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CBSE Board Exams 2026: What You Can and Cannot Carry Into the Exam Hall
As CBSE board exams approach, confusion over calculators, maps, and graph paper remains common among students. Here’s a clear guide to what is allowed — and strictly prohibited — inside the exam hall.
With CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams around the corner, students are busy revising formulas, diagrams, and case studies. Yet, many still remain unsure about one crucial aspect — what tools are actually allowed inside the exam hall. Small misunderstandings about calculators, graph sheets, or maps can lead to unnecessary stress, loss of marks, or even disciplinary issues.
Under CBSE guidelines, calculators — including scientific ones — are strictly prohibited for most subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Accountancy. Only students with approved benchmark disabilities or specific vocational subjects (with prior CBSE permission) may use them. Manual calculation remains mandatory for the majority of candidates.
Students are allowed to carry basic geometry tools like a transparent ruler, compass, divider, protractor, pencil, eraser, and sharpener. However, no electronic devices, programmable tools, or mathematical tables (unless printed in the question paper) are permitted.
For Geography map work, CBSE provides the required outline maps along with the question paper. Students must not bring atlases or printed maps from home. Similarly, graph paper is supplied by the exam centre when needed in subjects like Mathematics, Economics, or Physics. Students should not carry their own graph sheets.
Presentation also plays a key role in scoring well. Diagrams and graphs must be drawn in pencil, while answers should be written in blue or royal blue ink. Correction fluid is not allowed, and supplementary sheets must be properly attached. Clear labelling, correct scaling, and structured answers can significantly impact evaluation.
CBSE’s policy is straightforward: only basic stationery is allowed, and any additional material required for answering questions is provided within the exam system itself. In board exams, awareness of rules is just as important as subject preparation.
