The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the launch of the first phase of its annual free Psycho-Social Counselling Services for students appearing in the Class 10 and 12 board examinations. As per an official statement, the services commenced on January 6, 2026, and will remain available until June 1, 2026. The initiative aims to support students’ mental and emotional well-being ahead of the board exams scheduled to begin on February 17, 2026.

The programme is intended to help students cope with exam-related stress, strengthen emotional resilience, and prepare for their examinations with confidence and a positive mindset.

24×7 Helpline and Professional Guidance

One of the key highlights of the initiative is a 24×7 helpline (1800-118-004), which provides round-the-clock support in both Hindi and English through an Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS). Students can receive guidance on stress-free exam preparation, time and stress management, frequently asked questions, and other important CBSE-related information.

Additionally, students and parents have the opportunity to interact directly with a panel of 73 trained experts, including school principals, counsellors, special educators, and qualified psychologists from CBSE-affiliated schools. Among them, 61 professionals are based in India, while 12 are stationed in countries such as Nepal, Japan, Qatar, Oman, and the UAE, ensuring a broad and diverse support network.

Digital Support Resources

CBSE has also uploaded a collection of curated digital resources on its official website focusing on stress management, effective study techniques, and emotional well-being. These resources are designed to be brief, engaging, and easy to access for both students and parents.

The Psycho-Social Counselling Services form part of CBSE’s annual support initiatives. In 2025, the first phase of the programme was conducted from February 1 to April 4, providing timely assistance to students and parents during the examination period.