CBSE Board Exam 2026 Live: Physics exam concludes, question paper moderately difficult

CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) conducted the Class 12 Physics board examination on February 20, 2026, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm across centres in India and abroad. Lakhs of students from the Science stream appeared for the 70-mark theory paper, which is considered one of the most critical subjects for those preparing for engineering and other competitive entrance examinations.

Paper Pattern and Structure

The Physics theory paper was conducted for a total of 70 marks and followed the latest CBSE examination pattern. The question paper included a mix of one-mark multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, case-study based questions, and long descriptive questions carrying up to five marks. Internal choices were provided in several sections, allowing students some flexibility in attempting questions.
As per initial inputs from teachers and students, the paper adhered strictly to the prescribed syllabus. There were no out-of-syllabus questions reported. The overall structure was aligned with the sample paper released earlier by the board, giving an advantage to students who had practised previous years’ question papers and official model papers.

Difficulty Level and Student Reactions

Early reactions suggest that the paper was moderate in difficulty but concept-driven. Many students said that numerical questions required careful calculations and strong conceptual clarity. Topics such as electrostatics, current electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, optics, and modern physics reportedly had significant weightage.

Several students found the multiple-choice questions straightforward. However, some long-answer numerical problems were described as lengthy and time-consuming. Case-study based questions were considered manageable by those who had thoroughly revised NCERT examples and derivations.

Teachers reviewing the paper described it as balanced. According to subject experts, the examination tested conceptual understanding rather than rote memorisation. Students who had prepared systematically and practised derivations and numericals were likely able to attempt the paper confidently.

Answer Key and Evaluation Expectations

Unofficial answer keys for different sets of the Physics paper have started appearing on educational portals soon after the exam concluded. These provisional solutions are helping students estimate their probable scores. However, students are advised to cross-check answers carefully and rely on credible academic sources.
The board does not immediately release official answer keys for theory subjects. The evaluation process is expected to begin shortly, following standard CBSE procedures.

Passing Marks and What Lies Ahead

As per CBSE norms, students must secure a minimum of 33 per cent marks in the subject to pass. This includes both theory and practical components taken together. Physics carries 70 marks for theory and 30 marks for practical examination.
With the Physics exam completed, students will now shift their focus to upcoming board papers. Detailed analysis and expert reviews are expected to provide further clarity on expected cut-offs and overall performance trends in the coming days.