CBSE Board Exams 2026: Schools Must Submit Candidate Lists by September 30

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is one of India’s most trusted education boards. Every year, millions of students appear for Class 10 and Class 12 board exams. To make the system smoother, CBSE has announced new guidelines for the 2026 board exams.

The most important rule is that schools must submit the List of Candidates (LOC) for board exams by September 30, 2025. Without this list, students will not be able to appear for the exams.

This blog will explain everything in very simple words—what the new rules are, why they matter, what schools need to do, what students and parents should know, and how to avoid mistakes.

What is the List of Candidates (LOC)?

Before we go further, let’s understand what LOC means.

• LOC is a list prepared by schools with details of all students who will appear for CBSE board exams.
• It includes name, date of birth, parent’s name, subjects chosen, category (like General, SC, ST, OBC), and APAAR ID.
• CBSE uses this list to issue admit cards, exam center details, mark sheets, and certificates.
• In simple words, the LOC is like the entry ticket for the board exams. If a student’s name is not in the LOC, they cannot write the exam.

What Are the New Guidelines for CBSE 2026 Exams?

CBSE has introduced some important changes for 2026:

1.Two Exams for Class 10

• All Class 10 students will write a compulsory board exam in February 2026.
• They can also take an optional second attempt in May 2026 to improve their marks.
• This gives students a fair chance to perform better.

2.Deadline for LOC Submission

• Schools must submit the LOC by September 30, 2025.
• Late submissions will be allowed only till October 11, 2025, and only with extra late fees.

3.APAAR ID is Compulsory

• APAAR stands for Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry.
• It is like an Aadhaar card for education. Every student must have it, except those studying in CBSE schools outside India.

4.CWSN (Children With Special Needs) Data

• Schools must upload correct details of students with special needs.
• This ensures they get the facilities (like extra time, scribes, or exemption in certain subjects).

5.Data Correction Window

• After submitting LOC, CBSE will give a short time to correct small mistakes.
• But only changes with proper documents will be allowed.

Why Are These Guidelines Important?

The new rules may look strict, but they are very important. Here’s why:

• To Avoid Mistakes: If the student’s name or date of birth is wrong, it will affect their certificates later.
• To Ensure Fairness: With APAAR ID, every student is uniquely identified. This avoids duplication or fraud.
• To Give Students More Chances: The two-exam system for Class 10 reduces stress. Students can try again if they are unhappy with their first score.
• To Support Special Needs Students: By uploading CWSN details on time, students get the help they deserve during exams.

Step-by-Step Process for Schools

Schools have the biggest responsibility. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1.Check Student Records

• Verify names, date of birth, and parent’s names with admission records.
• Make sure spellings are correct.

2.Collect APAAR IDs

• Help students register and generate APAAR IDs if they don’t have one.

3.Check Subject Combinations

• Ensure students have chosen subjects that follow CBSE’s rules.
• For example, mixing Science, Arts, or Commerce subjects is possible, but must be within CBSE’s guidelines.

4.Fill the LOC Online

• Submit all details on CBSE’s online portal.
• Double-check before final submission.

5.Pay the Fees

• Fees must be paid online.
• Late fees will apply after September 30.

6.Download and Save Proof

• Schools must download the acknowledgement slip and keep it safe.

Checklist for Schools

✅ Verify names, DOB, and subject choices
✅ Collect APAAR IDs
✅ Upload CWSN details
✅ Submit by September 30, 2025
✅ Pay fees digitally
✅ Keep acknowledgement slip safe

What Students Should Do

Even though schools handle the LOC process, students must also stay alert:

• Check your details before your school submits them.
• Ensure your APAAR ID is ready.
• Confirm your subject choices are correct.
• Save copies of important documents like Aadhaar, birth certificate, and school ID.

What Parents Should Do

Parents also play an important role:

• Verify your child’s details carefully.
• Attend the information meetings conducted by schools.
• Ask for a printed copy of the final LOC to double-check.
• Guide your child about the new two-exam policy for Class 10.

Tips for Students to Prepare for Two Exams

• Treat the February exam seriously—it is compulsory.
• If you are not happy with your marks, use the May exam as a second chance.
• Don’t wait for the second exam to prepare properly.
• Think of it like a cricket match—you have two innings to score well.

How Parents Can Reduce Exam Stress

• Avoid comparing your child with others.
• Encourage them to do their best in February, but remind them that May is also an option.
• Focus on health, sleep, and emotional support.
• Celebrate effort, not just marks.

The CBSE guidelines for 2026 are designed to make the exam system fairer, smoother, and more inclusive. Yes, schools have more responsibility, but students and parents must also stay alert.

By working together, everyone can ensure that no child faces last-minute problems. The key is timely submission, careful checking, and proper communication.

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