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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2026 for the academic session 2025-26. With over 17 lakh students expected to appear for the Senior School Certificate Examination, CBSE Class 12 Board Exam 2026 remains one of the most significant academic milestones for students across India. The board exams will commence on February 17, 2026, and conclude on April 9, 2026, covering Science, Commerce, and Humanities streams. This comprehensive guide covers everything students need to know about CBSE 12th Exam 2026, including exam dates, syllabus, marking scheme, preparation strategies, and result expectations.
Table of Contents
CBSE Class 12 Exam 2026 Highlights
Before diving into the specifics of the CBSE Class 12 Board Exam 2026, students should familiarize themselves with the key details of the examination. The Central Board of Secondary Education has introduced several student-friendly measures this year, including the early release of the date sheet 110 days before the exam commencement. This proactive approach allows students ample time to plan their preparation strategies effectively.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Examination Name | Senior School Certificate Examination (Class XII) |
| Academic Session | 2025-26 |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) |
| Theory Exam Dates | February 17 to April 9, 2026 |
| Practical Exam Dates (Regular Schools) | January 1 to February 14, 2026 |
| Practical Exam Dates (Winter-bound Schools) | November 6 to December 6, 2025 |
| Exam Timing | 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM |
| Total Duration | 3 Hours (with 15-20 minutes reading time) |
| Total Marks per Subject | 100 (Theory + Practical/Internal Assessment) |
| Passing Marks | 33% (separately in Theory and Practical) |
| Expected Result Date | May 2026 (Tentatively May 20, 2026) |
| Official Website | cbse.gov.in, cbseresults.nic.in |
CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2026
The CBSE has released the final date sheet for Class 12 Board Exams 2026 on October 30, 2025. This marks the first time the board has announced the exam schedule 110 days in advance, giving students substantial preparation time. The examination schedule has been carefully designed to ensure adequate gaps between major subjects, allowing students to prepare thoroughly for each paper. The board analyzed over 40,000 subject combinations to avoid scheduling conflicts for any student.
CBSE Class 12 Science Stream Date Sheet 2026
Students appearing for the Science stream examinations will have their papers scheduled between February and March 2026. The core subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology are strategically spaced to provide sufficient revision time between consecutive exams.
| Date | Subject | Subject Code |
|---|---|---|
| February 17, 2026 | Biotechnology / Entrepreneurship | 045 / 066 |
| February 20, 2026 | Physics | 042 |
| February 26, 2026 | English Core | 301 |
| March 3, 2026 | Chemistry | 043 |
| March 9, 2026 | Mathematics | 041 |
| March 14, 2026 | Computer Science / Informatics Practices | 083 / 065 |
| March 18, 2026 | Physical Education | 048 |
| March 27, 2026 | Biology | 044 |
CBSE Class 12 Commerce Stream Date Sheet 2026
Commerce students will have their examinations for subjects like Accountancy, Business Studies, and Economics scheduled with proper intervals. The date sheet ensures students can focus on both theoretical concepts and practical applications of commerce subjects.
| Date | Subject | Subject Code |
|---|---|---|
| February 17, 2026 | Entrepreneurship | 066 |
| February 22, 2026 | Business Studies | 054 |
| February 26, 2026 | English Core | 301 |
| March 1, 2026 | Accountancy | 055 |
| March 9, 2026 | Mathematics / Applied Mathematics | 041 / 241 |
| March 14, 2026 | Informatics Practices | 065 |
| March 22, 2026 | Economics | 030 |
CBSE Class 12 Arts/Humanities Stream Date Sheet 2026
Humanities stream students will appear for subjects including History, Political Science, Geography, and Psychology. The examination schedule accommodates the diverse range of subjects available under this stream.
| Date | Subject | Subject Code |
|---|---|---|
| February 24, 2026 | History | 027 |
| February 26, 2026 | English Core | 301 |
| March 5, 2026 | Political Science | 028 |
| March 11, 2026 | Geography | 029 |
| March 15, 2026 | Sociology | 039 |
| March 18, 2026 | Physical Education | 048 |
| March 20, 2026 | Psychology | 037 |
| March 22, 2026 | Economics | 030 |
CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2026
The CBSE has introduced a competency-based assessment pattern for the Class 12 Board Exams 2026. This pattern emphasizes application-based learning, critical thinking, and analytical skills rather than rote memorization. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation and scoring well in the board examinations.
CBSE 12th Question Paper Pattern 2026
The revised exam pattern for CBSE Class 12 focuses on testing students' conceptual understanding and practical application of knowledge. The question papers will include a mix of objective and subjective questions designed to evaluate comprehensive learning outcomes.
| Question Type | Weightage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| MCQs (Select Response Type) | 20% | Multiple Choice Questions testing basic concepts |
| Competency-Based Questions | 50% | Case-based, source-based, and assertion-reasoning questions |
| Constructed Response Questions | 30% | Short answer and long answer type questions |
CBSE Class 12 Marking Scheme 2026
Each subject in CBSE Class 12 carries a total of 100 marks, distributed between theory examination and practical/internal assessment. The division of marks varies depending on whether the subject includes laboratory work or project-based assessment.
| Subject Category | Theory Marks | Practical/Internal Assessment | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics, Chemistry, Biology | 70 | 30 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| English Core | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Accountancy | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Business Studies | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Economics | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| History, Political Science, Geography | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Computer Science | 70 | 30 | 100 |
| Physical Education | 70 | 30 | 100 |
CBSE Class 12 Syllabus 2026
The CBSE Class 12 Syllabus 2025-26 has been released on the official website cbseacademic.nic.in. The syllabus follows the NCERT curriculum and focuses on competency-based learning. Students should complete the entire syllabus as prescribed by the board, with no reduction in content for the 2026 examinations. Each subject has specific unit-wise weightage that helps students prioritize their preparation.
CBSE Class 12 Physics Chapter-wise Weightage 2026
| Unit | Chapter Name | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Unit I | Electrostatics | 16 |
| Unit II | Current Electricity | - |
| Unit III | Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism | 17 |
| Unit IV | Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents | - |
| Unit V | Electromagnetic Waves | 18 |
| Unit VI | Optics | - |
| Unit VII | Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter | 12 |
| Unit VIII | Atoms and Nuclei | - |
| Unit IX | Electronic Devices | 7 |
| Total Theory | 70 | |
CBSE Class 12 Mathematics Chapter-wise Weightage 2026
| Unit | Chapter Name | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Unit I | Relations and Functions | 8 |
| Unit II | Algebra (Matrices and Determinants) | 10 |
| Unit III | Calculus | 35 |
| Unit IV | Vectors and 3-D Geometry | 14 |
| Unit V | Linear Programming | 5 |
| Unit VI | Probability | 8 |
| Total Theory | 80 | |
CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Chapter-wise Weightage 2026
| Unit | Chapter Name | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Unit I | Solid State | 23 |
| Unit II | Solutions | - |
| Unit III | Electrochemistry | - |
| Unit IV | Chemical Kinetics | - |
| Unit V | Surface Chemistry | - |
| Unit VI | General Principles of Isolation of Elements | 19 |
| Unit VII | p-Block Elements | - |
| Unit VIII | d and f Block Elements | - |
| Unit IX | Coordination Compounds | - |
| Unit X | Organic Chemistry (Haloalkanes to Biomolecules) | 28 |
| Total Theory | 70 | |
CBSE Class 12 Practical Exam 2026
The CBSE Class 12 Practical Examinations for the academic session 2025-26 are scheduled from January 1 to February 14, 2026, for regular schools. Winter-bound schools have already conducted their practicals between November 6 and December 6, 2025. The practical examination carries significant weightage in the final result and requires thorough preparation.
CBSE Practical Exam Guidelines 2026
- External examiners will be appointed by CBSE for Class 12 practical examinations
- Schools must conduct practicals within the notified schedule with no date extensions
- Batch size should not exceed 30 students per session
- Geo-tagged and time-tagged group photographs are mandatory for each batch
- Practical marks will not be disclosed to students under any circumstances
- Marks uploaded to the CBSE portal cannot be modified once finalized
- Both Internal and External Examiners must provide a joint undertaking for accuracy
CBSE Class 12 Admit Card 2026
The CBSE Class 12 Admit Card 2026 is expected to be released in the first week of February 2026 on the official website cbse.gov.in. Regular students will collect their admit cards from their respective schools, while private candidates can download them directly from the official portal. The admit card is a mandatory document for appearing in both practical and theory examinations.
Details Mentioned on CBSE 12th Admit Card
- Student's Name and Photograph
- Father's/Guardian's Name
- Roll Number and Admit Card ID
- School Name and Code
- Examination Centre Name, Address, and Code
- Subject-wise Exam Dates and Timings
- Category and PwD Status (if applicable)
- Important Instructions for Exam Day
Items Allowed in CBSE Exam Hall
| Permitted Items | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Printed Admit Card | Mobile Phones |
| School ID Card | Electronic Devices |
| Blue/Black Ball Point Pen | Bluetooth Devices |
| Transparent Pouch for Stationery | Calculators (unless specified) |
| Geometry Box (for Maths) | Smart Watches |
| Water Bottle (Transparent) | Wallets and Handbags |
CBSE Class 12 Result 2025: Previous Year Analysis
The CBSE Class 12 Result 2025 was declared on May 13, 2025, with an overall pass percentage of 88.39%, showing a marginal improvement from 87.98% in 2024. Understanding the previous year's result trends helps students set realistic goals and understand the competitive landscape of the examination.
CBSE Class 12 Result Statistics 2025
| Parameter | Statistics 2025 | Statistics 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Pass Percentage | 88.39% | 87.98% |
| Girls Pass Percentage | 91.64% | 91.52% |
| Boys Pass Percentage | 85.70% | 85.12% |
| Transgender Pass Percentage | 100% | 50% |
| Students Scoring Above 90% | 1,11,544 | - |
| Students Scoring Above 95% | 24,867 | - |
| Total Candidates Appeared | 16,92,794 | - |
| Total Candidates Passed | 14,96,307 | - |
CBSE Class 12 Region-wise Pass Percentage 2025
| Region | Pass Percentage |
|---|---|
| Vijayawada | 99.60% |
| Trivandrum | 99.32% |
| Chennai | 97.39% |
| Bengaluru | 95.95% |
| Delhi West | 95.37% |
| Delhi East | 95.06% |
| Chandigarh | 91.61% |
| Pune | 90.93% |
| Ajmer | 90.40% |
| Patna | 82.86% |
School Category-wise Performance 2025
| School Category | Pass Percentage |
|---|---|
| Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) | 99.29% |
| Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) | 99.05% |
| Central Tibetan Schools (STSS) | 98.96% |
| Government Aided Schools | 91.57% |
| Government Schools | 90.48% |
| Independent (Private) Schools | 87.94% |
CBSE Class 12 Previous Year Question Papers
Solving CBSE Class 12 Previous Year Question Papers is essential for understanding the exam pattern, question types, and marking scheme. The board uploads question papers from previous years on its official website, allowing students to practice under exam-like conditions. Regular practice with these papers improves time management skills and builds confidence.
CBSE Class 12 Previous Year Papers Download Links
| Resource | Official Website |
|---|---|
| Previous Year Question Papers (2025, 2024, 2023) | cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/question-paper.html |
| Sample Question Papers 2025-26 | cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/samplepaper.html |
| Marking Scheme and Answer Keys | cbseacademic.nic.in |
| Syllabus and Curriculum Documents | cbseacademic.nic.in |
CBSE Class 12 Preparation Tips 2026: How to Score Above 90%
Scoring above 90% in CBSE Class 12 Board Exams requires a strategic approach, consistent effort, and smart preparation. The key lies in understanding concepts rather than rote learning, practicing previous year papers, and maintaining a balanced study schedule. Here are expert-recommended preparation tips for CBSE Class 12 students aiming for top scores.
Subject-wise Preparation Strategy
Physics Preparation Tips
- Focus on high-weightage chapters: Electrostatics, Current Electricity, and Optics
- Practice derivations and numerical problems daily
- Draw clear, labeled diagrams for all important concepts
- Solve at least 5 years of previous year question papers
- Maintain a formula notebook for quick revision
Chemistry Preparation Tips
- Divide preparation into Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry
- Memorize named reactions, mechanisms, and reagents in Organic Chemistry
- Practice numerical problems from Electrochemistry and Chemical Kinetics
- Focus on NCERT for Inorganic Chemistry as questions are often direct
- Create flowcharts for reaction processes and coordination compounds
Mathematics Preparation Tips
- Prioritize Calculus as it carries 35 marks (highest weightage)
- Practice step-by-step problem solving for full marks
- Master integration techniques and application of derivatives
- Revise 3-D Geometry and Vector formulas regularly
- Solve CBSE sample papers within the 3-hour time limit
Biology Preparation Tips
- Focus on Genetics and Evolution unit (highest weightage of 20 marks)
- Draw and label diagrams for all biological processes
- Understand reproductive biology and biotechnology concepts thoroughly
- Read NCERT textbook line by line as questions are often direct
- Make charts for comparison-based questions
Commerce Stream Preparation Tips
- Accountancy: Practice journal entries, ledger accounts, and financial statements daily
- Business Studies: Focus on definitions, features, and process-based questions
- Economics: Understand both Microeconomics and Macroeconomics concepts with diagrams
- Create mnemonics for remembering lists and features
- Practice case study-based questions from sample papers
General Preparation Tips for All Streams
- Complete NCERT First: NCERT textbooks are the primary source for CBSE exams with 60-70% questions coming directly from them
- Create a Realistic Timetable: Allocate more time to difficult subjects and high-weightage chapters
- Solve Sample Papers: Practice CBSE Class 12 Sample Papers 2026 to understand the latest exam pattern
- Revise Regularly: Dedicate at least 1 month exclusively for revision before exams
- Write Practice Answers: Improve answer-writing skills by practicing within word limits
- Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to build time management skills
- Focus on Presentation: Use headings, bullet points, and diagrams for better marks
- Stay Healthy: Maintain proper sleep, nutrition, and take regular breaks
CBSE Class 12 Result 2026: Expected Timeline
The CBSE Class 12 Result 2026 is expected to be declared by May 20, 2026, following the pattern of previous years. Students can check their results on official websites cbseresults.nic.in and cbse.gov.in using their roll number and school number. The board will also provide digital mark sheets through DigiLocker.
How to Check CBSE Class 12 Result 2026
- Visit cbseresults.nic.in or results.cbse.nic.in
- Click on "CBSE Class 12 Result 2026" link
- Enter Roll Number, School Number, and Date of Birth
- Click Submit to view the result
- Download and print the scorecard for future reference
- Access digital mark sheet through DigiLocker app using roll number
CBSE Class 12 Compartment Exam 2026
Students who fail in one or two subjects in the CBSE Class 12 Board Exams 2026 will be eligible to appear for the Compartment Examination. The CBSE 12th Compartment Exam is expected to be held in July 2026, with results likely to be announced by August 2026. Students must register separately for compartment exams after the declaration of results.
Frequently Asked Questions on CBSE Class 12 Board Exam 2026
Q1. When will CBSE Class 12 Board Exams 2026 start?
The CBSE Class 12 Board Exams 2026 will commence on February 17, 2026, and conclude on April 9, 2026. The practical examinations for regular schools will be conducted from January 1 to February 14, 2026.
Q2. What is the exam pattern for CBSE Class 12 in 2026?
The CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2026 includes 20% MCQs, 50% competency-based questions (case-based, assertion-reasoning), and 30% short and long answer questions. The exam duration is 3 hours with 15-20 minutes reading time.
Q3. What are the passing marks for CBSE Class 12 Board Exams?
Students must secure at least 33% marks separately in both theory and practical/internal assessment components of each subject to pass CBSE Class 12 exams. The overall aggregate should also be 33% minimum.
Q4. How can I download CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2026?
Visit the official website cbse.gov.in, go to the "Latest @ CBSE" section, and click on the date sheet link for Class XII 2026. The PDF can be downloaded and printed for reference.
Q5. Is NCERT sufficient for CBSE Class 12 Board Exams?
Yes, NCERT textbooks are the primary and most important resource for CBSE Class 12 preparation. Approximately 60-70% of questions come directly from NCERT. Students should complete NCERT thoroughly before referring to additional reference books.
Q6. Will CBSE conduct two board exams in 2026?
Yes, CBSE has proposed conducting board exams twice a year starting from 2026 for Class 10 students following NEP 2020 guidelines. Phase 1 will be from February 17 to April 9, 2026, and Phase 2 from May 15 to June 1, 2026. However, this applies primarily to Class 10; Class 12 students will have single-phase examinations.
Q7. When will the CBSE 12th Admit Card 2026 be released?
The CBSE Class 12 Admit Card 2026 is expected to be released in the first week of February 2026. Regular students will collect it from their schools, while private candidates can download it from cbse.gov.in.
Q8. How many students appeared for CBSE Class 12 in 2025?
A total of 16,92,794 students appeared for the CBSE Class 12 Board Examination 2025, out of which 14,96,307 students passed, resulting in an overall pass percentage of 88.39%.
Q9. What is the best way to prepare for CBSE Class 12 Board Exams in 2 months?
In 2 months, focus on completing the NCERT syllabus, solving previous year question papers and sample papers, making short revision notes, practicing high-weightage topics, and taking regular mock tests. Prioritize subjects based on exam dates and personal strengths.
Q10. How can I score above 95% in CBSE Class 12?
To score above 95%, study NCERT textbooks thoroughly, solve at least 5 years of previous year papers, practice writing answers within time limits, focus on presentation and diagrams, attempt all questions, and revise regularly. Consistent effort and smart study strategies are key.
Q11. What happens if I fail in one subject in CBSE Class 12?
Students who fail in one or two subjects can appear for the CBSE Compartment Examination 2026, which is expected to be held in July 2026. If a student fails in more than two subjects, they must reappear for the entire examination in the following year.
Q12. Will CBSE release the toppers list for 2026?
No, CBSE does not officially release the toppers list to avoid unhealthy competition among students. However, the board awards merit certificates to the top 0.1% scorers in each subject.
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