The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a critical reminder to all affiliated schools. This notification emphasizes strict adherence to guidelines for Class 10 and 12 practical examinations, project work, and internal assessments. These assessments for the 2025-26 academic session commenced on January 1, 2026 . The board mandates full compliance with its rules to ensure transparency, uniformity, and timely completion of all evaluations.
Key Assessment Dates
Annual practical examinations, internal assessments, and project work for Class 10 and 12 students began on January 1, 2026 . Schools must ensure the completion of all these assessments by February 14, 2026 . This six-week assessment window is non-negotiable for all CBSE-affiliated institutions. No extension will be granted.
Guidelines for Schools
Schools must develop and follow a precise schedule for all examinations. They are responsible for ensuring sufficient answer books are available for students. All necessary infrastructural requirements must be in place. This includes making adequate arrangements for Candidates With Special Needs (CWSN).
All information regarding the assessments must be communicated to students and their parents promptly. Schools must contact officially appointed CBSE External Examiners well in advance. This proactive step helps ensure the smooth and timely conduct of all assessments.
Any shortage of essential resources must be reported immediately. Schools should contact their respective CBSE Regional Office without delay. Prompt communication helps address logistical challenges efficiently.
Scores for all practical examinations, project work, and internal assessments must be uploaded on the day of the exam. The Principal, Internal Examiner, and External Examiner must collectively verify these uploaded marks immediately. No alterations or corrections will be allowed once the results are officially declared.
External examiners are required to sign official undertakings to confirm their presence and participation. If an unofficial external examiner conducts the Class 12 practical exam, the entire assessment will be rendered invalid. Schools are accountable for verifying the authenticity of external examiners.
Important Rules for Students
Students must strictly adhere to the official examination schedule provided by their respective schools. There will be no exemption granted for students participating in sports activities. This rule applies even to athletes competing at national or international levels.
CBSE will not arrange any separate or special practical examinations for students who miss the scheduled dates. All practicals, projects, and internal assessments must be completed within the designated period of January 1 to February 14, 2026 . Students must plan accordingly.
Compliance and Consequences
The Central Board of Secondary Education emphasizes strict adherence to all outlined guidelines. Any discovered errors, deviations, or non-compliance with the established rules will result in severe disciplinary actions. These measures are designed to uphold the integrity, transparency, and uniformity of the entire board examination process for all students.
Official Notice Details
The official reminder notification is titled “Reminder-1: Conduct of Practical Examination/Project/Internal Assessment Classes X & XII – 2025-26”. This notice was officially released on January 1, 2026 . It provides comprehensive rules and regulations that all schools must follow for the 2025-26 academic session to ensure smooth conduct.