The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released an important notice for Class 12 private candidates regarding the conduct of practical examinations for the 2026 board exams. This announcement comes just before the start of the CBSE Class 10 and 12 theory examinations, with Class 12 theory exams beginning on February 17, 2026.

When Will the Practical Exams Be Held?

CBSE has scheduled the practical examinations for private Class 12 students from February 23 to March 17, 2026. These exams will be conducted at the same centres allotted for the theory examinations.

Who Needs to Appear for Practicals?

The practical exams will be conducted for:

  • Students of 2025 whose practical marks are missing due to Repeat in Practical (RP), Repeat in Theory & Practical Both (RB), or absence.
  • Students of 2024 in similar categories.
  • Students from 2023 and earlier who have applied for full subjects under the private category that include practical components.

What About Project and Internal Assessment?

CBSE has clearly stated that no Project or Internal Assessment will be conducted for subjects that do not have a practical component.

For subjects that include project/internal assessment, marks will be calculated on a pro-rata basis, depending on the marks obtained in the 2026 theory examination.

Important Instructions for Students

Private candidates must:

  • Contact their respective examination centres without fail.
  • Carry a copy of their previous mark sheet/result along with the 2026 admit card.
  • Confirm the date and time of their practical exam from the centre.
  • Reach the examination centre on time.

Guidelines for Examination Centres

  • External examiners will be appointed by CBSE Regional Offices.
  • Internal examiners will be appointed by the Centre Superintendent from school teachers. If needed, teachers from nearby schools may be assigned.
  • Centre Superintendents are not allowed to appoint external examiners on their own.
  • Practical answer books provided by the Regional Offices must be used.
  • Marks must be uploaded on the CBSE portal through the official login before the prescribed deadline.

Regional Offices have been directed to ensure that practical exams are conducted smoothly and that marks are uploaded within the stipulated timeline.

Private candidates are advised to stay in regular touch with their examination centres and carefully follow all instructions to avoid any last-minute issues.