CBSE Announces Practical Exam Dates for Winter-Bound Schools

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the schedule for practical exams and internal assessments for Class X and XII students in winter-bound schools. These practical exams will take place from November 5 to December 5, 2024. This timing is specifically chosen because schools in regions experiencing severe winter conditions will remain closed in January due to extreme cold weather.

According to the official notification, the internal assessments for all other schools will commence on January 1, 2025. The board has clarified that the practical exams, projects, and internal assessments for the 2024-25 academic session are set to begin on the same date for all affiliated schools across India and abroad, except for those in winter-bound areas.

Key Dates and Guidelines:

• Practical Exams for Winter-Bound Schools: November 5 to December 5, 2024
• Internal Exams for All Other Schools: January 1, 2025

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Guidelines:

CBSE has issued comprehensive SOPs and guidelines for schools conducting the practical exams, which include:

1. Conduct of Exams: Practical exams/project/internal assessments for winter-bound schools will be held from November 5 to December 5, 2024.
2. Marks Uploading: Schools must upload students’ marks simultaneously from the start date of the practical exams, ensuring completion by the final date of the exams. An error-free process is mandatory, involving the school principal, an internal examiner, and an external examiner. No corrections to uploaded marks will be allowed later.
3. Exam Sessions: Exams should be conducted in two or three sessions, depending on the available lab infrastructure at the school.
4. Unfair Practices: Any student found practicing unfair means or attempting to communicate with examiners must be reported. Schools failing to adhere to the rules may have their exams canceled.
5. Payment Procedures: Staff payment during the exam must be conducted through integrated payment systems only.
6. Confidentiality of Marks: Marks obtained will not be disclosed under any circumstances.

These measures are aimed at maintaining the integrity of the examination process while ensuring that students in winter-bound areas can complete their assessments before schools close for the season.