The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched a special counselling program for Class 10 and 12 students. This psycho-social counselling aims to help students manage exam stress and anxiety. The service started on January 6 and will continue until June 1, 2026 . Board exams for these classes are set to begin from February 17 .
Students often feel high levels of stress and anxiety as board exams approach. These feelings can make it hard to focus and study. CBSE provides this support to protect students' emotional well-being and boost their confidence during this exam time. It helps ensure students have mental clarity for their preparations.
How to Get Counselling Support
CBSE offers three main ways for students and parents to access help easily during the exam season.
1. 24/7 Toll-Free IVRS System
An Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) is available around the clock. Students can call this number for practical tips and advice. It covers stress management and effective exam preparation.
| Service Type | 24/7 Toll-Free IVRS |
| Contact Number | 1800-11-8004 |
| Availability Period | January 6 to June 1, 2026 |
| Operating Hours | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week |
| Support Provided | Guidance on stress management, exam preparation |
2. Tele-Counselling with Trained Counsellors
Students and parents can also speak directly with trained counsellors over the phone. A team of 73 expert counsellors is ready to help. These counsellors are from India, Qatar, Nepal, Japan, the UAE, and Oman. This network offers wide support.
| Service Type | Tele-Counselling |
| Number of Counsellors | 73 professionals |
| Countries Covered | India, Qatar, Nepal, Japan, UAE, Oman |
| Operating Days | Monday to Friday |
| Operating Hours | 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Support Provided | Personalized advice, mental clarity |
3. Digital Resources for Stress Reduction
CBSE has also shared online materials for students. These digital resources offer various strategies and information to help lower stress levels. Students can access them to learn ways to cope with exam pressure.
- Online guides on managing exam anxiety.
- Tips for better study planning.
- Relaxation techniques.
Importance of This Counselling
Board exams can be a challenging time. Pressure to perform well often leads to anxiety, affecting concentration and sleep. This stress can impact a student's ability to prepare and perform in exams.
The counselling program helps students understand and manage stress. Counsellors guide students on setting goals, improving study methods, and coping with difficult situations. They also help identify signs of high stress or depression. This ensures students get further help if needed.
The aim is for students to face exams with a clear mind and positive attitude. Students and parents are encouraged to use these free services. This helps prevent stress from interfering with exam preparation and overall well-being. CBSE supports students' mental health during this exam phase.
