The 2026 Exam Countdown Begins: CISCE Drops ICSE & ISC Timetables!

Well, students, the moment many of you have been waiting for – or perhaps, let’s be honest, slightly dreading – has finally arrived. The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, better known simply as CISCE, has done the deed, so to speak, unveiling the comprehensive timetables for the ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) examinations set for 2026. Yes, that's right; the dates are out, and it's officially time to get serious about your study plans.

For those tackling the ICSE (Class 10) papers, mark your calendars: the academic marathon kicks off on February 2, 2026. And, for a bit of good news, it mercifully wraps up just a month later, by March 3, 2026. Not too long a stretch, when you think about it, but every day will count, won’t it?

Then there are our ISC (Class 12) stalwarts; your journey also commences on February 2, 2026, but admittedly, it stretches a little longer. Your final theory paper will be sat by March 31, 2026. A whole month of intense focus, but then again, that’s Class 12 for you – the big league!

Before you even get to those daunting theory papers, especially for our ISC candidates, remember the practicals. These vital assessments are scheduled to run from January 15 through January 31, 2026. A good chunk of time, actually, to get those experiments just right or showcase your practical skills before diving into the written tests. And, hey, don't forget that crucial 15-minute reading time before each exam – a little mental breather, if you will, to digest what’s coming and plan your attack. It's a small detail, but in truth, it can make a big difference.

Now, what does this all mean for you? It means planning, meticulous planning. It means looking at your individual subject schedules, identifying any tricky back-to-back papers, and allocating your revision time wisely. This isn't just about memorising facts; it’s about strategic preparation, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and honestly, making peace with the fact that exam season is truly upon us. So, take a deep breath, understand the roadmap CISCE has laid out, and prepare to ace those exams. You’ve got this!