CBSE Class 10 & 12 Sample Papers 2026-27: Official SQPs, Marking Scheme and Download Links
CBSE released the official Sample Question Papers and Marking Schemes for the 2026-27 session on September 21, 2026. The paper design, assessment pattern and passing criteria are unchanged from 2025-26.
Key Highlights
- CBSE released Sample Question Papers (SQP) and Marking Schemes (MS) for Class 10 and Class 12 on September 21, 2026.
- No change to question paper design or assessment pattern for 2026-27.
- Passing criteria for both classes remain identical to 2025-26.
- Papers are available free on the official CBSE Academic portal — no separate registration needed.
- Schools must integrate SQP-style questions into chapter tests and pre-boards.
What’s Unchanged for 2026-27
CBSE confirmed there is no change in the question paper design and assessment pattern for the 2026-27 academic session. Passing criteria for both Class 10 and Class 12 remain identical to the standards enforced in 2025-26. Teachers are expected to align classroom instruction and periodic evaluations with the question styles published in the SQPs, with a continued emphasis on conceptual clarity and real-life application.
Official Download Links
Download the papers directly from the CBSE Academic portal to avoid outdated or unofficial copies.
| Class | Official Portal Link | Key Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Class 10 | cbseacademic.nic.in/SQP_CLASSX_2026-27 | Real-life problem solving and core concept mastery |
| Class 12 | cbseacademic.nic.in/SQP_CLASSXII_2026-27 | Analytical depth, case evaluations, step-wise marking |
How to Download CBSE Sample Papers 2026-27
- Open the official CBSE Academic portal link for your class (Class 10 or Class 12) above.
- Locate your subject in the listed SQP and Marking Scheme files.
- Click the PDF to download the Sample Question Paper, then separately download its Marking Scheme.
- Save both files together so you can self-check answers step-by-step after solving.
For Class 10 Students
Solving the SQP is a start — a structured foundation course builds the conceptual base these papers are testing, across all subjects, ahead of your boards.
Subject-Wise Focus Areas
The SQPs are structured to test application over rote recall. Here’s what each core subject emphasizes this session:
Mathematics
Standard and Basic levels both stress multi-step, real-life word problems over direct formula recall.
Science
Case-based and assertion-reason questions testing applied conceptual understanding.
Social Science
Source-based and map questions alongside analytical, step-marked descriptive answers.
English
Unseen passages and applied grammar in context rather than isolated rule-based questions.
Classroom Implementation
Curricular Alignment
Integrate SQP-style problems into regular chapter tests and pre-board examinations so students get used to the mark distribution.
Step-Wise Evaluation Guidance
Students should study the Marking Scheme closely to see how examiners award marks for steps, reasoning and final answers — not just the final number.
Your Preparation Action Plan
Solve daily, under timed conditions. Work sample papers into your revision schedule and set a timer to simulate real exam pressure.
Analyse the Marking Scheme after every attempt. Identify exactly where marks were lost — missing steps, incomplete reasoning, or presentation — rather than only checking the final answer.
Report academic queries. Schools and subject experts can send feedback or questions on the SQPs directly to CBSE.
Beyond the Boards — Class 6 to 10
If you’re in Class 10 and want to test where you stand beyond school assessment, the NTSC 2025-26 is open to students from Class 6 to 10 and benchmarks talent nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has CBSE modified the exam pattern for 2026-27?
No. CBSE has confirmed the question paper design and assessment pattern remain identical to the 2025-26 session.
Where can students download the official Class 10 and 12 Sample Papers?
Directly from the CBSE Academic website — separate links are published for Class 10 and Class 12 SQPs and Marking Schemes.
Have the passing criteria changed?
No. Passing criteria for the 2026-27 cycle are exactly the same as those applied in 2025-26.
Is the official SQP the same as the actual board exam paper?
No — the SQP is a representative template showing question types and mark distribution, not the exact paper that will appear in the board exam.
What should students focus on while reviewing the Marking Scheme?
The allocation of marks per step, required keywords in answers, and the presentation standard examiners expect.
How many sample papers should a student solve before the boards?
There’s no official CBSE number — most schools recommend solving each subject’s SQP at least twice: once mid-syllabus and once as a full timed mock closer to exams.
How can schools submit feedback or corrections on the released SQPs?
Schools and subject experts can email their queries and feedback directly to CBSE’s designated academic contact for sample papers.
Academic queries or feedback on the SQPs can be sent by schools and subject experts to CBSE’s designated contact: cbsesqp@cbseshiksha.in
Source: CBSE notification to heads of affiliated institutions, issued September 21, 2026. Always verify current details on the official CBSE Academic portal before relying on any third-party copy.