CISCE Releases Detailed Time Tables for ICSE Class 10 and ISC Class 12 Board Exams 2026
The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has officially released the 2026 board examination timetables for ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) students. The announcement was made on November 13, bringing clarity and early preparation time for lakhs of students across the country.
This year, the council expects about 2.6 lakh students to appear for the ICSE Class 10 examination and nearly 1.5 lakh candidates for the ISC Class 12 examination.
Earlier Start Compared to 2025
The 2026 board exams are set to begin slightly earlier than last year.
In 2025, ICSE exams started on February 18, while ISC exams began on February 13.
For 2026, the ISC Class 12 examinations will commence on February 12, and the ICSE Class 10 examinations will start on February 17.
This shift allows the Council to streamline evaluation timelines and ensure timely publication of results ahead of the new academic year.
Complete Examination Window
ICSE (Class 10)
Starts: February 17, 2026
Ends: March 30, 2026
Total Subjects: 75 Students will appear for a wide range of subjects, ranging from core disciplines like English, Mathematics and Science to elective subjects including Modern Foreign Languages, Commercial Studies, and Arts.
ISC (Class 12)
Starts: February 12, 2026
Ends: April 6, 2026
Total Subjects: 50 The Class 12 timetable covers Science, Commerce and Humanities streams, along with vocational and elective choices reflecting changing academic trends.
Smooth Transition and Ample Preparation Time
The release of the datesheets nearly three months before the examinations gives schools, students and teachers adequate time for revision planning. Many institutions across the country are expected to adjust pre-board schedules and revision tests accordingly.
Students and parents are advised to cross-check the official timetable available on the CISCE website, as each examination will begin at a scheduled time with specific instructions regarding duration and reading time.
Additional Context
In a related feature, several ICSE and ISC alumni recently recalled their school days, sharing memories of knitting sweaters and socks for soldiers during the Indo-Pak and Indo-China wars, a testament to the councilâs long-standing culture of discipline, service and community involvement.
