CBSE Launches Free Counselling Programme to Help Class 10 and 12 Students Tackle Board Exam Stress

As lakhs of students across India gear up for the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has rolled out its annual free psycho-social counselling initiative to help them manage exam-related stress and anxiety. The first phase of the programme officially began on January 6, well ahead of the 2026 board exams, reinforcing the board’s focus on mental and emotional well-being alongside academic preparation.

The counselling services are designed to support not only students but also parents, recognising that exam stress often affects entire households. With board exams approaching, CBSE aims to create a supportive ecosystem that enables students to prepare with confidence, emotional balance, and clarity of thought.

Counselling Support Until June 2026

CBSE has confirmed that the counselling initiative will remain active until June 1, 2026, covering the full examination cycle—from pre-exam preparation and the exam period itself to post-result stress management. This extended timeline ensures that students have access to professional guidance during all critical phases of the board exam journey.

The CBSE theory examinations for 2026 are scheduled to begin on February 17, a period when stress and performance pressure typically peak. By launching the counselling services well in advance, the board hopes students will proactively seek help rather than waiting until anxiety becomes overwhelming.

Focus on Emotional and Psychological Well-Being

The psycho-social counselling programme specifically addresses emotional challenges such as exam fear, performance anxiety, time-management difficulties, lack of motivation, and parental pressure. CBSE has highlighted that the initiative aims to help students maintain emotional stability, develop coping strategies, and approach exams with a positive mindset.

Parents are also encouraged to use the services, as they play a crucial role in shaping students’ emotional responses during exam season. Counsellors guide parents on how to create a supportive home environment, manage expectations, and communicate constructively with their children during this sensitive period.

24×7 Toll-Free Helpline for Immediate Support

One of the key features of the initiative is a 24×7 toll-free Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS), which can be accessed at 1800-11-8004. The helpline is available in both Hindi and English, ensuring accessibility for students and parents across regions.

The IVRS provides recorded guidance on:

• Effective exam preparation techniques
• Time management strategies
• Stress and anxiety reduction tips
• Answers to frequently asked questions related to CBSE exams
• Important CBSE contact details and support information

Since the helpline operates round the clock, students can seek reassurance and guidance at any time, including late nights when anxiety often intensifies.

Tele-Counselling with Trained Professionals

In addition to the automated IVRS, CBSE has also arranged tele-counselling services, which offer direct interaction with trained professionals. These services are available from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm on all working days.

A panel of 73 qualified experts has been empanelled for this purpose. The group includes school principals, trained counsellors, special educators from CBSE-affiliated schools, and professional psychologists. Their combined expertise allows them to address a wide range of academic, emotional, and behavioural concerns faced by students.

Out of the total panel, 61 professionals are based in India, while 12 counsellors are operating from countries such as Nepal, Japan, Qatar, Oman, and the UAE. This international presence ensures extended availability and a broader perspective, especially for students studying abroad under the CBSE curriculum.

Digital Resources to Reduce Exam Pressure

To complement helplines and tele-counselling, CBSE has also introduced a set of digital well-being resources on its official website. According to the board, these materials have been developed to be concise, engaging, and easily accessible, making them suitable for students with busy study schedules.

The digital content focuses on:

• Study planning and goal setting
• Managing exam-related emotions
• Building concentration and focus
• Practising self-care during exam preparation
• Developing healthy routines and sleep habits

By offering these resources online, CBSE allows students to access guidance at their own pace and revisit key strategies whenever needed.

A Holistic Approach to Exam Preparation

CBSE has emphasised that academic success is closely linked to emotional health. Merely completing the syllabus or practising previous years’ papers is often not enough if students are overwhelmed by stress or self-doubt. The counselling initiative reflects the board’s holistic approach, which recognises that emotional resilience, confidence, and mental clarity are essential components of exam performance.

The board has stated that expanding access to both professional counselling and digital tools is part of its long-term commitment to student welfare. Rather than treating mental health as a secondary concern, CBSE has positioned it as a core element of the examination ecosystem.

Encouragement for Students and Parents

CBSE has strongly urged students and parents to actively use these free services, especially during periods of heightened pressure. The board has reiterated that seeking counselling should be viewed as a strength, not a weakness, and that early intervention can prevent stress from escalating into more serious issues.

The wide network of counsellors—spread across India and abroad—ensures that guidance is accessible, culturally sensitive, and tailored to diverse student needs. Whether a student is dealing with exam fear, confusion about preparation strategies, or emotional burnout, professional support is readily available.

Preparing for the 2026 Board Exams with Confidence

By combining a 24×7 helpline, structured tele-counselling, and carefully designed digital resources, CBSE has created a comprehensive support system for Class 10 and 12 students appearing in the 2026 board exams. The initiative not only addresses immediate exam stress but also encourages healthier attitudes towards learning and performance.