The CBSE Class 10 and 12 Board Exams 2026 will begin on February 17. As students nationwide gear up for these crucial tests, staying calm and aware of all exam-day guidelines is essential.
Nearly 46 lakh students from more than 8,000 schools in India and abroad will take the exams this year. To help you face the exam day with confidence, this comprehensive blog will dive deep into the key instructions, dress code rules, permitted items, and essential dos and don’ts.
➨ Also Read: CBSE Board Exam 2026: Fresh Reforms Bring Second Chances, Digital Evaluation for Classes 10 & 12
CBSE Board Exam 2026: Key Exam-Day Guidelines
Students appearing for the exam must keep the following essential points in mind:
- Arrive Ahead of Time: Make sure to reach your exam centre well before the scheduled start. You should ideally arrive at least half an hour early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Mandatory Documents: Do not forget to bring your 2026 board exam admit card along with your school identity card, as entry will not be permitted without both.
- Carry Only Approved Items: Leave all electronic gadgets and non-permitted articles at home. Please note that these are strictly banned inside the examination hall.
- Follow the Dress Code: Attend the exam in your complete school uniform to comply with the board’s dress guidelines for candidates.
- Verify Your Seating Details: After arriving at the centre, check the notice board to locate your designated room and seat before entering.
- Make Good Use of Reading Time: Use the initial 15 minutes provided for reading the question paper to study the format. Also, understand the marks distribution and decide how you will attempt the paper.
Permitted & Prohibited Items
| Permitted Items | Prohibited Items |
| Admit card & school ID | Mobile phones & Bluetooth devices |
| Geometry box, scale, & writing pad | Textbooks, notes, & flashcards |
| Blue/royal blue ink pen, pencil, & eraser | Earphones, smartwatches, & cameras |
| Transparent water bottle | Wallets, handbags, goggles, & pouches |
| Metro card, bus pass, & money | Any other electronic device |
| Transparent pouch for stationery | Unauthorised study material |
| Analog watch (without calculator) | Any food or drink (except for diabetics with permission) |
CBSE Board Exam 2026 Dress Code
For Regular Students
All Class 10 and 12 regular candidates are required to appear for the exam in their complete school uniform. Students who are not dressed in the prescribed uniform may be denied entry by the centre authorities. So, this dress code is compulsory for both male and female students.
Dress Code for Girls
- Clothing: Opt for simple, light-shaded clothing. Avoid wearing bulky or layered outfits.
- Accessories: Refrain from wearing any jewellery, including earrings, nose studs, bangles, rings, anklets, or chains.
- Footwear: Use flat slippers or basic chappals; heels are not permitted.
Dress Code for Boys
- Upper Wear: Choose plain, light-coloured shirts or T-shirts. Steer clear of garments with zippered pockets or oversized buttons.
- Bottom Wear: Wear simple trousers or pants without extra detailing.
- Footwear: Sandals, slippers, or regular shoes are acceptable.
For Private Candidates
Private candidates should dress in light and comfortable attire, according to the board’s guidelines.
Dos for the Exam
- Verify your documents: Make sure your admit card is with you. Without it, you won’t be allowed inside.
- Stay composed: Take slow, deep breaths to maintain focus throughout the exam.
- Allocate time wisely: Distribute your time across sections so you don’t get stuck on a single question.
- Present your work neatly: Keep margins and write clearly to make your answer sheet easy to evaluate.
- Try every question: Even brief attempts can earn partial marks. So, try all the questions.
- Recheck your paper: Also, use the remaining time to spot mistakes or unanswered questions before handing it in.
Don’ts for the Exam
- Avoid studying at the last minute: It increases stress and reduces clarity.
- Don’t panic if a question seems difficult: Stay steady and move on; you can return to it later.
- Do not bring banned items: Carrying restricted items can result in severe penalties.
- No talking inside the hall: Any communication with other students can result in disciplinary action.
- Avoid excessive overwriting: It can make the response unclear and hard to read.
- Don’t leave early: Use every minute available to revise your answers carefully.
Final Tips to Stay Relaxed on Exam Day
- Get Proper Rest: You should ensure you sleep for at least 7–8 hours the night before. A fresh, well-rested mind performs far better during exams.
- Have a Nutritious Breakfast: Start your day with a healthy meal to maintain steady energy and focus while writing the paper.
- Maintain a Positive Attitude: Enter the examination hall with confidence. Believe in your preparation and trust your abilities.
All the very best for your exam, and if you are aspiring to kickstart your MBBS journey after class 12th, feel free to reach out to us for complete assistance.
FAQs
Q.1 What is the new rule of CBSE 2026?
Answer: CBSE is introducing a two-exam system for Class 10; the first board exam in February is compulsory, and students may take a second optional attempt in May to improve scores. This gives learners an added chance without waiting a full year, with the better result counted. However, for CBSE Class 12 in 2026, the board isn’t offering a second full board attempt like for Class 10.
Q.2 Can I score 95% in 15 days?
Answer: Scoring 95% in just 15 days is possible only if your basics are already strong. Use this time for intense revision, solving past papers, and focusing on weak areas. Avoid learning new topics now. With disciplined study and smart planning, a big improvement is achievable. However, results vary for each student.
Q.3 Is 100% possible in CBSE?
Answer: Achieving a perfect score in the CBSE board exams is attainable with a solid study strategy, regular practice, and a motivated mindset.
Q.4 Is 33 out of 100 a pass or a fail?
Answer: To pass any subject in the external examination, a student must score at least 33%. For subjects that include practicals, students need a minimum of 33% in theory, 33% in practicals, and an overall 33% combined score to be considered qualified in that subject.
Q.5 Is the CBSE board 2026 going to be tough?
Answer: CBSE is moving away from rote learning and focusing more on competency-based assessment. This means exams will test how well students can understand concepts and apply them in real situations. Question papers may include a balanced mix of application-based items and descriptive questions.
