The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has officially started the countdown for the Class 12 board exams. If you are a student appearing for the Higher Secondary (HS) examination this year, there is a lot of new information you need to know. The council has just released the admit cards and model question papers for the 2026 exams.
For the first time, the state is conducting the exams under a full semester system for regular students (Semester 4), while repeaters will follow the Old Annual System. The exams are set to begin on February 12, 2026.
This article covers everything you need to know about the WBCHSE HS 2026 exams, including how to get your admit card, the full exam schedule, and new timing rules.
WBCHSE Admit Card 2026: Released and Ready
The most urgent update is regarding the WBCHSE Admit Card 2026. The council released the admit cards on January 28, 2026. However, unlike some other boards, students cannot download these directly from the website.
Schools have been given access to download and print the hall tickets from the official portal. As a student, you must visit your school to collect the physical copy of your admit card. When you receive it, check your name, roll number, and subject details carefully. If there is any spelling mistake, inform your school principal immediately so it can be fixed before the first exam.
Read more: GATE 2026 Admit Card
WBCHSE HS Routine 2026 (Semester 4 & Old System)
The exams for both regular students (Semester 4) and old syllabus students will run from February 12 to February 27, 2026.
The routine is designed to give students gaps between major subjects. Here is the schedule for the compulsory subjects:
- February 12 (Thursday): Bengali (A), English (A), Hindi (A), and other first languages.
- February 13 (Friday): English (B), Bengali (B), and other second languages.
- February 17 (Tuesday): Physics, Nutrition, Education, Accountancy.
- February 19 (Thursday): Mathematics, History, Psychology.
- February 20 (Friday): Biological Science, Political Science, Business Studies.
- February 23 (Monday): Chemistry, Geography, Economics.
- February 27 (Friday): Computer Science, Sociology, and remaining subjects.
Note: Please verify your specific subject dates from the official routine printed on your admit card.
New Exam Timings and Reporting Rules
The WBCHSE has changed the game slightly this year with strict timing rules.
For Semester 4 (Regular Students):
- Exam Time: 10:00 AM to 1:15 PM.
- Reporting Time: You must reach the exam center by 9:00 AM.
- Paper Distribution: Question papers will be handed out at 9:50 AM to give you 10 minutes for reading.
For Semester 3 Supplementary (Repeaters):
- Exam Time: 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM (depending on the subject).
- Reporting Time: You need to report by 12:30 PM.
Strict action will be taken against latecomers, so aim to reach the center at least 30 minutes before your reporting time.
Model Question Papers Distributed
To help students prepare better, the council started distributing Model Question Papers from January 27, 2026. These papers cover 22 subjects and are available at the council’s head office and regional centers. Schools collect these to help students understand the new question pattern, especially for the Semester 4 format which focuses more on descriptive answers compared to the multiple-choice questions (MCQs) of previous semesters.
What to Carry to the Exam Hall?
- Original Admit Card: You will not be allowed inside without it.
- Registration Certificate: Keep this safe with your admit card.
- Stationery: Blue and black pens, pencils, eraser, and a clear scale.
- Water Bottle: A transparent water bottle is usually allowed.
- NO Electronics: Smartwatches, mobile phones, and Bluetooth devices are strictly banned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I download my WBCHSE admit card online?
No, students cannot download it personally. You must collect the signed and stamped admit card from your school authorities.
2. When does the WB HS Exam 2026 start?
The Higher Secondary exams start on February 12, 2026, and end on February 27, 2026.
3. What is the exam time for Semester 4 students?
The exam takes place from 10:00 AM to 1:15 PM. You get the question paper at 9:50 AM for reading.
4. Is the 2026 exam based on the semester system?
Yes, for the current batch of Class 12 students, this is the Semester 4 examination. However, students from previous years who are repeating will follow the Old Annual System.
5. Where can I find the official routine?
You can view and download the official notifications and routine from the board’s website: wbchse.wb.gov.in.