The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the official guidelines for the 2026 Class 10 and Class 12 board exams. With millions of students appearing across thousands of centres, the board focuses on discipline and punctuality this year.
- Gate Closing Time: 10:00 AM sharp.
- Question Paper Distribution: 10:15 AM.
- Reading Time: 15 minutes.
- Exam Start Time: 10:30 AM.
- Buffer Time: Candidates should arrive by 9:30 AM.
The CBSE Controller of Examinations, Sanyam Bhardwaj, confirmed that centres will shut their gates at 10:00 AM. No student can enter after this deadline. The board will not accept any reasons for delays, including traffic or transport issues. Therefore, students must plan their travel carefully to reach the venue early.
Students receive their question papers at 10:15 AM. They get 15 minutes to read the instructions and plan their answers. However, no one can write during this period.
The centres will use a specific bell pattern:
- Signals the start (10:30 AM) and the end of the exam.
- Signal various time intervals.
- Rings 15 minutes before the exam ends.
Also Read: CBSE Launched Digital Evaluation System for Class 12 Board Exams 2026
Mandatory Rules for Students of CBSE Board Exams 2026
- Carry the admit card and school ID card.
- Do not bring mobile phones, smartwatches, or calculators.
- Students with disabilities will get extra time as per board norms.
Prepare your kit the night before. Double-check your pens and documents to avoid last-minute stress.
