Hold on to your textbooks, students! The CBSE has just dropped a bombshell that will change how you approach Class 10 board exams forever. In a historic move, the education board announced not one, but two examination opportunities for students starting February 2026.
What’s Changing in CBSE Exams?
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially confirmed that Class 10 students will now get two chances to take their board exams every year. This major shift comes straight from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommendations.
Here’s what this means for you:
- First attempt in February-March 2026 (regular schedule)
- Second “improvement” attempt later in the year
- Best score between both attempts will count
Exam Dates Revealed Early
In another surprise, CBSE released the 2026 date sheet much earlier than usual – 110 days before exams begin. Mark your calendars: Class 10 board exams start on February 17, 2026 and continue until March 10.
You can download the complete schedule from the official CBSE website. No login required!
Class 10 Exam Schedule Highlights
Here are the key dates every Class 10 student should circle in red:
| Date | Major Subjects |
|---|---|
| February 17 | Mathematics (Basic & Standard) |
| February 21 | English |
| February 25 | Science |
| March 2 | Hindi |
| March 7 | Social Science |
Special Subject Exams
CBSE has scheduled these important practical-focused exams:
- February 20: Beauty & Wellness, Data Science
- February 27: Computer Applications, AI, IT
- March 6: Painting
Why This Early Release Matters
CBSE’s early date sheet release isn’t just about being organized. It gives students and schools four key advantages:
- More study time between subjects
- Better vacation planning for families
- Schools can prepare exam centers properly
- Teachers can adjust lesson plans
“This is the first time CBSE has released the final date sheet nearly 110 days before the exam,” stated the official notice. The board credited schools for submitting student lists on time.
New Exam Pattern Alert!
The 2026 exams won’t just have new dates – they’ll have new types of questions too. CBSE is shifting focus from memorization to real understanding:
| Old Pattern | New Pattern |
|---|---|
| Rote learning questions | Critical thinking problems |
| Theory-heavy | Practical applications |
| Textbook dependent | Real-world scenarios |
What This Means for Students
Education experts suggest students should:
- Focus on understanding concepts deeply
- Practice competency-based questions
- Develop problem-solving skills
- Reduce dependency on coaching centers
How to Download Your Date Sheet
Getting your personal exam schedule is simple:
- Visit cbse.gov.in
- Look for “Date Sheet 2026” notification
- Download the PDF for Class 10
- Check your subject codes carefully
Pro Tip: Save the PDF on your phone and make printed copies!
JEE Main Applicants Note
If you’re applying for engineering entrance exams, CBSE has special instructions. You’ll need your Class 11 registration number for JEE Main forms. Contact your school if you don’t have this number yet.
What Schools Are Saying
Education institutions across India are welcoming the changes:
“This early schedule helps us plan revision cycles better. The two-exam system reduces student stress dramatically.” – Delhi School Principal
Many teachers are already adjusting their lesson plans to match the new exam patterns and dates.
Your Next Steps
With exams starting February 17, 2026, here’s your action plan:
- Download the date sheet immediately
- Create subject-wise study plan
- Identify your “improvement” subjects
- Practice competency-based questions
- Talk to teachers about new exam patterns
Remember – you now have two chances to shine. Use this opportunity wisely!
