The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will soon release the admit cards for Class 10 and Class 12 board exams for regular students taking the 2026 examinations. Exams for both classes are set to begin from February 17, 2026 . CBSE has already released admit cards for private candidates, who can download them now. Regular students can expect their hall tickets about 7 to 15 days before the main theory exams start. This means they will likely be available in the first week of February 2026. All students must carry a printed copy of their admit card to the exam center every day.
CBSE 2026 Board Exam Dates
The main theory exams for CBSE Class 10 and Class 12 students will start on February 17, 2026 . Class 10 exams are expected to finish by mid-March. Class 12 exams will continue until early April 2026. The board has made some small changes to the schedule, moving a few exam dates from early March to later in March or April. These changes were made for administrative reasons. The main exams will be written on paper using pens. This is the primary way students will take their tests.
For students who wish to improve their scores or who need to take a compartment exam, a second optional exam will be held later in May or June 2026 . This gives students another chance to perform well. The CBSE board is also focusing on a learning method where students understand and apply concepts rather than just memorizing them. This is called competency-based learning and is a key part of the current education system.
How to Get Your Admit Card
Students can download their CBSE 2026 admit cards from the official CBSE website or through direct links that will be made available. Private candidates can already access their admit cards. Regular students will get theirs closer to the exam dates.
For regular students, schools will usually get the admit cards from CBSE first. Then, students will collect their admit cards directly from their school. Schools will announce the exact dates and times for collection. It is very important to get your admit card on time. This document is like your entry ticket to the exam hall. Without it, you will not be allowed to write your exams. Make sure to keep it safe and avoid any damage to it, as you will need it for every exam paper.
Private candidates will download their admit card directly online.
Here are the direct links, which will become active once the admit cards are released for regular students:
| CBSE 2026 Class 10 Admit Card Direct Link | (Link will be updated when available) |
| CBSE 2026 Class 12 Admit Card Direct Link | (Link will be updated when available) |
It is important for all students to check their admit card carefully as soon as they receive it. Look for any errors in your personal details or exam information. Make sure your name, roll number, date of birth, and the subject codes for your exams are all correct. If you find any mistakes, you must contact your school immediately. Private candidates should reach out to their regional CBSE office without delay to get any errors corrected.
Important Rules for Exam Day
To ensure a smooth exam experience, students must follow certain rules on each exam day. These rules are strict and help maintain fairness and order in the examination centers.
- You must bring a printed copy of your original CBSE 2026 admit card to the examination center every day. Showing a digital copy on your mobile phone or any other device is not allowed and will be strictly checked.
- Regular students need to carry their school identity (ID) card along with their admit card. This helps confirm their identity.
- Private candidates must carry a valid government photo ID. Examples include an Aadhaar card , PAN card, driving license, or passport. This is crucial for verifying who they are.
- Reach the exam center well before the scheduled start time. This gives you enough time to find your seating and settle down without rush.
- Do not bring any unauthorized materials into the exam hall. This includes notes, books, or electronic gadgets like smartwatches and mobile phones. Breaking this rule can lead to serious consequences.
- Listen carefully to all instructions given by the invigilators at the exam center. Follow their directions for filling out your answer sheet and for any other exam procedures.
Following these simple guidelines will help you avoid any problems and focus entirely on your examination. The CBSE board aims to provide a fair and secure environment for all students taking the Class 10 and 12 board exams in 2026.
