CBSE Board Exam 2026: Class 10 and 12 subject-wise marks distribution, exam schedule released

CBSE Board Exam 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the subject-wise marks bifurcation for the upcoming Class 10 and Class 12 Board Examinations, scheduled for 2026. The detailed notice is now available for download on the official CBSE website at cbse.gov.in.

This announcement provides clarity on the marking scheme, helping nearly 45 lakh expected candidates across India and 26 countries abroad to structure their preparation effectively.

The newly released bifurcation details the division of maximum marks between theory examinations, practicals, project work, and internal assessments. The structure varies between Class 10 and Class 12, and even among different Class 12 subjects.

• Theory Marks: 80 marks for all subjects.
• Internal Assessment/Project: 20 marks for all subjects.
• This consistent 80:20 ratio simplifies the assessment pattern for Class 10 aspirants.

The marking scheme for Class 12 is more diverse, depending on the nature of the subject:

• Common Pattern 1: 80 marks for Theory and 20 marks for Practical/Internal Assessment.
• Common Pattern 2: 70 marks for Theory and 30 marks for Practical/Project work.
• Common Pattern 3: 60 marks for Theory and 40 marks for Practical work.

This variation underscores the importance for Class 12 students to verify the specific bifurcation for each of their subjects on the official notice.

The board has also announced the examination window for practicals, projects, and internal assessments for both classes.

Schedule: The evaluations will be conducted from January 1, 2026, to February 14, 2026.

Students must complete all their project work and practical file submissions well before this window begins to ensure they are prepared for the internal evaluation.

Direct Link: Class 10 bifurcation of marks

Direct Link: Class 12 bifurcation of marks

The board has outlined the tentative timeframe for the theory examinations.

• CBSE Class 10 Exam Dates: February 17, 2026, to March 10, 2026.
• The exams will commence with Mathematics Standard and Mathematics Basic.
• The final exam for the session will be for the French subject.
• Exam Timing: Most exams will be held in a single shift from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. For a few subjects, the duration will be from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
• CBSE Class 12 Exam Dates: February 17, 2026, to April 9, 2026.
• The detailed date sheet for both classes is expected to be released later in 2025.

The early release of the marks distribution allows students and teachers to align their academic focus with the weightage given to different components. For science and commerce stream students in Class 12, where practicals carry significant marks, this announcement is a reminder to start building their practical records and project work alongside their theory preparation.