CBSE issues schedule for Class 10 and 12 practical exams in winter-bound schools for 2025–26 session

The Central Board of Secondary Education ( CBSE) has released an official circular outlining the schedule for Practical Examinations, Project Assessments, and Internal Assessments for Classes 10 and 12 in winter-bound schools for the academic year 2025–26.

According to the circular, while practical examinations for all CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad are generally set to begin on January 1, 2026, winter-bound schools will follow a different schedule due to seasonal closures during that period.

Practical exams to begin from November 6

CBSE has announced that Practical Examinations, Project Assessments, and Internal Assessments for Classes 10 and 12 in winter-bound schools will be conducted from November 6, 2025, to December 6, 2025. The Board has also issued detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines to ensure a smooth and timely conduct of the exams.

Key instructions for schools

CBSE has directed schools to adhere to the following guidelines under the revised schedule:

• Final list of candidates: Schools must prepare the final list of candidates and ensure that no student not included in the online List of Candidates is allowed to appear in any practical, project, or internal assessment.
  
  
• Internal Assessment for Class 10: The assessment will be conducted only once, and schools must upload the marks for all students within the prescribed timeline.
  
  
• Appointment of external examiners: Schools must contact their respective CBSE Regional Offices to appoint external examiners and observers for practical exams.
  
  
• Timely completion and dispatch: Schools must complete and dispatch all practical examination answer books and related materials to the concerned Regional Offices without delay.
  

Not applicable to regular session schools

CBSE has clarified that this schedule and its related instructions apply only to winter-bound schools. A separate circular detailing the schedule for schools following the regular academic session will be released later.

Schools and students have been advised to refer to the official CBSE circular for complete details and compliance instructions.

(With inputs from TOI)