The batch that will give the next exam first depends on the academic calendar, board schedules, and competitive exam timelines, with Class 10 and Class 12 boards usually being the first.
When students, parents, or even educators ask, “Which batch will give the next exam first?” they’re essentially seeking clarity on exam schedules — whether for school board exams, college entrance tests, or recruitment exams. The group to take the NExT exam answer may vary depending on the context: school boards (CBSE, ICSE, state boards), competitive exams (NEET, JEE, UPSC), or university-level assessments.
This guide will break down the complete picture in simple words so that you’ll know exactly which batch is expected to appear first in upcoming exams and why.
Which Batch Will Give the Next Exam First?
Students across India prepare for different types of exams. To answer this question with authority, let’s look at it in three categories:
-
School Boards (Class 10 & Class 12)
-
Competitive Exams (JEE, NEET, UPSC, etc.)
-
University & Recruitment Exams
Quick Personal Details Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Focus Question | Which batch will give next exam first? |
| School Boards | Class 10, Class 12 (usually start in February/March) |
| Competitive Exams | JEE Mains, NEET, CUET, UPSC (vary by month) |
| University Exams | Semester exams (Dec–Jan or May–June) |
| Recruitment Exams | SSC, Banking, Railways (throughout the year) |
| Year | 2025 Schedules |
Category 1: School Board Exams
For school students, the most anticipated question is:
Which batch will give the board exam first – Class 10 or Class 12?
-
Typically, Class 10 students start their board exams first, especially in CBSE and several state boards.
-
Class 12 exams often begin around the same time, but in many cases, Class 10 papers are scheduled slightly earlier.
Example (Based on Previous Patterns):
-
CBSE 2024: Class 10 exams began on February 15, while Class 12 started on February 16.
-
ICSE 2024: Class 10 students started earlier than ISC Class 12 students.
-
State Boards: Most follow a similar pattern, starting with Class 10 first.
Answer for Board Exams: Class 10 batch usually gives the next exam first.
Category 2: Competitive Exams
Competitive exams have their own cycle, and students often ask, “Which exam comes first in the year?”
Common Competitive Exams Order:
-
JEE Main (January session) – usually the first national-level exam of the year.
-
CUET & NEET (May) – come later in the cycle.
-
UPSC Prelims (May/June) – a major exam for civil services aspirants.
Answer for Competitive Exams: JEE Main aspirants (engineering stream) are the batch that faces the first big exam of the year.
Category 3: University & Recruitment Exams
University exams follow semester patterns, so:
-
Odd Semester Exams (Nov–Dec) often come first.
-
Recruitment exams (SSC, Banking, Railways) are scattered year-round.
For recruitment, SSC CGL Tier-I or banking prelims may appear earlier, depending on the official calendar.
Answer for Universities: Odd semester students give exams first.
Answer for Recruitment: Depends on specific notifications; banking prelims often come before SSC.
Comparison Table: Which Batch First?
| Exam Type | Batch Giving Exam First |
|---|---|
| CBSE/ICSE Boards | Class 10 students |
| State Boards | Class 10 students |
| Competitive Exams | JEE Main aspirants |
| University | Odd semester batch |
| Recruitment | Banking prelim candidates |
Why Does Class 10 Usually Give Exams First?
-
Logistical reasons: Exam centers manage Class 10 before Class 12.
-
Curriculum design: Class 12 requires more time for practical exams.
-
Nationwide uniformity: Easier for boards to align evaluation schedules.
Expert Tips to Handle Exam Anxiety
-
Know Your Dates Early: Keep track of the board/competitive calendar.
-
Plan Backward: Start revising 2–3 months before exams.
-
Prioritize Weak Areas: Focus on difficult subjects first.
-
Mock Tests: Time yourself to simulate exam pressure.
-
Stay Healthy: Balanced diet and sleep improve retention.
FAQs on Which Batch Will Give Next Exam First
Q1: Which batch gives exams first, Class 10 or Class 12?
Class 10 students usually start exams first.
Q2: Which competitive exam is first in 2025?
JEE Main January session will be among the first.
Q3: Do state boards follow the same pattern?
Yes, most start with Class 10 before Class 12.
Q4: Which university batches give exams first?
Odd semester students appear before even semester batches.
Q5: In recruitment, which exam usually comes first?
Banking prelims are often earlier than SSC exams.
Conclusion
The batch that will give the next exam first depends on the type of exam. For school boards, Class 10 students usually appear first, while in competitive exams, JEE Main aspirants are the first.
If you’re preparing, track your board or exam authority’s official calendar. With the right strategy, no matter which batch you belong to, you’ll be well-prepared to face the challenge.
