The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has instructed all affiliated schools to release teachers for the evaluation of CBSE Board Exams 2026 answer scripts. This directive aims to streamline the assessment process for the upcoming board examinations.
Teacher Release for Evaluation
Schools must ensure teachers are fully available for the entire duration of the evaluation period for their respective subjects. The Chief Nodal Supervisor (CNS) is responsible for formally relieving teachers and issuing certificates upon completion of their duties. This process is mandatory for all evaluators.
Principals are tasked with verifying the qualifications of teachers assigned for evaluation. These teachers must meet CBSE’s defined standards. The number of teachers released should align with the student enrollment in board examinations.
Evaluation Process Updates
The CBSE is implementing updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and instructional videos for evaluators. This ensures consistency and accuracy in marking. Additionally, the board has reduced the number of answer books assigned per evaluator. This change allows for evaluation to be completed within 8 to 10 days, a reduction from the previous 10 to 12 days.
Capacity-building programs are also being provided to evaluators. This initiative supports the updated evaluation methodologies.
Digital and Offline Marking Methods
For the 2026 examinations, the CBSE will introduce on-screen marking (OSM) for Class 12 answer scripts. Class 12 papers will be evaluated digitally. In contrast, Class 10 answer scripts will continue to be checked using the traditional physical mode.
Exam Schedule
The CBSE Class 12 board exams are scheduled from February 17 to April 10, 2026 . The Class 10 exams will commence on February 17, 2026 , and conclude on March 11, 2026 .
In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, CBSE will conduct Class 10 board exams twice annually starting from 2026. The second session for Class 10 exams will begin on May 15, 2026 .
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the CBSE’s directive regarding teacher release will result in strict action. Schools may face the non-declaration of their results. Any deviation from the board’s instructions will be considered an attempt to disrupt the evaluation process.
The board reserves the right to take severe action under its examination and affiliation bye-laws for non-compliance.