CBSE board exams 2026: No entry after 10 am, PwD students to get extra time; full exam-day guidelines here

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued clear instructions for students appearing in the 2026 board examinations. The Board has stated that no student will be allowed to enter the examination centre after 10:00 AM for the morning session. The exams will begin at 10:30 AM.

CBSE Controller of Examinations, Sanyam Bhardwaj, shared the rule regarding the 10:00 AM entry closure along with details of the exam-day schedule and the bell pattern that will be followed at centres. The directions apply to both Class 10 and Class 12 candidates.

CBSE board exam 2026: Entry closes at 10 AM sharp

According to the Board, gates of all examination centres will shut at 10:00 AM. Students reaching after this time will not be permitted to enter, regardless of the reason for delay.

Since the examination begins at 10:30 AM, candidates are advised to reach the centre well before the closing time. Arriving by 9:30 AM will allow enough time for checking of admit cards, locating the examination room and completing other formalities.

Schools have been asked to inform the parents and students that the reporting time is very strict. Students, while planning their journey, should also consider the traffic, public transport timings and distance.

Question paper distribution and reading time

Question papers will be handed out at 10:15 AM. Students will get 15 minutes to read the paper before writing begins at 10:30 AM.

During this reading period, candidates can:

• Go through all sections of the question paper
• Note internal choices
• Decide the sequence in which they want to attempt questions

Writing answers during the reading time is not allowed. The purpose of this period is to help students understand the structure of the paper before they begin.

Bell pattern during the examination

CBSE has also specified the bell system that will be followed in examination halls.

• A long bell will ring at the start of the exam at 10:30 AM.
• A long bell will also mark the end of the paper.
• Short bells will indicate time intervals during the exam.
• A warning bell will be given before the last 15 minutes.

Students should pay attention to these signals and divide their time carefully across sections.

Instructions students must follow

Candidates must carry their admit card and school identity card to the centre. Electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartwatches and calculators (unless permitted for specific subjects) are not allowed inside the examination hall.

Students falling under the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category will receive additional time as per CBSE rules.

With examinations being conducted across the country, the Board has made it clear that timing rules will be strictly enforced. Reaching the centre on time is essential. Students are advised to prepare their documents the night before the exam and plan their travel to avoid last-minute issues.
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