The CBSE and ICSE boards have officially released the academic calendar for the 2025–26 session, applicable to all affiliated schools across India. This comprehensive calendar outlines reopening dates, exam schedules, term breaks, and public holidays, providing students, teachers, and parents a clear roadmap for the new academic year.
The new session for most CBSE and ICSE schools will commence between 1 April and 15 April 2025, depending on the state. Schools in heatwave-affected zones have been advised to resume physical classes after summer vacation by the end of June. The CBSE board has stressed the importance of syllabus completion within the stipulated time while maintaining student wellness through activity-based learning.
Both boards have introduced minor tweaks in assessment timelines to accommodate regional climate and festival schedules.
Key Highlights of CBSE and ICSE Calendar 2025–26
Here is a summary of the important academic events as per the new calendar:
| Event | CBSE Dates | ICSE Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Session Start | 1–15 April 2025 | 1–15 April 2025 |
| Summer Vacation | Mid-May to Mid-June | Mid-May to End-June |
| Half-Yearly Exams | 15–30 September 2025 | 10–25 September 2025 |
| Dussehra Break | 1–8 October 2025 | 2–10 October 2025 |
| Winter Break | 24 Dec 2025 – 2 Jan 2026 | 22 Dec – 2 Jan 2026 |
| Pre-Board Exams (Class 10/12) | 10–25 January 2026 | 5–20 January 2026 |
| Final Exams (All Classes) | March 2026 | February–March 2026 |
The CBSE calendar gives individual schools flexibility to slightly shift non-board class exams to better align with state festivals or weather conditions, but board exam dates will remain fixed.
Public Holidays and Working Days
The academic calendar also outlines a monthly breakdown of working days and holidays, helping school administrations better plan classroom schedules. On average, there will be 22 working days per month with allowances for national holidays like Independence Day, Republic Day, and Gandhi Jayanti.
The CBSE and ICSE boards have recommended no teaching on second Saturdays, maintaining a healthy mix of instruction and break for students. States may adjust holidays based on local customs, but must seek approval from their regional offices.
New Additions to the 2025–26 Session
The academic year brings several fresh initiatives under CBSE and ICSE guidelines:
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CBSE is expanding activity-based learning and coding programs for Class 6 and above.
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ICSE has introduced regional language electives from Class 9.
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Schools will be monitored for implementation of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommendations.
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Both boards are encouraging the use of AI-driven assessments and digital tools in classrooms.
The 2025–26 calendar is structured to reduce exam stress and enhance student participation in extracurriculars through integrated skill-building modules.
Expectations from Schools and Teachers
Schools must strictly adhere to the CBSE and ICSE timelines for assessments and syllabus completion. Internal assessments will be closely monitored, and teachers are advised to submit performance reports regularly to regional board offices.
Workshops for teachers will be conducted between July and August 2025 to train them in updated pedagogical practices, assessment patterns, and digital teaching tools.
The boards also emphasized the importance of inclusive education, asking schools to ensure participation of children with disabilities, and implement health and safety norms throughout the session.
Parental Guidelines for the New Academic Year
Parents are advised to:
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Ensure that students attend classes regularly from day one of the session.
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Monitor progress through parent-teacher meetings scheduled every term.
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Encourage children to balance academics with physical activity and hobbies.
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Stay updated with notifications from school websites and official CBSE/ICSE portals.
FAQs
When does the 2025–26 CBSE academic session begin?
The CBSE session begins between 1 April and 15 April 2025, depending on the school’s location and local directives.
Are there any changes in the exam pattern this year?
Both CBSE and ICSE have introduced updated assessment formats focusing on practical, skill-based, and NEP-aligned evaluations.
Will holidays vary by state?
Yes, while the main holidays are standard, additional state-level holidays may apply based on regional customs.
When are the pre-board exams for Class 10 and 12 scheduled?
Pre-board exams will be held between 10–25 January 2026 for CBSE and 5–20 January 2026 for ICSE schools.
Is this calendar applicable to private and public schools alike?
Yes, all CBSE- and ICSE-affiliated schools—whether private or public—are required to follow this academic calendar.
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