CBSE Announced SOPs and Guidelines for Practical Exams 2026: Students & Schools

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and detailed guidelines for practical examinations, projects, and internal assessments for the academic session 2025–26. These instructions apply to Class 10 and Class 12 students across all CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad.

Why CBSE Released SOPs for Practical Exams

Practical exams play a crucial role in CBSE board results. In recent years, CBSE noticed differences in how schools were conducting practicals—differences in marking, lab arrangements, examiner coordination, and marks submission.

To maintain fairness, transparency, and uniformity, CBSE introduced detailed SOPs so that:

• Every student is assessed under the same standards

• Marks are awarded fairly and accurately

• No school follows its own unofficial process

• Errors in marks submission are avoided

These SOPs are mandatory, not optional.

CBSE Practical Exam Dates 2026

CBSE has clearly defined the practical exam schedule. Schools cannot change or extend these dates on their own.

🔹 For Regular CBSE Schools

• Practical Exam Window:
  1 January 2026 to 14 February 2026

🔹 For Winter-Bound Schools

• Practical Exam Window:
  6 November 2025 to 6 December 2025

CBSE has clearly stated that no extension will be granted beyond these timelines. Schools must complete exams and upload marks within this period.

Who Conducts and Evaluates CBSE Practical Exams?

🔹 Class 10 Practical Exams

• Mostly conducted and evaluated by internal examiners (school teachers)

• Schools must strictly follow the CBSE syllabus and marking scheme

🔹 Class 12 Practical Exams

• Conducted with the involvement of external examiners for most subjects

• External examiners are appointed by CBSE

• Internal examiners (school teachers) assist in coordination

Both examiners must ensure:

• Correct evaluation

• Fair marking

• Proper documentation

Batch Size, Student Groups & Lab Rules

CBSE has given specific instructions on how students should be managed during practical exams:

• Maximum 30 students per batch

• Schools can divide students into smaller groups for lab convenience

• Each student must get adequate time and attention

• Overcrowding in labs is strictly prohibited

Laboratory Requirements

Before practical exams begin:

• Labs must be fully functional

• Required chemicals, instruments, and equipment must be available

• Safety items like fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and safety goggles must be present

• External examiners may inspect labs one day before exams

Marks Distribution & Assessment Components

CBSE practical evaluation may include:

• Hands-on practical performance

• Viva voce (oral exam)

• Project work

• Record files and lab notebooks

• Internal assessment (as per subject)

Each subject has a defined marks breakup, which schools must follow exactly.

Uploading Practical Marks: Very Important Rules

This is one of the strictest parts of CBSE’s SOPs.

🔴 Key Rules:

• Marks must be uploaded on the CBSE online portal

• Uploading should begin immediately after the practical exam

• Once marks are submitted, they CANNOT be edited

• Schools are advised to cross-check marks carefully

• Delayed or incorrect uploads can lead to serious consequences

CBSE may also monitor daily uploads to ensure transparency.

Instructions for Students (Easy Checklist)

Students appearing for CBSE practical exams should follow these simple rules:

1. Reach the exam venue on time

2. Carry required materials:

• Lab coat

• Record file / project file

• Calculator (if allowed)

• Safety equipment (if required)

3. Do not carry mobile phones inside labs

4. Follow lab safety instructions carefully

5. Answer viva questions honestly and calmly

6. Ensure your project work is your own original work

Missing a practical exam without a valid reason can seriously affect your final result.

Guidelines for Students with Special Needs

CBSE has clearly instructed schools to provide equal opportunities to students with disabilities.

Possible facilities include:

• Extra time

• Scribe or reader

• Accessible lab setup

• Modified practical tasks (as per CBSE norms)

Schools must make arrangements in advance and ensure dignity and fairness during exams.

Responsibilities of Schools & Principals

Schools play a major role in the smooth conduct of practical exams.

Schools Must:

• Follow CBSE dates strictly

• Appoint qualified examiners

• Prepare labs in advance

• Ensure attendance records are maintained

• Upload marks correctly and on time

• Keep all documents ready for inspection

CBSE has warned that any negligence or violation may lead to disciplinary action.

Penalties for Not Following CBSE SOPs

CBSE has clearly stated that strict action may be taken against schools that:

• Conduct practicals outside the allowed dates

• Upload incorrect marks

• Fail to involve external examiners (where required)

• Ignore safety or accessibility rules

Actions may include:

• Withholding of student results

• Re-examination orders

• Disciplinary action against the school

Why These SOPs Matter for Students

These guidelines ensure that:

• No student is unfairly marked

• Every student gets equal opportunity

• Practical marks truly reflect performance

• Board results remain credible and transparent

For students, this means less confusion and more clarity.

In The Words of Shikso

The CBSE SOPs and guidelines for practical exams 2026 are designed to protect students’ interests and maintain uniform academic standards across India. By clearly defining dates, roles, and procedures, CBSE has made the system more transparent and student-friendly.

Students should stay calm, prepare sincerely, and follow instructions. Schools must act responsibly and ensure full compliance.

If followed properly, these SOPs will ensure that every student gets a fair and honest assessment.