CBSE Board Exams Commence Today

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to kick off the Class 10th and 12th board examinations today, February 17, 2026. This year, over 4.6 million students are expected to participate in these exams, which will take place across 26 countries, both in India and internationally. The board has finalized all necessary arrangements to facilitate this extensive examination process and has released crucial guidelines for students and their guardians.

Exam Timing and Entry Requirements

The CBSE has announced that the examinations will start at 10:30 a.m. Students are required to arrive at their respective examination centers by 10:00 a.m. sharp. It is important to note that entry will not be permitted after this time. Examination Controller Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj has emphasized the importance of punctuality to prevent any last-minute stress.

Traffic Considerations

During the examination period, various national and international conferences and high-profile meetings will be taking place across the country. This may lead to traffic management measures, route changes, and heightened security in several cities. The CBSE has raised concerns that students might face delays in reaching their exam centers due to potential traffic congestion or detours. Therefore, students are encouraged to leave home early, considering local traffic conditions, weather, and distance.

Guidance for Students and Parents

The Board has recommended that students familiarize themselves with the location of their exam centers in advance. If possible, they should plan their route to avoid confusion on the day of the exam. Schools are also encouraged to assist students and parents with time management and travel planning. Parents should ensure that their children depart well ahead of time to guarantee they arrive by 10:00 a.m. (Indian Standard Time) without fail.