PSEB Date Sheet 2026 Released: Check Class 5, 8, 10 & 12 Exam Schedule

The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has officially released the complete date sheet for the Class 5, 8, 10, and 12 Board Exams 2026. With schools reopening after an extended winter break, the board has fast-tracked the process to ensure students have enough time to prepare before the harvest season kicks in.

According to the new schedule released on December 30, 2025, the board exams will begin as early as February 17, 2026 for Classes 8 and 12. In a major shift this year, the board has also decided to conduct practical exams before the written papers for many students.

Here is the complete breakdown of the exam dates, the new paper pattern, and how you can download the official PDF from pseb.ac.in.

PSEB Board Exam 2026: The Complete Schedule

The board has released specific timelines for all four classes. Unlike previous years, the schedule is packed tightly to finish exams by early April.

1. Class 12 (Senior Secondary) Schedule

• Start Date: February 17, 2026
• End Date: April 4, 2026
• Timing: 11:00 AM to 2:15 PM
• Key Focus: The exams begin with streams like Home Science. Major papers like English are scheduled for March 7, while Economics is on February 25.

2. Class 10 (Matriculation) Schedule

• Start Date: March 6, 2026
• End Date: April 1, 2026
• Timing: 11:00 AM to 2:15 PM
• First Major Paper: The exams kick off with Social Science on March 6.

3. Class 8 and Class 5 Schedule

• Class 8 Exams: February 17 to February 27, 2026 (Timing: 11:00 AM to 2:15 PM).
• Class 5 Exams: March 6 to March 12, 2026 (Timing: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM).
• Note: Class 5 exams are held in the morning shift to avoid the afternoon heat for younger children.

Major Update: Practical Exams Moved “Ahead”

In a significant change for 2026, the PSEB has announced that Practical Exams for Classes 10 and 12 will be conducted before the theory exams.

• Practical Dates: February 2 to February 12, 2026.
• Why this matters: Previously, practicals were often held after the written exams. This year, you must be ready with your files and projects by January end.
• Note: Ensure you confirm your specific batch date with your school principal, as schools schedule these internally within the board’s window.

Important Rules for 2026

To ensure a smooth examination process, PSEB has issued strict guidelines:

1. Entry Time: Students must reach the exam center at least 30 minutes before the start time.
2. Reading Time: An extra 15 minutes (included in the timing) is given specifically to read the question paper. You cannot write answers during this time.
3. Differently Abled Candidates: Visually impaired or differently-abled students will get separate question papers and an extra 20 minutes per hour to complete the exam.

How to Download PSEB Date Sheet 2026 PDF?

If you haven’t saved the official date sheet yet, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Website: Go to the official site pseb.ac.in.
2. Find the Link: Look for the “Important Links” or “News Press Release” section on the homepage.
3. Select Class: Click on “Date Sheet for Matriculation / Senior Secondary Exam March 2026.”
4. Download: The PDF will open. Save it to your phone and take a printout to paste near your study table.

When Will Admit Cards Be Released?

The PSEB Admit Cards (Roll Numbers) for 2026 are expected to be released by the first week of February 2026.

• Regular Students: You will get your physical admit card directly from your school.
• Private/Open Students: You will be able to download it online using your name and father’s name from the official portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)