CBSE Board Exams 2026: Registration for Private Candidates Begins, September 30 is the Last Date
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially opened the registration process for private candidates appearing in the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations in 2026. From September 9, 2025, eligible students can submit their examination forms online through the official CBSE website, cbse.gov.in. The last date for submission without late fees is September 30, 2025.
This announcement holds significance for thousands of students across the country who are not enrolled as regular candidates but still wish to sit for CBSE board exams.
The CBSE has clarified that the entire application process will be conducted only in online mode. No offline or manual submission will be accepted. Students are required to:
Visit the CBSE official website.
Register themselves as private candidates.
Fill in the application form with accurate details.
Pay the applicable examination fee online.
Download and save a copy of the submitted form for future reference.
To ensure a smooth registration process, CBSE has launched a dedicated helpline number 1800-11-8002. Students facing technical issues or doubts related to the form can call this number on working days between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM.
For students who are unable to register by the September 30 deadline, the board has provided an additional window. Private candidates will still be able to apply between October 3 and October 11, 2025, but with an added late fee.
Regular fee: ₹320
Late fee penalty: ₹2000
Total fee with late charges: ₹2320
Not all students can apply as private candidates. The board has issued clear eligibility guidelines. The following categories of students are permitted to register:
Students from the 2024–25 session who were declared “Essential Repeat” in the 2025 exams.
Students placed in compartment (main or supplementary) in the 2025 examination.
Candidates who were declared failed or Essential Repeat in any of the board exams from 2020 to 2025.
Students who have already passed in 2024–25 but want to improve their performance by reappearing in one or more subjects.
This year, CBSE has advanced the registration schedule for private candidates. The objective is to give students ample time to complete the formalities while also preparing academically. Early announcement also helps avoid last-minute pressure and ensures a more streamlined process.
Form submission begins: September 9, 2025
Last date without late fee: September 30, 2025
Registration with late fee: October 3–11, 2025
The CBSE private candidate registration is a vital opportunity for those who could not clear their exams earlier or who wish to enhance their academic performance. By offering early registration, an online application system, and a student helpline, the board aims to make the process convenient and transparent.
Students are advised to carefully check their eligibility, fill in details correctly, and complete the process before the deadline to avoid late fees. With exams just months away, timely registration ensures a smooth academic journey toward the CBSE Board Exams 2026.
