New Delhi: The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has officially released the timetable for the ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) Board Examinations 2026. As per the newly published schedule, both exams will commence in February 2026, making CISCE one of the first national boards to begin its annual examinations — earlier than the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
Key Dates and Schedule
According to the CISCE notification, the ICSE Class 10 Board Exams 2026 are expected to start from February 12, 2026, while the ISC Class 12 Board Exams will begin from February 5, 2026. The exams will continue until mid-April, depending on the subject combinations opted by the students. Each paper will begin at 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM, depending on the subject, and students will be provided 15 minutes of reading time before the start of writing.
The CISCE has also stated that practical exams and project assessments for both ICSE and ISC students will be conducted between November 2025 and January 2026, under the supervision of external examiners and school authorities.
Earlier Start Than CBSE
This year, CISCE’s schedule stands out as it begins its examinations before CBSE, which typically starts in mid-February or early March. Education analysts believe this move may help CISCE manage results and re-evaluation processes efficiently, ensuring timely admissions to universities across India and abroad.
Instructions For Students
Students appearing for the ICSE and ISC 2026 exams have been advised to thoroughly review the subject-wise timetable available on the official CISCE website (cisce.org). Schools have also been directed to display the datesheet on their notice boards and inform students about examination protocols, including reporting time, permitted materials, and uniform requirements.
CISCE has further emphasized that no change in examination dates will be entertained except in unavoidable circumstances. Students are urged to double-check the dates for subjects with multiple papers, such as Science, Mathematics, and Languages.
CISCE Advisory To Schools
In its circular, the board has reminded schools to submit internal assessment marks, project work, and practical reports within the stipulated deadlines. Any delays could affect the compilation of final results. Schools must also ensure strict adherence to examination centre regulations and maintain fair conduct throughout the assessment period.
Result and Evaluation Timeline
The evaluation process for ICSE and ISC exams is expected to begin immediately after the exams conclude in April 2026. Results are likely to be declared in May 2026, enabling students to apply for higher education programs without delay.
The CISCE has confirmed that results, mark sheets, and migration certificates will be available digitally on the DigiLocker platform as well as through the official website.
Conclusion
With the release of the official 2026 board exam timetable, students across India now have a clear roadmap for their final preparations. Experts recommend beginning focused revision early, following school-specific study schedules, and practicing previous years’ question papers to enhance performance.
Students and parents can download the complete ICSE and ISC 2026 timetable directly from the CISCE’s official website.
