CBSE Board has issued a notice related to practical examinations and internal assessments, which all students and teachers should know about.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a very important circular regarding the conduct of Practical Examinations, Projects, and Internal Assessment for Classes 10 and 12. The circular, released on January 1, 2026, serves as Reminder-1 and follows an earlier notice dated December 1, 2025.
CBSE has clearly instructed all affiliated schools to complete all practical-related activities within the prescribed timeline and strictly follow the board’s guidelines to ensure smooth and fair assessments.
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
What is this CBSE circular about?
CBSE has informed schools that Practical Examinations, Internal Assessments, and Project Work for Class X and Class XII (Session 2025–26) have already started from January 1, 2026. The board has listed mandatory actions that schools must take to avoid any disruption or violation of rules.
The board has emphasized timely planning, transparency, and accuracy during the conduct of practical exams.
What must schools ensure before conducting practical exams?
CBSE has directed schools to ensure the availability of sufficient practical answer books well before the exam dates. In case of any shortage or issue, schools must immediately contact the concerned CBSE Regional Office.
Schools must also inform parents and students in advance about the practical exam schedule. This step will help students strictly follow CBSE instructions and avoid confusion.
In addition, CBSE has instructed schools to prepare laboratories properly. Schools must ensure that infrastructure, equipment, and materials are fully ready so that students can perform experiments without difficulty.
How should schools coordinate with external examiners?
CBSE has clearly stated that schools must contact the External Examiners appointed by the Board well in time. Early coordination will help ensure a smooth and orderly conduct of practical examinations and internal assessments.
For Class XII, CBSE has strictly prohibited schools from arranging any alternate external examiner at the local level. Only CBSE-appointed external examiners are authorized to conduct practical examinations.
Connect with us on WhatsApp
What instructions has CBSE given for students and CWSN candidates?
CBSE has clarified that students will appear for practical examinations as per the schedule fixed by their schools. The board has also instructed schools to make special arrangements for Children With Special Needs (CWSN) so that they can participate comfortably in practical exams.
CBSE has further made it clear that no exemption will be granted to students participating in national or international sports events. Such students must also appear for practical exams, and no separate practical exam will be conducted for them.
How and when should marks be uploaded?
CBSE has issued strict instructions regarding marks uploading. Schools must upload marks every day, on the same day the assessment is conducted.
While uploading marks, the school, internal examiner, and external examiner must jointly ensure that correct marks are uploaded. CBSE has clearly stated that no correction will be allowed once marks are submitted.
Principals must also verify the maximum marks assigned to each subject before awarding and uploading marks. The board has warned that requests for correction after the declaration of results will not be entertained.
What happens if CBSE guidelines are not followed?
CBSE has cautioned schools that if they conduct practical exams using an unauthorized examiner, the assessment will be treated as null and void.
Moreover, if the board finds that a school has not complied with CBSE directions, it reserves the right to cancel the practical examination of that school.
What is the timeline for practical exams?
CBSE has instructed schools to conduct all Practical Examinations, Projects, and Internal Assessments strictly between January 1, 2026, and February 14, 2026.
From February 1, 2026, principals must actively review the status of practical exams and marks uploading with vice principals, coordinators, and subject teachers.
Key Dates and Instructions at a Glance
| Item | CBSE Instruction |
|---|---|
| Practical exams start | 1 January 2026 |
| Last date to conduct practicals | 14 February 2026 |
| Marks uploading | Daily, on the same day of assessment |
| External examiner (Class XII) | Only CBSE-appointed |
| Correction in marks | Not allowed after upload |
Has CBSE revised remuneration for exam staff?
Yes. CBSE has informed schools that it has enhanced the remuneration rates for all examination functionaries with effect from Examinations 2026. The revised rates and staff scale for Practical Examinations 2025–26 are provided in Appendix I of the circular.
Key Directives for Schools: A Checklist
Schools have received a clear list of action points from the CBSE. They must adhere to these guidelines for a seamless examination process.
| Preparation & Logistics | Examination & Marking |
|---|---|
| Ensure sufficient practical answer books are available. | Upload awarded marks daily, on the day of assessment. |
| Arrange proper lab infrastructure, equipment, and materials. | No corrections will be allowed after marks are uploaded online. |
| Inform parents and students about the practical exam schedule. | Marks must be awarded solely based on student performance. |
| Contact appointed External Examiners well in time. | Check maximum marks for each subject before uploading. |
| Make necessary arrangements for Children with Special Needs (CWSN). | Practicals can only be conducted by CBSE-appointed external examiners. |
What should schools do in case of doubts?
CBSE has advised schools to contact their respective Regional Offices well in time if they need any clarification regarding the conduct of practical examinations or uploading of marks.
CBSE has extended New Year wishes for 2026 to principals and school teams and has appreciated their continued efforts in maintaining academic integrity and providing a supportive learning environment for students.
This circular is crucial for all CBSE-affiliated schools, teachers, and students, and strict compliance is essential to ensure smooth conduct of Class 10 and 12 Practical Examinations 2026.
