CBSE 2026 LOC Deadlines Released

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has rolled out critical guidelines and deadlines for submitting the List of Candidates (LOC) for the 2026 Class 10 and 12 board exams. This announcement is vital for schools and students to ensure smooth registration and avoid last-minute hurdles.

Understanding the LOC Submission Process

The LOC is a mandatory step where schools register students for the upcoming board exams. CBSE's new guidelines emphasize accuracy to prevent errors that could disrupt the examination process. This includes provisions for regular and private candidates, as well as exemptions for Children with Special Needs (CWSN).

A notable update is the relaxation on APAAR ID requirements. Schools can now mark 'REFUSED' for students whose parents have denied sharing the ID (with proof) or 'NOGEN' if generation is not possible. For assistance, contact regional CBSE offices promptly.

Important Deadlines You Need to Know

All deadlines end at 11:59 PM, and schools must adhere strictly to avoid penalties. Here's a breakdown:

LOC Submission (Non-Challan Mode): Without late fee: August 29 to September 30, 2025; With late fee: October 3 to 11, 2025.

LOC Submission (Challan Mode): Without late fee: August 29 to September 22, 2025; No late fee option available.

CWSN Exemptions: Without late fee: September 9 to October 3, 2025; With late fee: October 8, 2025.

Private Candidates (Class 10/12): Without late fee: September 9 to September 30, 2025; With late fee: October 3 to 11, 2025.

These timelines help streamline preparations for the 2026 exams, ensuring every eligible student is included.

Tips for Schools and Students

Schools are urged to double-check all submissions for completeness. Errors in LOC can lead to complications during exam season, so early verification is key. Students should coordinate with their institutions to confirm registration status and provide necessary documents like APAAR IDs where applicable.

This proactive approach by CBSE aims to make the registration process more inclusive and efficient.

Impact on the Education Landscape

With board exams being a cornerstone of Indian education, these deadlines underscore CBSE's commitment to organized and fair assessments. By addressing issues like APAAR integration early, the board is adapting to modern requirements while supporting diverse student needs.

Keep an eye on the official CBSE website for any updates or clarifications.