NEW DELHI: As the countdown to the 2026 board examinations begins, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has rolled out the first phase of its annual psycho-social counselling programme for Class 10 and 12 students. The initiative has been launched ahead of exams scheduled for February 17 and aims to help students manage exam-related anxiety, boost confidence, and maintain mental well-being. This year’s counselling phase will continue till June 1, covering the entire examination and post-result period. The move underscores CBSE’s focus on a holistic approach to education, where emotional and psychological health are considered as vital as academic success.
The counselling programme focuses on helping students manage examination-related stress and anxiety. It offers round-the-clock tele-counselling support through the toll-free number 1800-11-8004, available in both Hindi and English via IVRS (Interactive Voice Response System). The IVRS includes pre-recorded information on topics such as mental wellness, self-motivation, and maintaining balance during intensive study periods. In addition, students and parents can access direct tele-counselling sessions with trained professionals for more personalised support.
According to CBSE, this service provides practical advice on stress-free preparation, effective time management, and emotional stability. It also offers responses to frequently asked questions and other CBSE-related information to assist students during the crucial exam period.
A team of 73 trained professionals, including principals, counsellors, psychologists, and special educators from CBSE-affiliated schools, are participating in the initiative. Of these, 61 counsellors are based in India, while 12 are located abroad in Nepal, Japan, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), ensuring a global support network for students studying under the CBSE curriculum worldwide.
These counsellors are volunteering their services to guide students through not only exam-related stress but also emotional challenges such as fear of failure, parental pressure, and performance anxiety. The experts will also provide insights into maintaining healthy routines, nutrition, and relaxation practices during exams.
In addition to counselling, CBSE has curated a comprehensive collection of digital resources on stress management, effective study strategies, and emotional well-being, available on its official website at www.cbse.gov.in. These resources are designed to be engaging, concise, and student-friendly.
One of the key highlights of the initiative is its international reach. With counsellors stationed in various countries, CBSE ensures that students enrolled in Indian schools abroad also have access to similar mental health support. The entire counselling programme operates on a voluntary basis, reflecting the educators’ commitment to student welfare.
