For millions of Classes 10 and 12 students and their schools, the new academic year just got more real CBSE has sounded a firm reminder. Schools must now submit the List of Candidates (LOC) for the 2026 board exams by September 30, 2025.

This isn’t simply admin jargon mistakes or delays could mean students miss their board exams entirely. With the introduction of a two-board Exam policy for Class 10, it's even more critical. While the first mandatory exam lands in mid-February, an optional second one gives students a chance to improve their scores in May.

CBSE is also rolling out newer safeguards: schools must include APAAR IDs a unique academic identifier and generate a data verification slip that allows corrections between October 13 and 27. This makes sure every name, birthdate, subject code, and photo is accurate before final submission. Importantly, the process also includes dedicated provisions for Children with Special Needs (CWSN), with tailored systems and deadlines to accommodate them.

This isn’t just bureaucratic red tape it’s about fairness. When data is precise and timely, it's not just schools that benefit students do too. They earn their right to sit for exams, get accurate admit cards, and eventually legitimate certificates. Given the added flexibility this year, the key message is simple: act with accuracy, act with timeliness.