September 13, 2025
Delhi, India
As preparations for the CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams 2026 gain momentum, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a crucial schedule for submitting the List of Candidates (LOC). In a significant move, the board has provided partial relaxation on the mandatory APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) requirement, addressing widespread challenges faced by schools. This relief comes alongside the activation of an online module for examination exemptions for Children With Special Needs (CWSN). With deadlines approaching fast, this update ensures smoother processes for affiliated schools and private candidates, minimizing disruptions in exam registrations.
Key Points:
- LOC submission is essential for student eligibility in February-March 2026 exams.
- APAAR ID relaxation allows marking “REFUSED” or “NOGEN” in cases of consent denial or technical issues.
- Online portal now live for CWSN exemptions, promoting inclusivity.
- Applies to both regular and private candidates; no extensions beyond specified dates.
What is LOC Submission? Understanding the Process
The List of Candidates (LOC) is a critical document where schools upload student details, including names, subjects, and identifiers like APAAR ID, to register for board exams. For 2026, CBSE has introduced reforms like a two-board exam option for Class 10 (first in February, second in May) and mandatory data verification. However, initial mandates for APAAR IDs – unique lifelong identifiers linking academic records – faced hurdles, prompting the recent relaxation. This ensures accurate, error-free submissions while accommodating real-world challenges, ultimately benefiting students’ exam eligibility and result processing.
Key Points:
- LOC includes student data verification slips for accuracy.
- APAAR ID links to DigiLocker for seamless record access.
- Schools must assign qualified teachers for evaluations during submission.
- Errors in LOC can lead to students being barred from exams or withheld results.
APAAR ID Relaxation: Addressing School Challenges
CBSE’s partial relief on APAAR ID stems from representations highlighting issues like portal integration glitches, Aadhaar data mismatches, correction delays, and parental consent refusals. Previously mandatory for Indian schools (exempt for overseas ones), APAAR IDs are now flexible: Schools can submit LOC without them by using specific codes. This change, effective for the 2025-26 session, prevents submission delays and ensures all eligible students can proceed. Overseas schools remain exempt due to administrative and legal reasons.
Key Points:
- Mark “REFUSED” for parental consent denial; retain refusal copies.
- Use “NOGEN” for technical/administrative issues like data mismatches.
- Indicate full APAAR ID wherever possible to maintain digital integration.
- Relaxation announced on September 11, 2025, via official circular.
Critical Dates for LOC Submission: Don’t Miss the Deadlines
CBSE has outlined a strict timeline for LOC activities, closing portals at 11:59 PM on final dates. The schedule covers regular school submissions, late fees, and private candidate forms. For Class 10, the first exam’s LOC must be submitted early to enable the two-exam policy. Private candidates have dedicated windows, but all must adhere to avoid penalties like late fees or ineligibility.
Key Points:
- Class X (First Exam) & Class XII LOC Without Late Fee: Up to September 30, 2025.
- Class X (First Exam) & Class XII LOC With Late Fee: October 1 to October 11, 2025.
- Private Candidates Class X & XII Forms (Without Late Fee): September 9 to September 30, 2025.
- Private Candidates Forms (With Late Fee): October 1 to October 11, 2025.
- CWSN Exemption Module Activation: September 3, 2025 (ongoing until deadlines).
- Portal reopens for late fees on October 3, 2025; no further extensions.
Support for CWSN Candidates: Online Module for Exemptions
To promote inclusivity, CBSE has launched an online web module for schools to request exam-related exemptions and facilities for Children With Special Needs (CWSN). This automated system ensures timely approvals for accommodations like extra time, scribes, or subject relaxations, based on medical certificates. Schools must upload details before LOC finalization to avoid last-minute issues. This initiative aligns with CBSE’s commitment to equitable education, with user manuals available for guidance.
Key Points:
- Module live from September 3, 2025; submit requests via cbse.gov.in.
- Required documents: Medical certificates, disability proofs, and school endorsements.
- Automated processing; late submissions not accepted post-LOC deadlines.
- Covers facilities like writer assistance, extra time, or alternative question formats.
Guidelines for Schools: Ensuring Smooth Submission
CBSE emphasizes accuracy in LOC uploads, including valid photos, correct subject codes, and teacher assignments (Grades 9-12 qualified). For APAAR issues, follow the relaxation codes strictly. Private candidates must use the dedicated portal, selecting categories like Fresh, Improvement, or Compartment. Schools facing hurdles should contact regional offices immediately. This structured approach, part of NEP 2020 reforms, modernizes processes while holding schools accountable.
Key Points:
- Verify student details: Names, DOB, subjects, and categories meticulously.
- For private candidates: Upload previous marksheets and ID proofs.
- Fees: Vary by class and lateness; pay online via integrated system.
- Contact: Regional CBSE offices for technical support; helpline 1800-11-8002.
Implications for Students and Schools: Why This Matters
This relaxation and schedule update reduce administrative burdens, allowing focus on teaching and preparation. For students, it secures exam spots without ID-related barriers, especially vital for drop-year or CWSN candidates aiming for JEE/NEET. Schools benefit from clearer guidelines, minimizing penalties. Overall, it reflects CBSE’s adaptive approach to digital integration challenges, fostering a more inclusive exam ecosystem for 2026.
Key Points:
- Prevents exam disqualifications due to ID issues.
- Supports NEP goals of digital accountability and student welfare.
- Encourages early preparation; monitor cbse.gov.in for reminders.
- Broader impact: Enhances data accuracy for future admissions and records.
