CBSE Mid-Term Exam Dates 2025-26: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) conducts mid-term or half-yearly exams every year for Classes 9, 10, 11, and 12 across its affiliated schools. For the academic session 2025-26, the CBSE Mid-Term Exams are scheduled to take place between September 15 and September 30, 2025. These exams hold immense importance as they test the syllabus completed in the first half of the year and serve as a foundation for preparing for the final board exams.
In this detailed guide, we will cover the CBSE mid-term date sheet 2025-26, exam timings, class-wise details, and preparation tips to help students perform their best.
CBSE Mid-Term Exam Dates 2025-26
The mid-term exams are usually scheduled in the month of September to cover the syllabus completed during the first half of the academic year. For 2025-26:
- Start Date: 15 September 2025
- End Date: 29 or 30 September 2025
- Holiday Consideration: Most schools wrap up the exams before Dussehra holidays, giving students a short break afterward.
- School-specific Date Sheets: While CBSE gives a standard schedule guideline, each school releases its own official date sheet. For example, Delhi Public School (DPS), New Delhi, has announced exams between 15–29 September 2025.
Students must check their respective school circulars or online portals for the exact timetable.
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CBSE Mid-Term Exam Timings
- Duration: Each paper will be of 3 hours.
- Reading Time: Students get 15 extra minutes to read the question paper before writing begins.
- Morning Session: Most schools conduct exams from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, but timings may vary.
Importance of CBSE Mid-Term Exams
Mid-term exams are not just routine tests; they serve as stepping stones toward final board preparations. Here’s why they matter:
- Assessment of Progress – Students can measure how much they’ve understood from the syllabus taught so far.
- Identification of Weak Areas – Highlights subjects or chapters that need more revision before annual exams.
- Boosts Confidence – Scoring well motivates students for upcoming board exams.
- Improves Time Management – Practicing 3-hour exam patterns enhances speed and accuracy.
- Preparatory Stage for Boards – Builds exam temperament and reduces stress before board exams.
Preparation Tips for CBSE Mid-Term Exams 2025-26
Performing well in the half-yearly exams requires smart planning. Here are some effective preparation tips:
1. Know the Syllabus & Exam Pattern
- Go through the official CBSE syllabus 2025-26.
- Highlight chapters covered till August to focus only on the relevant topics.
2. Solve Sample Papers & Previous Year Papers
- Download CBSE sample papers 2025-26 for Classes 9–12.
- Practice at least one paper daily under timed conditions.
3. Prioritize NCERT Textbooks
- NCERT books form the core material for CBSE exams.
- Focus on diagrams, definitions, formulas, and case studies provided in the textbooks.
4. Create a Study Schedule
- Divide your day into revision slots for each subject.
- Keep difficult subjects in the morning when concentration is high.
5. Make Short Notes
- Prepare mind maps, flowcharts, and flashcards for quick revisions.
- Write down important formulas and case studies.
6. Practice Time Management
- Attempt mock exams in 3 hours to simulate the actual exam environment.
- Use the 15-minute reading time wisely to plan answers.
7. Stay Consistent & Healthy
- Avoid last-minute cramming; revise daily.
- Take adequate breaks, sleep well, and eat balanced meals for better concentration.
Conclusion
The CBSE Mid-Term Exams 2025-26 will be held from September 15 to 30, 2025 for Classes 9 to 12. These exams are more than just a routine assessment, they are crucial checkpoints in every student’s academic journey. By identifying weak areas, practicing sample papers, and following a structured preparation strategy, students can not only perform well in mid-term exams but also gain the confidence required for final board exams.
With consistent efforts, proper time management, and regular revisions, students can secure excellent scores and step into the next phase of the academic year with confidence.
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FAQs
1. When will the CBSE Mid-Term Exams 2025-26 start and end?
The exams are scheduled from 15 September to 30 September 2025 for Classes 9 to 12.
2. What is the duration of each CBSE Mid-Term Exam?
Each paper is 3 hours long, with an additional 15 minutes reading time before starting.
3. Do all CBSE schools follow the same mid-term date sheet?
No, CBSE provides a guideline schedule, but schools may release their own official date sheets. Students should check their school’s circular.
4. Which subjects and chapters are included in the mid-term exams?
The exams cover the syllabus taught during the first half of the academic year as per the CBSE 2025-26 syllabus.
5. Are NCERT textbooks enough for preparing for mid-term exams?
Yes, NCERT textbooks are the primary study material, including diagrams, definitions, formulas, and case studies.
6. How can students prepare effectively for CBSE Mid-Term Exams 2025-26?
Students should follow a study schedule, solve sample papers, revise daily, and practice time management.
7. Can students use previous year question papers for preparation?
Absolutely. Solving previous year papers and sample papers helps students understand exam patterns and manage time efficiently.
8. Do CBSE Mid-Term Exams affect final board results?
Mid-term exams are formative assessments. While they don’t directly affect board marks, they help identify weak areas and build confidence for final exams.
