The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has set the stage for a major recruitment drive, officially releasing the examination schedule for the first stage of its Direct Recruitment Quota (DRQ) for 2026. This move paves the way for filling numerous government positions within the board's offices nationwide.
CBSE DRQ 2026 Tier 1: Exam Schedule and Key Details
According to the board's public notice, the crucial Tier 1 examination will be conducted on January 31 and February 1, 2026. The test will be held in the traditional pen-and-paper (offline) mode across various examination centres in the country. This exam serves as the initial screening test for candidates aspiring to secure Group A, Group B, and Group C posts under the CBSE.
The examination will be held in two shifts on each of the two days. The detailed schedule for the posts is as follows:
January 31, 2026:
- Session 1 (9:30 AM to 11:30 AM): This common paper will be for candidates applying for the posts of Assistant Secretary, Assistant Professor and Assistant Director (Academics), Assistant Professor and Assistant Director (Training), Assistant Professor and Assistant Director (Skill Education), Accounts Officer, and Junior Translation Officer.
- Session 2 (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM): This shift is designated for the Superintendent post.
February 1, 2026:
- Session 1 (9:30 AM to 11:30 AM): Candidates for Junior Accountant and Junior Assistant posts will appear for a common paper in this morning shift.
Posts, Selection Process, and Admit Card
This recruitment drive encompasses a wide range of administrative and academic roles. Major posts include Assistant Professor, Director, Assistant Director, Superintendent, Assistant Secretary, Accounts Officer, Junior Accountant, and Junior Assistant. All candidates who have successfully submitted their applications are required to appear for this Tier 1 examination. Their performance here will determine their shortlisting for subsequent stages of the selection process.
The selection process for CBSE Direct Recruitment 2026 is multi-layered. While Tier 1 is the first hurdle, candidates may later have to appear for Tier 2 exams, skill tests, interviews, or document verification, depending on the specific post they have applied for. The final selection will be based on cumulative performance across all required stages and verification of eligibility criteria.
In the coming weeks, CBSE will release the Tier 1 admit cards on its official website. Candidates must download their hall tickets using their login credentials. This document is vital as it will contain all necessary details like the candidate's exam date, shift timing, precise exam centre address, and important day-of instructions. Candidates must remember to carry a printed copy of this admit card along with a valid photo ID to the examination centre.
Next Steps for Aspirants
With the dates now set in stone, applicants are advised to kickstart their final preparations for the offline examination. It is crucial for candidates to regularly monitor the official CBSE website for any further updates, including the exact release date for admit cards and any potential changes to the schedule or instructions.
This recruitment presents a significant opportunity for job seekers aiming for stable government careers in the education sector's administrative and academic wings. Adhering to all guidelines and staying informed through official channels will be key to navigating this recruitment process successfully.
