Downloadable PDFs and marking schemes for CBSE Class 12 sample papers by subject for the academic year 2025-2026
Preparing for the 2026 CBSE Class 12 Board Exams: A Guide to Sample Papers and Marking Schemes
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the updated sample paper format for the 2025-2026 academic year, offering valuable resources for students preparing for their upcoming board exams.
The new format maintains a familiar structure but includes key changes reflecting the updated exam pattern. The papers are divided into three main sections: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Competency-Based Questions, and Descriptive Questions.
MCQs make up about 20% of the paper, while Competency-Based Questions (such as case-based or source-based questions) constitute around 30%. Descriptive questions, which include short and long answer types, cover roughly 50% of the exam.
For instance, in the Class 12 English (Core) paper, there are three sections: Reading (20 marks, comprehension passages including case-based), Writing & Grammar (20 marks, including formal/informal notices, letters, reports, and grammar tasks), and Literature (40 marks from prescribed texts focused on comprehension and analysis).
The sample papers and detailed marking schemes for all subjects have been officially released by the CBSE and are available in PDF format on the CBSE Academic website and through trusted educational portals. These samples follow the latest curriculum and exam formats intended for the 2026 Board Exams, helping students familiarize themselves with the pattern, types of questions, and marking distribution.
To access these resources, students simply need to visit the official CBSE Academic Website (cbseacademic.nic.in) and select "Class XII," followed by the specific subject for which they wish to download the sample paper. Sample papers and marking schemes are available for a wide range of subjects, including Accountancy, Arabic, Assamese, Bengali, Bharatanatyam, Biology, Biotechnology, Bhoti, Bodo, Business Studies, and more. The sample papers are available for all streams.
Regular practice with these sample papers is essential for students preparing for their board exams. Not only do they help students get familiar with the kind of language and phrasing used in board exam questions, but they also allow students to practice time management during the actual exam. Solving sample papers can help students identify their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to focus their study efforts effectively.
Moreover, regularly practicing with sample papers makes students more comfortable with the exam environment, reducing exam anxiety and boosting their confidence. Sample papers often highlight the key chapters or topics that carry more weight or are frequently tested, providing students with a clear focus for their studies.
In summary, the CBSE Class 12 Sample Papers 2025-26 are an invaluable resource for students preparing for their 2026 board exams. By downloading and practicing with these sample papers, students can familiarize themselves with the new exam format, types of questions, marking scheme, and overall structure of the paper, ultimately improving their chances of success in the board exams.
Engaging in online education platforms for education-and-self-development can provide students with additional practice materials aside from the CBSE's official sample papers.
Learning from various online sources and platforms can supplement students' understanding of the prescribed texts and topics, enhancing their overall preparation for the 2026 CBSE Class 12 Board Exams.
