The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) recently issued a crucial notice. It concerns the List of Candidates (LOC) for the 2026 Class 10 and 12 board exams. Schools must submit data accurately and on time. Only students on the LOC can take the exams.
For the first time, the Class 10 LOC includes provisions for a new two-board exam policy. All students must appear for the main exam in February 2026. The LOC must include every candidate. Also, schools must link students’ APAAR IDs. This is mandatory for all Indian schools. Schools abroad are exempt.
The second board exam for Class 10 will take place in May 2026. Principals must hold orientation sessions for students and parents. This will help them understand the new policy.
Deadlines and Fee Payments
- Fee Submission Window:
- Normal Fee: August 29 to September 30, 2025.
- Late Fee: Until October 11, 2025.
- Payment Method: Only digital payments will be accepted.
- Data Verification: Schools must carefully verify all student details. This includes personal information, subject codes, and categories.
- Corrections: No corrections will be allowed after the final submission deadline.
Special Guidelines for CBSE Board Exams 2026
- Children With Special Needs (CWSN): There are special provisions for these students. A new portal will be available this year. Schools must upload CWSN data before the LOC deadline.
- Newly Affiliated Schools: These schools must first register on the OASIS and HPE portals. They can then upload the LOC data.
- Teacher Strength: The number of candidates a school sponsors must match its teacher count. This rule will affect evaluator appointments.
CBSE to Introduce Open-Book Exams for Class 9 from 2026-27
After submission, a data verification slip will be generated for each student in October 2025. The board allows schools to make limited corrections before it locks the final records. The Board has warned against excuses for incorrect or incomplete data.
