In a move much anticipated by students, parents, and educators across Chhattisgarh, the Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) has officially released the 2026 board exam date sheet for both Class 10 (High School) and Class 12 (Higher Secondary) examinations. The complete timetable is now available on the board’s website at cgbse.nic.in, giving students ample time to plan their revision strategy, mark their calendars, and mentally gear up for the big stretch ahead.

Key Highlights of the 2026 CGBSE Exam Dates

Exam Period & Timing

The Class 12 exams are scheduled to begin on 20 February 2026 and will continue until 18 March 2026.  

The Class 10 board examinations will run from 21 February 2026 to 13 March 2026.  

All theory papers for both classes are set in a single morning shift, from 9:00 AM to 12:15 PM.  

Practical / Project Exams

For both Class 10 and Class 12, practical and project examinations will be held earlier, from 1 January to 20 January 2026.  

Self-study or private candidates will have their practicals conducted at designated exam centers.  

Subject-wise Schedule (Select Highlights)

Class 10

Class 12

Early Release of Timetable

Unlike in the past when CGBSE used to publish the board exam schedule late in the year, this time the board has announced the dates well in advance, giving students more breathing space for preparation. 

According to board officials, this decision aligns with a pro-student approach, allowing both students and schools to strategize their preparation and logistical arrangements.  

Exam Instructions for Students

Students appearing for the exams should make sure to download the official PDF from the CGBSE website to verify venue, subject codes, and reporting instructions.  

It’s mandatory to be seated by 9:00 AM, after which answer sheet distribution and question paper review will begin; writing starts around 9:15 AM.  

The board reserves the right to modify exam dates if required, so students should keep checking official communications.  

Even if a government holiday falls during the exam schedule, the board has clarified that the exams will proceed as planned.  

Why This Matters for Students

The early release of the timetable gives ample preparation time, which can greatly reduce stress and last-minute panic.

With practical exams in January, students can focus on theory later without worrying about immediate lab work.

The clear structure and advance notice help students plan revision cycles, peer study groups, and rest days more smartly.

Advice for Students and Guardians

Mark all exam dates in a calendar or planner—digital or physical—and set reminders.

Build a revision timetable that balances strong and weak subjects.

Take mock tests or past-year papers under timed conditions to simulate real exam pressure.

Liaise with school authorities or exam center heads to confirm practical exam schedules.

Sleep well, eat healthy, and don’t burn out—mental and physical wellness matters as much as academic prep.

Where to Find the Date Sheet

The authoritative source is the CGBSE website (cgbse.nic.in), where the board has published the official date sheet PDF.  

Multiple education portals (like The Indian Express and Jagran Josh) have also published subject-wise PDF links and printable versions.