CBSE to Release Class 10 Phase 2 Admit Cards for 668,854 Students as Exam Dates Set

Key facts

• 668,854 students have registered for CBSE Class 10 phase 2 exams.
• 85,285 students are appearing for compartment exams.
• 525,655 students are taking improvement exams.
• 57,914 students are appearing for both compartment and improvement.
• Exams run from May 15 to June 1, 2026, in a single shift starting at 10:30 am.
• Admit cards are available for download on cbse.gov.in and cbseit.in.
• Schools can download admit cards using application number, previous roll number, or candidate name.
• 4,74,491 students will retake the Science exam; 3,68,843 will retake Mathematics (Standard); 1,78,878 will retake Mathematics (Basic).

Massive Registration for Second Chance Exams

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to release admit cards for the Class 10 phase 2 examinations, a process that will affect more than 668,000 students across India. The board introduced a two-phase exam system this year, allowing students to improve their scores by taking a second set of tests. According to official data, 85,285 students have registered for compartment exams, 525,655 for improvement, and 57,914 for both categories. The phase 2 exams are scheduled to run from May 15 to June 1, 2026, with a single shift beginning at 10:30 am. The board has emphasized that the higher of the two scores from phase 1 and phase 2 will be reflected in the final mark sheet. This policy aims to reduce the pressure on students while giving them a genuine opportunity to enhance their performance.

Admit Card Download Process for Schools

Schools have been instructed to download the admit cards for their students from the official CBSE websites: cbse.gov.in or cbseit.in. The process requires schools to log in via the 'Schools (Ganga)' portal, select 'Admit card for CBSE phase 2 exams 2026', and enter the candidate's application number, previous roll number, or name. The admit card is a mandatory document; students will not be allowed into the examination hall without it. The board has also released a direct link for schools to access the admit cards. With the exams starting next week, schools are urged to complete the download and distribute the hall tickets to students promptly. The CBSE has warned that any candidate without a valid admit card will be denied entry, regardless of circumstances.

Strict Guidelines for Exam Day Conduct

CBSE has issued a set of strict guidelines for students appearing in the phase 2 exams. to their exam centres before 10 am; no entry will be permitted after that time. Students are advised to plan their travel considering local weather and traffic conditions to ensure timely arrival. The dress code requires proper school uniform, and students must carry their school ID card along with the admit card. Only prescribed stationery items are allowed inside the exam hall. The possession of electronic devices, including mobile phones, is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, the board has warned candidates against spreading rumours or sharing exam-related materials on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, YouTube, or X (formerly Twitter). Violations could lead to disciplinary action, including cancellation of the exam.

Subject-Wise Breakdown of Reappearing Students

The data reveals significant numbers of students retaking specific subjects. A total of 474,491 students will reappear for the Science exam, while 368,843 will retake Mathematics (Standard) and 178,878 will retake Mathematics (Basic). These figures highlight the subjects where students most commonly seek improvement. The board's decision to offer a second chance reflects an understanding of the challenges students face in high-stakes examinations. The large number of registrations for improvement exams—over half a million—suggests that many students are aiming to boost their scores rather than simply passing. This trend aligns with the competitive nature of admissions to higher secondary schools and future academic opportunities.

Background: The Shift to a Two-Phase Exam System

This year marks the first time CBSE has conducted Class 10 board exams in two phases. The change was implemented to give students a second opportunity to improve their performance without waiting a full year. Under the new system, students who are dissatisfied with their phase 1 scores can opt for improvement exams in phase 2. The better of the two scores will be recorded on the final certificate. The reform has been welcomed by many educators and parents, who see it as a way to reduce exam-related stress. However, it also places additional logistical demands on schools and examination centres. The board has had to manage a larger number of candidates and ensure that the examination process remains fair and secure across both phases.

Outlook: What Comes Next for Students and Schools

With admit cards now being released, the immediate focus is on the smooth conduct of the exams from May 15. Schools are responsible for ensuring that students are well-informed about the guidelines and have their documents ready. After the exams, CBSE will release the results, likely within a few weeks. The final mark sheets will reflect the best scores from either phase. For students, the phase 2 exams represent a crucial opportunity to improve their academic records. The board's data indicates that a substantial number of students are taking advantage of this chance, particularly in science and mathematics. The results of this new system will be closely watched by educational policymakers and other boards considering similar reforms.

The bottom line

• CBSE's two-phase exam system allows students to improve scores, with the higher of the two counted.
• Over 668,000 students are registered for phase 2, including 525,655 for improvement and 85,285 for compartment exams.
• Admit cards are available for download by schools from cbse.gov.in or cbseit.in.
• Exams run from May 15 to June 1, with strict rules on timing, dress code, and prohibited items.
• Nearly 475,000 students will retake Science, and over 368,000 will retake Mathematics (Standard).
• The board warns against sharing exam materials on social media, with penalties for violations.