CBSE Class X Board Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE Class X Board Exam Pattern
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026: Key Changes
The CBSE Class 10 Exam will have a major change this year. The CBSE will conduct 2 board exams in 1 year, and a candidate can appear for the exam twice to improve the CBSE Class 10 Score.
- The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026 follows the 80+20 marking scheme. The theory exam carries 80 marks, and the internal exam carries 20 marks.
- To pass CBSE Class 10, a candidate must score at least 33% marks in both the theory and practical exams.
- The exam pattern includes 50% competency-based questions, 20% objective-based questions, and 30% short and long answer questions.
New subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, financial literacy, and cyber security have been introduced. These subjects are offered along with core academics.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Same for All Subjects
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern is the same for each subject. The total marks distribution remains consistent across all subjects.
- 80 marks for the theory exam.
- 20 marks for the internal exam.
- 50% of questions are competency-based.
- 20% of questions are objective-based.
- 30% of questions are descriptive (short and long answer).
CBSE Class 10 Total Marks
The total marks for CBSE Class 10 are divided between theory and internal assessment. The theory exam is worth 80 marks, and the internal exam is worth 20 marks.
CBSE Twice-a-Year Exam Policy (From 2026)
From 2026, two exams will be held for the CBSE Class 10 Exam. This gives candidates a dual opportunity to appear for the board exam.
Candidates can appear for the exam twice in one year. This allows a second chance to improve the CBSE Class 10 Score.
CBSE Class 10 Subject-Wise Exam Pattern 2025-26
The subject-wise exam pattern covers core subjects and skill subjects. The pattern applies to Mathematics (Standard/Basic), Science, Social Science (SST), English Language & Literature, and Hindi (Course A / Course B).
Skill subjects include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology (IT), Financial Literacy, and Cybersecurity. The same 80+20 marking scheme applies to these subjects.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: 80+20 Marks Distribution & Question Types
80+20 Marks Distribution Format
The 80+20 marks distribution is fixed for the CBSE Class 10 Exam. The theory exam carries 80 marks, and the internal exam carries 20 marks.
Types of Questions in CBSE Class 10
The question paper is divided into three types of questions. The distribution is as follows:
| Question Type | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Competency-based questions | 50% |
| Objective-based questions | 20% |
| Short & long answer questions | 30% |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Topic-Wise Weightage 2025-26
Topic-wise weightage is available for each subject. The weightage applies to Mathematics, Science, Social Science, English Language & Literature, and Hindi (Course A/B).
Weightage is also provided for skill subjects such as AI, IT, Financial Literacy, and Cybersecurity. The subject-wise weightage details are part of the official exam pattern.
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus PDF
The CBSE Class 10 Syllabus is available separately. The syllabus covers all subjects included in the exam pattern.
What is the CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern?
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern is the structure followed by CBSE for class 10 students. By 2026, CBSE will conduct 2 board exams in one academic year, giving candidates 2 chances to appear for the exam.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern Overview
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Frequency | Two Board Exams in one academic year (Term I & Term II) |
| Total Marks | 100 marks per subject |
| Theory Exam | 80 marks (Board Exam conducted by CBSE) |
| Internal Assessment | 20 marks (Periodic tests, projects, assignments, practicals) |
| Passing Criteria | Minimum 33% required in both Theory and Internal Assessment separately |
| Question Paper Pattern | 50% competency-based, 20% objective (MCQs), 30% descriptive questions |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours |
| New Subjects Introduced | Artificial Intelligence, Financial Literacy, Cybersecurity |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Subject-Wise Marks
- All main subjects carry 80 marks theory and 20 marks internal, making a total of 100 marks.
- The Internal Assessment is of 20 marks. It includes periodic tests, projects, practicals, and submission of notebooks.
- Skills Subjects like AI, IT, Financial Literacy, and Cybersecurity include 50 theory marks and 50 practical marks, totalling 100 marks.
CBSE Class 10 Subject-Wise Marking Scheme PDF
| Subject | Download PDF |
|---|---|
| Science | Download PDF |
| Mathematics Basic | Download PDF |
| Mathematics Standard | Download PDF |
| Hindi A | Download PDF |
| Hindi B | Download PDF |
| Social Science | Download PDF |
| English | Download PDF |
CBSE Class 10 Total Marks
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern evaluates candidates on both theory and practical exams.
- Each academic subject carries 100 marks, while skill-based subjects follow a 50-50 pattern.
- The CBSE Class 10 Total Marks differ according to the number of subjects a candidate chooses.
| Category | Subjects Included | Marks per Subject | No. of Subjects | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Academic Subjects |
|
100 | 5 | 500 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2025-26
The CBSE Class 10 exam pattern for 2025-26 combines theory exams with internal assessment. Each main subject carries 100 marks, split as 80 marks for the theory exam and 20 marks for internal assessment.
Subject-Wise Marking Scheme
The table below shows the marking scheme for the core subjects in the CBSE Class 10 board exams.
| Subject | Total Marks | Theory Marks | Internal Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics (Standard/Basic) | 100 | 80 | 20 |
| Science | 100 | 80 | 20 |
| Social Science (SST) | 100 | 80 | 20 |
| English Language & Literature | 100 | 80 | 20 |
| Hindi (Course A / Course B) | 100 | 80 | 20 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Mathematics (Standard/Basic)
The CBSE Class 10 Maths exam is of 100 marks, with 80 marks for theory and 20 for internal assessment. The syllabus covers Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics and Probability.
CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Exam Pattern
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Algebra & Number Systems | 20 |
| Geometry & Mensuration | 15 |
| Trigonometry | 12 |
| Statistics & Probability | 11 |
| Coordinate Geometry | 7 |
| Internal Assessment | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Science
The CBSE Class 10 Science exam is of 100 marks, with 80 for theory and 20 for practical/internal. The internal assessment includes lab practicals, experiments, projects and a viva exam.
CBSE Class 10 Science Exam Pattern
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Physics | 25 |
| Chemistry | 25 |
| Biology | 30 |
| Internal Assessment | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Social Science (SST)
The CBSE Class 10 Social Science exam includes History, Geography, Political Science and Economics. Map work is compulsory in the exam. The exam is of 100 marks, with 80 for theory and 20 for internal assessment.
CBSE Class 10 Social Science Exam Pattern
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| History | 20 |
| Geography | 20 |
| Political Science | 20 |
| Economics | 20 |
| Internal Assessment | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: English Language & Literature
The CBSE Class 10 English exam is of 100 marks, with 80 for theory and 20 for internal assessment. The theory exam includes Reading, Writing, Grammar and Literature.
CBSE Class 10 English Exam Pattern
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 20 |
| Writing & Grammar | 20 |
| Literature (Prose & Poetry) | 40 |
| Internal Assessment (ASL + Class Tests) | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Hindi (Course A / Course B)
The CBSE Class 10 Hindi exam is of 100 marks, with 80 for theory and 20 for the internal exam. The internal exam includes listening, speaking, an assignment, and periodic tests. It offers Course A (Literature-focused) and Course B (Functional Hindi).
CBSE Class 10 Hindi Exam Pattern
The CBSE Class 10 Hindi exam is for a total of 100 marks. The marks are divided between a written exam and internal assessment.
The written exam is for 80 marks, and the internal assessment is for 20 marks.
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Reading | 10 |
| Writing | 20 |
| Grammar | 15 |
| Literature (Prose & Poetry) | 35 |
| Internal Assessment | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Skill Subjects
Skill subjects such as AI, IT, Financial Literacy, and Cybersecurity are also for 100 marks. The marks are split equally between theory and practicals.
- The Skill subjects will be of 100 marks, 50 for theory and 50 for practical.
- The CBSE Class 10 skill subject Exams will focus on hands-on learning, projects and lab work.
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Theory (CBSE Board Exam) | 50 |
| Practical/Projects | 50 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: 80+20 Marks Distribution
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern follows an 80+20 marks distribution format. This balances both theory and internal assessment.
This format evaluates both conceptual understanding and the practical application of knowledge.
80+20 Marks Distribution Format
- 80 Marks (Theory - Exam): Written Paper of 3 hours, which includes full syllabus coverage.
- 20 Marks (Internal Assessment): It is based on the periodic tests, assignments, notebook submission and subject enrichment activities.
- It ensures continuous evaluation along with the board assessment as well.
Types of Questions in CBSE Class 10
| Type of Question | Approx. Weightage in 80 Marks Board Paper | Nature of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Competency/Case-based MCQs | 40–50% | Situational, real-life application questions |
| Short Answer (2–4 marks) | 30% | Conceptual and analytical questions |
| Long Answer (5–6 marks) | 20–25% | Descriptive, detailed explanations |
| Objective / Very Short Answer | 10% | Direct fact/definition-based |
CBSE Twice-a-Year Exam Policy (From 2026)
From the year 2026, CBSE will conduct 2 board exams to reduce the pressure of exams. This gives candidates a chance to improve their scores.
This new format will ensure flexibility and will be aligned with the NEP 2020.
How the Twice-a-Year CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern Benefits Students
- The CBSE Class 10 Exam pattern is the same as the format of 80+20 Marks.
- As a result, the best of the 2 will be counted to help candidates maximise their scores.
- After the main exam in February-March 2026, the candidates can give an improvement exam in May-June.
- This will ensure less pressure along with more opportunities and better academic outcomes.
| Exam Aspect | Twice-a-Year Exam Policy (from 2026) | Impact on Students |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Attempts | 2 Board Exams (Feb–March & May–June) | Students will get a second chance without losing a year. |
| Marks Distribution (80+20) | Same 80 (theory) + 20 (internal) | The exam pattern is not changed |
| Result Consideration | The best of these 2 marks will be considered | Improves chances of higher marks & better percentage |
| Stress Factor | The Stress is low, as a second attempt is also available | Reduce the pressure of exam and a better mental health. |
| Preparation Strategy |
|
Helps students revise & refine weak areas |
| Alignment with NEP 2020 | Fully aligned with NEP 2020 Policy. | Encourages flexibility & holistic learning |
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus PDF
The syllabus for CBSE Class 10 is available in PDF format. Students can refer to the official CBSE website for the detailed syllabus.
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus 2025-26: Subject-wise PDF Links
The official CBSE Class 10 syllabus for the 2025-26 session is available for download. The syllabus PDFs are hosted on the CBSE Academic website.
Students can download the syllabus for each subject from the table below.
| Subject Name | Syllabus PDF Link |
|---|---|
| CBSE Class 10 English Language & Literature Syllabus | Download PDF |
| CBSE Class 10 Communicative English | Download PDF |
| CBSE Class 10 Science Syllabus | Download PDF |
| CBSE Class 10 Maths Syllabus | Download PDF |
| CBSE Class 10 Social Science Syllabus | Download PDF |
| CBSE Class 10 Hindi Course A Syllabus | Download PDF |
| CBSE Class 10 Hindi Course B Syllabus | Download PDF |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Topic-Wise Weightage 2025-26
The CBSE Class 10 topic-wise weightage for 2025-26 shows the marks carried by each unit and chapter in the board examination. This information helps students plan a smart preparation strategy by focusing on high-weightage topics.
CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Weightage
Algebra carries the highest weightage of 20 marks. Geometry and Trigonometry together account for 27 marks.
- The Number System and Coordinate Geometry have low weightage of 6 marks each.
- Statistics & Probability carry 11 marks.
- Mensuration carries 10 marks.
| Unit / Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Number Systems | 6 |
| Algebra (Polynomials, Linear Equations) | 20 |
| Geometry (Circles, Constructions) | 15 |
| Trigonometry | 12 |
| Mensuration (Surface Areas & Volumes) | 10 |
| Statistics & Probability | 11 |
| Coordinate Geometry | 6 |
| Total (Theory) | 80 |
CBSE Class 10 Science Weightage
Biology carries the maximum weightage of 30 marks in the Science exam. Physics and Chemistry each carry 25 marks.
- Practical-based topics are asked more in the exam.
| Unit / Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Physics (Light, Electricity, Human Eye, etc.) | 25 |
| Chemistry (Chemical Reactions, Acids-Bases-Salts, Metals & Non-Metals, Carbon Compounds, Periodic Classification) | 25 |
| Biology (Life Processes, Reproduction, Genetics, Evolution, Environment) | 30 |
| Total (Theory) | 80 |
CBSE Class 10 Social Science Weightage
All four sections in the Social Science exam carry equal weightage of 20 marks each. History and Geography together combine for 40 marks.
- History and Geography questions are factual and map-related.
- Political Science is important for conceptual and competency-based questions.
- Economics carries 20 marks and is important for scoring full marks.
| Unit / Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| History (Nationalism, Industrialisation, Print Culture, etc.) | 20 |
| Geography (Resources, Agriculture, Industries, etc.) | 20 |
| Political Science (Democracy, Federalism, Gender, Political Parties, Outcomes of Democracy) | 20 |
| Economics (Development, Sectors of Economy, Money & Credit, Globalisation, Consumer Rights) | 20 |
| Total (Theory) | 80 |
CBSE Class 10 English Language & Literature Weightage
The Literature section carries 40 marks and requires deep textual understanding. The Reading and Writing/Grammar sections carry 20 marks each.
- Students can increase their score by practising reading comprehension.
- Enhancing writing skills is also important for scoring well.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: English (Language and Literature)
The English theory paper is for 80 marks. It is divided into three sections.
- Reading Comprehension has 2 passages and carries 20 marks.
- Writing Skills and Grammar together carry 20 marks.
- Literature, covering First Flight and Footprints Without Feet, carries 40 marks.
| Section / Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension (2 Passages) | 20 |
| Writing Skills & Grammar | 20 |
| Literature (First Flight & Footprints Without Feet) | 40 |
| Total (Theory) | 80 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Hindi (Course A/B) Weightage
Hindi literature carries the maximum marks in the paper. The prose and poetry sections are important for scoring higher marks.
- The Reading section is 10 marks and is easy to score.
- The Writing section is 20 marks, and the Grammar section is 15 marks.
- Together, Writing and Grammar contribute 35 marks and require regular practice.
| Section / Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Reading | 10 |
| Writing | 20 |
| Grammar | 15 |
| Literature (Prose & Poetry) | 35 |
| Total (Theory) | 80 |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Skill Subjects Weightage
Skill subjects such as AI, IT, Financial Literacy, and Cybersecurity carry a total of 100 marks. The theory and practical components have equal weightage.
- The theory exam is for 50 marks.
- The practical or project work is for 50 marks.
- More emphasis is given to practical application in IT, AI, Financial literacy, and cybersecurity.
| Component | Marks |
|---|---|
| Theory (CBSE Written Exam) | 50 |
| Practical / Projects | 50 |
| Total | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Internal Assessment Pattern 2026
The CBSE Class 10 Internal Assessment will carry 20 marks for each subject. It tests candidates throughout the year, apart from the main exam.
The assessment includes periodic tests, notebook submission, enrichment activity, and practical or project work.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Internal Assessment Marks Distribution
| Component | Marks | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Periodic Tests | 10 marks | 3 tests were conducted during the year, and the best two were considered |
| Notebook Submission | 5 marks | Evaluation of regularity, assignment completion, and neatness |
| Subject Enrichment Activities | 5 marks | Includes lab work, ASL (English/Hindi), map work (Social Science), practicals, and projects |
| Total | 20 marks | Added to the 80 marks theory for the final 100 marks assessment |
Changes in CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026 introduces a biannual exam system for the 2025-26 academic session. Students can appear for 2 board exams in 1 year.
This change provides multiple opportunities to candidates to reduce academic stress.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern: Changes
| Component | Previous Pattern (till 2025) | New Pattern (2026 onwards) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Board Exams | One annual board exam | Two board exams (Biannual) |
| Marks Distribution | 80 marks (Theory) + 20 marks (Internal) | Same – 80 marks (Theory) + 20 marks (Internal) |
| Passing Criteria | 33% in both Theory & Internal | Same – 33% in both Theory & Internal |
| Competency-Based Questions | 40% of the total paper | 50% of the total paper |
| Objective Type Questions (MCQs, short answers) | 20% of the total paper | 20% (no change) |
| Constructed Response Questions (Long/Short Answer) | 40% of the total paper | 30% of the total paper |
| New Subjects & Skills | Limited electives | More focus on AI, Cybersecurity, and Financial Literacy |
| Assessment Style | Single opportunity | Two opportunities for improvement in the same academic year |
FAQs for CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern
Will there be boards in 2025-26 for Class 10?
Yes, the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam will be conducted in 2025-26. From the academic year 2026, 2 board exams will be conducted.
Candidates can appear in both exams, and the best score will be considered for the final result.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exam Frequency
The number of board exams for CBSE Class 10 changes by academic year. For the 2024-25 session, there is one board exam. From the 2025-26 session, there will be two board exams.
| Academic Year | Board Exam Frequency | Best Score Considered |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 1 board exam | Final marks of single exam |
| 2025-26 | 2 board exams | Best of two attempts |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2025-26
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern for 2025-26 is 100 marks for each subject. This total is divided between the theory exam and internal assessment.
| Component | Marks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Theory (Board Exam) | 80 | 80% |
| Internal Assessment | 20 | 20% |
| Total | 100 | 100% |
CBSE Class 10 Paper Pattern 2026
The CBSE Class 10 Exam for 2026 follows the 80+20 method. The question paper has a mix of objective, short answer, and long answer questions.
| Question Type | Expected Weightage |
|---|---|
| MCQs / Objective | 20-25% |
| Short Answer (2–3 marks) | 30-35% |
| Long Answer (5–6 marks) | 40-45% |
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus 2025-26
The Class 10 syllabus for 2025-26 is based on the NCERT curriculum. It covers Science, Maths, Social Science, English, Hindi, and other electives.
| Subject | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Number Systems, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, Probability |
| Science | Chemical Reactions, Acids-Bases-Salts, Life Processes, Light, Electricity, Heredity, Environment |
| Social Science | History: Nationalism, Industrialisation; Geography: Resources, Agriculture; Civics: Democracy, Rights; Economics: Development, Globalisation |
| English | Reading Comprehension, Writing (Letter, Article), Grammar, Literature (Prose & Poetry from NCERT books) |
| Hindi | Paragraph, Letter, Unseen passage |
| IT/Computer | Basics of IT, HTML |
CBSE Class 10 2025 Result Data
Around 22 lakh candidates appeared for the CBSE Class 10 Exam in 2025. The passing percentage was 93%, with 1.56 lakh candidates failing.
| Total Students Appeared | Pass % | Students Failed (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 22.38 lakh | 93% | 1.56 lakh |
MCQ Questions in CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026
The CBSE Class 10 Board Exam will include 20-25% MCQ questions in every subject. Since the exams are of 80 marks, 20 marks will be from MCQs.
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern Overview 2026
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern includes 80 marks for the theory exam and 20 marks for the internal assessment. This structure applies to each subject.
CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2025-26: Will There Be Board Exams?
Yes, the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam will be conducted in 2025-26. From the academic year 2026, two board exams will be conducted.
Candidates can appear in both exams. The best score will be considered for the final result.
| Academic Year | Board Exam Frequency | Best Score Considered |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 1 board exam | Final marks of single exam |
| 2025-26 | 2 board exams | Best of two attempts |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2025-26
The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern will be of 100 marks for each subject. The exam follows an 80+20 method.
| Component | Marks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Theory (Board Exam) | 80 | 80% |
| Internal Assessment | 20 | 20% |
| Total | 100 | 100% |
CBSE Class 10 Paper Pattern 2026
The CBSE Class 10 Exam will follow a structure of the 80+20 method. The question paper will have a mix of different question types.
| Question Type | Expected Weightage |
|---|---|
| MCQs / Objective | 20-25% |
| Short Answer (2-3 marks) | 30-35% |
| Long Answer (5-6 marks) | 40-45% |
Subject-wise Exam Duration and Marks
Each subject has a theory exam of 80 marks and an internal assessment of 20 marks. The exam duration for each subject is 3 hours.
| Subject | Exam Duration | Theory (80) | Internal (20) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Science | 3 hours | 80 | 20 |
| Mathematics | 3 hours | 80 | 20 |
| Social Science | 3 hours | 80 | 20 |
| English/Hindi | 3 hours | 80 | 20 |
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus 2025-26
The Class 10 syllabus 2025-26 will be based on the NCERT curriculum. It covers Science, Maths, Social Science, English, Hindi, and other electives.
| Subject | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Number Systems, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, Probability |
| Science | Chemical Reactions, Acids-Bases-Salts, Life Processes, Light, Electricity, Heredity, Environment |
| Social Science | History: Nationalism, Industrialisation; Geography: Resources, Agriculture; Civics: Democracy, Rights; Economics: Development, Globalisation |
| English | Reading Comprehension, Writing (Letter, Article), Grammar, Literature (Prose & Poetry from NCERT books) |
| Hindi | Paragraph, Letter, Unseen passage |
| IT/Computer | Basics of IT, HTML |
CBSE Class 10 2025 Result Data
In the Year 2025, around 22 lakh candidates appeared for the CBSE Class 10 Exam. The passing percentage of candidates was 93%.
From the total candidates, 1.56 lakh candidates failed.
| Total Students Appeared | Pass % | Students Failed (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 22.38 lakh | 93% | 1.56 lakh |
Number of MCQs in Board Exam 2026 Class 10
The CBSE Class 10 Board Exam will include 20-25% MCQ questions in every subject. As the exams are of 80 marks, 20 marks will be of MCQs.
