelines:
| Assessment Type | Affected Schools | Scheduled Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Practical Exams/Project/Internal Assessments | Winter-Bound Schools (Class 10 & 12) | November 6 – December 6, 2025 |
| Practical Exams/Project/Internal Assessments | All Other Schools (Class 10 & 12) | From January 1, 2026 onwards |
Why Separate Dates for Winter-Bound Schools?
The decision to hold practical exams earlier for winter-bound schools is a direct response to geographical and climatic conditions. Regions with harsh winters often experience school closures and limited accessibility during December and January. By scheduling these exams in November, CBSE ensures fairness and equal opportunity for all students, preventing academic disruption.
This approach allows schools in these areas to manage their academic calendar effectively, ensuring all mandatory assessments are completed before the onset of severe winter conditions. It also provides students with sufficient time to focus on their theoretical board examinations, which typically take place in February and March.
Accessing the Official Datesheet and Preparation
The complete and detailed datesheet, specifying subject-wise schedules and guidelines, is available on the official CBSE website, cbse.gov.in . Students and teachers must regularly check the portal for updates and specific instructions related to their subjects. It is crucial for schools to download and display the datesheet prominently for student awareness.
Students appearing for these practicals and internal assessments should begin preparations immediately. This includes thoroughly reviewing the practical syllabi for their respective subjects, understanding experiment procedures, and completing any assigned project work or assignments. Familiarity with marking schemes and the expectations for viva voce sessions will also be beneficial. Teachers play a vital role in guiding students through the assessment process, ensuring readiness for both the practical examinations and the internal evaluations. Timely completion of all components is essential for successful board exam performance and contributes significantly to the final grade.