As the academic year 2025–26 begins, students, teachers, and parents are eager to understand the latest CBSE exam pattern and updated marking scheme. With board examinations approaching in early 2026, having clarity on these changes can make preparation more focused, strategic, and stress-free. At Create Curve, we believe that the right guidance at the right time can help every learner score their best.
1. Overview of the Updated CBSE Exam Pattern 2025–26
CBSE has continued its efforts to make assessments more competency-based and application-oriented. This year’s pattern encourages critical thinking, real-life application, and conceptual learning—exactly what the board aims to promote through the National Education Policy (NEP).
Here’s what students can expect in the CBSE Board Exam Pattern 2025–26:
a) More Competency-Based Questions
Around 50% of questions will be competency or application-based. These include case-study questions, source-based questions, and real-life scenario questions.
b) MCQs and Objective Questions
Approximately 20% of the paper will consist of MCQs. This shift ensures that students focus on understanding concepts rather than rote learning.
c) Short and Long Answer Questions
The remaining 30% includes SA and LA questions, which will continue to test writing clarity, conceptual knowledge, and analytical skills.
2. Latest Marking Scheme for 2025–26
The CBSE marking scheme has been designed to reward conceptual clarity and precise answers. Each subject will follow a detailed marking structure specifying step-wise marking for numerical questions and rubric-based marking for long answers.
a) Internal Assessment
For most subjects, 20 marks are reserved for Internal Assessment, which includes:
- Periodic tests
- Subject enrichment activities
- Practical work or project work
- Portfolio assessment
Students must stay consistent throughout the year, as internal marks significantly impact their final board results.
b) Theory Exam
The final board exam carries 80 marks and assesses understanding, presentation, and accuracy. CBSE has emphasized that the 2025–26 papers will include a balanced mix of easy, moderate, and analytical questions.
3. Subject-Wise Highlights
- Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology): More case-based questions and numericals with step marking.
- Mathematics: Higher weightage for competency-based questions; increased focus on logical reasoning.
- Social Science: Source-based and map-based questions to test real-world understanding.
- English & Hindi: Greater focus on reading comprehension and analytical writing.
4. How Students Can Prepare Effectively
At Create Curve, we guide students with structured lesson plans, mock tests, PYQs, and personalized feedback aligned with the latest CBSE exam pattern. Students are encouraged to:
- Solve sample papers regularly
- Practice writing answers within time limits
- Strengthen conceptual foundations
- Revise using NCERT as the primary resource
Conclusion
The CBSE Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme 2025–26 aims to build stronger learners who think critically and apply concepts confidently. With the right preparation strategy and consistent practice, students can excel in the upcoming board exams. At Create Curve, we are committed to helping every learner achieve excellence through expert guidance and updated pedagogy.
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