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CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams are expected to begin in February 2027. Here is what students should know about the timetable, exam pattern, eligibility and assessment rules.
By Prabhav AnandUpdated
According to the board's policy, the first examination begins in mid-February, while the second is scheduled for May. These are the prescribed examination windows, not confirmed subject-wise dates for 2027.
Students who pass the first examination can seek improvement in up to three subjects from Science, Mathematics, Social Science and languages. Students placed in the compartment category may also appear in the second examination under the applicable eligibility rules.
However, students who fail to appear in three or more subjects in the first examination cannot use the second examination as an alternative. Both examinations cover the full prescribed syllabus, and internal assessments are conducted only once.
The two-examination system applies to Class 10, not Class 12. Class 12 students continue under the main examination and supplementary examination system.
What is the CBSE board exam pattern for 2027?
CBSE has retained its emphasis on competency-based assessment, which tests students' understanding and application of concepts rather than relying entirely on memorised answers.
Under the existing question-paper design for Classes 10 and 12, the broad distribution is 50% competency-focused questions, 20% selected-response questions and 30% short- and long-answer questions. The board's 2026-27 sample papers indicate no change in the assessment pattern.
Most major Class 10 subjects carry 80 marks for the theory examination and 20 marks for internal assessment. In Class 12, the distribution depends on the subject. Physics, Chemistry and Biology, for example, generally carry 70 marks for theory and 30 for practical assessment.
Students can access the official question papers and marking schemes here:
The sample papers explain the number and types of questions, available internal choices, examination duration and marking scheme for each subject.
What rules must students follow for the CBSE exams?
CBSE requires regular candidates to maintain at least 75% attendance to qualify for the board examinations. Attendance shortages may be considered for relaxation in permitted circumstances, subject to documentary evidence and the board's rules.
Schools must submit the List of Candidates (LOC), containing students' personal details and examination subjects. In a reminder issued on October 9, CBSE directed affiliated schools to complete the 2026-27 LOC submission by October 21, 2026. Students and parents should ensure that names, dates of birth and selected subjects are recorded correctly.
On examination days, students must carry their admit cards and required identification, follow the reporting instructions, and use only permitted stationery. Mobile phones, smartwatches and other prohibited electronic devices are not allowed inside examination centres. Violations can attract penalties under CBSE's unfair-means rules.
Students should also complete their practical examinations, projects and internal assessments according to the instructions communicated by their schools.
With the official date sheet still awaited, students can use CBSE's published syllabus, sample papers and marking schemes to prepare. Any changes to examination dates, eligibility or other rules should be verified through the board's official notifications.
Please note: This explainer is based on official CBSE notifications and examination policies available as of October 13, 2026. The date sheet and related details should be updated when CBSE issues further instructions.
