The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Class 10 and 12 board examinations for 2025 officially commenced on Saturday, February 15, marking the start of a crucial academic milestone for over 44 lakh students across India and abroad. With more than 8,000 schools participating, the exams are being conducted at 7,842 centres in India and 26 international locations. The first day saw Class 10 students appearing for the English (Communicative) and English (Language and Literature) papers, while Class 12 students took the Entrepreneurship exam.

Exam Schedule and Guidelines
The CBSE board exams are being held from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, with strict adherence to guidelines to ensure fairness and integrity. Regular students are required to wear their school uniforms, while private candidates must opt for light-coloured clothing. Students are advised to arrive at their respective exam centres at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to complete the necessary formalities. They are also encouraged to carefully read the instructions on the question paper before beginning their answers.
To maintain the sanctity of the examinations, CBSE has prohibited several items inside the exam halls. These include mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches, cameras, unauthorized study materials, wallets, handbags, goggles, and pouches. Food and drinks are also not allowed, except for diabetic students who have obtained prior approval from the board.
Admit Cards and Identification
Admit cards for the exams have been issued through the Pariksha Sangam Portal. Regular students must carry their admit cards along with their school ID cards, while private candidates are required to present a government-issued photo ID for verification. The board has emphasized the importance of carrying these documents to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Preparations and Webcast for Officials
In preparation for the smooth conduct of the exams, CBSE held a live webcast on Friday, February 14, at 2:30 PM on its official YouTube channel. The webcast provided detailed guidelines on exam conduct and evaluation procedures for centre superintendents and other officials. This initiative aimed to ensure that all stakeholders are well-informed and prepared to handle the examination process efficiently.
Exam Duration and Conclusion
The Class 10 board exams will continue until March 18, 2025, while the Class 12 exams are scheduled to conclude on April 4, 2025. The extended duration of the examination period allows students ample time to prepare for each subject and perform to the best of their abilities.
Special Measures by Delhi Metro
With the increased student commute on examination days, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced special facilitation measures in collaboration with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Students appearing for the CBSE board exams will be given priority during frisking and ticketing at metro stations. Additional staff will be deployed during peak hours to assist students and ensure a smooth and stress-free commute.
Addressing Societal Pressure
In a related development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed students during the annual Pariksha pe Charcha event, where he spoke about societal pressure, failure, and the importance of self-reflection. His motivational words aimed to ease the stress and anxiety often associated with board exams, encouraging students to focus on their efforts rather than the outcome.
Key Takeaways for Students
As the CBSE board exams 2025 progress, students are reminded to stay calm, focused, and well-prepared. Here are some key tips for success:
- Time Management: Allocate sufficient time for each section of the question paper.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Ensure you understand the question paper format and marking scheme.
- Avoid Prohibited Items: Double-check your belongings to avoid carrying banned items into the exam hall.
- Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet and get adequate rest to stay physically and mentally fit.
- Utilize Metro Facilities: Take advantage of the special measures provided by the Delhi Metro for a hassle-free commute.
Conclusion
The commencement of the CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams 2025 marks a significant moment for millions of students across the country. With meticulous planning and strict guidelines in place, CBSE aims to ensure a fair and transparent examination process. As students embark on this academic journey, they are encouraged to give their best while staying calm and confident. The support from institutions like the Delhi Metro and the motivational guidance from leaders like PM Modi further underscore the collective effort to make this examination period a success. Here’s wishing all students the very best for their exams!