By Malik 
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has given a big update for all Class 10 and Class 12 students preparing for the upcoming 2026 board examinations. The Board has officially uploaded the sample question papers and marking schemes for the 2025-26 academic year on its academic portal – cbseacademic.nic.in.
If you are a student appearing for the board exams, this is the right time to download the sample papers and start smart revision. These resources will help you understand the exam structure, question types, and marking system in detail.
No Changes in CBSE Exam Pattern 2026
Students can take a sigh of relief as CBSE has confirmed that there will be no changes in the exam pattern for the upcoming 2026 board exams. The evaluation and assessment process will remain the same as followed in the previous year (2024-25).
This means you can rely on last year’s exam format while preparing and practice with the latest sample papers to boost confidence.
Tentative Datesheet Released
Along with the sample question papers, CBSE has also published a tentative datesheet for Class 10 and Class 12 board exams 2026. Students should go through the timetable and plan their revision schedule accordingly. Working through the sample papers under timed conditions will help improve time management and accuracy.
Class 10 Sample Papers 2026 – Major Subjects
CBSE has released sample papers for most major subjects of Class 10. These include:
- Science
- Mathematics (Standard & Basic)
- Social Science
- Home Science
- Painting
Class 12 Sample Papers 2026 – Major Subjects
For Class 12, a wide range of sample papers are now available in both Hindi and English. Some of the major subjects include:
- Science Stream: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics
- Arts Stream: Political Science, History, Sociology, Geography, Legal Studies
- Commerce Stream: Applied Arts (Commercial Art), Home Science, Painting, Sculpture, Graphics
- Performing Arts: Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri Dance
CBSE’s Advice to Students & Schools
The Board has advised both teachers and students to make full use of these Sample Question Papers (SQPs) and Marking Schemes (MS).
- Teachers can integrate them into classroom practice.
- Students should solve them regularly to get used to the exam environment.
The aim is not just exam preparation, but also to encourage practical application of knowledge in real-life situations.
Why Solving Sample Papers is Important?
- Familiarity with Question Pattern – Students get to know the latest question trends.
- Understanding Marking Scheme – Helps in writing precise and to-the-point answers.
- Time Management – Practicing under exam conditions improves speed and accuracy.
- Confidence Boost – Solving model papers reduces exam stress and builds confidence.
Final Tip for Students
Start solving the sample papers from today itself. Use them as mock tests, analyze your mistakes, and work on weak areas. Remember, the earlier you start, the more confident you will feel on exam day.