CBSE 2026 sample papers for Class 10th and 12th released: Check SQPs for board exams here

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the Sample Question Papers (SQPs) and Marking Schemes (MS) for Classes 10 and 12 for the academic session 2025–26. The resources are now available on the CBSE Academic website — cbseacademic.nic.in. With the release, the Board has also clarified that there will be no changes to the assessment pattern for the current academic year.

In its official circular, CBSE stated: “The Board issues Sample Question Papers (SQPs) and Marking Schemes (MS) for classes X and XII to provide a broad template and serve as a guide for ensuring uniformity and proper coverage of the curricula.”

The notice also reiterated that these sample papers are intended not only for exam preparation but also as tools to support classroom teaching and real-life application of concepts. Educators have been encouraged to integrate these resources into routine academic planning.

As confirmed by the board, the evaluation format will remain consistent with that of the 2024–25 academic session. This continuity is expected to provide stability for both teachers and students, ensuring alignment in preparation and instructional strategies.

CBSE sample papers 2026: Steps to download

Candidates can follow the steps mentioned here to download the CBSE sample papers 2026 from the official website:

• Visit the CBSE Academic website at cbseacademic.nic.in.
• On the homepage, click on the link titled “CBSE Sample Papers 2026”.
• A PDF notice will open containing the direct links for Class 10 and Class 12 sample papers.
• Click on the relevant class: Class 10 Sample Papers 2026, Class 12 Sample Papers 2026
• Choose the subject of interest from the list provided.
• Download and view the sample paper and marking scheme.
• Save a hard copy for use in exam preparation or classroom reference.

Students can click on the link provided here to download the CBSE Class 10th sample papers.

Candidates can click on the link mentioned here to download the Class 12th sample papers.

Why these sample papers matter

The SQPs offer a detailed insight into question paper design, weightage distribution, and expected response formats. For students preparing for the high-stakes board examinations, these documents act as mock templates, helping them align their preparation with CBSE’s academic standards.

With the board exams a few months away, the early release of the SQPs and MS aims to give students sufficient time to familiarise themselves with the format and approach their studies with clarity and confidence.

Students can check the official notice regarding CBSE sample papers as provided here.
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