The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the Sample Question Papers (SQPs) and Marking Schemes (MS) for Classes 10 and 12 for the academic session 2026–27. The notification was issued on September 21, 2026, providing students and schools with the official resources to understand the upcoming board examination pattern.
CBSE issues Sample Question Papers to provide students and teachers with a broad template for the board examinations. The papers are designed to give an understanding of the question paper structure, curriculum coverage and assessment approach. The Board has also stated that the SQPs should be used in classroom teaching and learning activities, with an overall focus on the application of concepts in real-life situations.
SQPs Available for Classes 10 and 12
The Sample Question Papers for the 2026–27 academic session are now available for both Class 10 and Class 12. CBSE has provided separate resources for the two classes so that students can become familiar with the expected format of their respective board examinations.
The SQPs are particularly useful for students preparing for board examinations because they offer an official reference for understanding how questions may be structured and how different parts of the syllabus may be assessed.
Teachers can also use these papers as classroom resources while preparing students for their examinations. CBSE has highlighted their role in supporting uniformity and ensuring appropriate coverage of the prescribed curriculum.
No Change in Assessment Pattern
An important clarification in the latest notification is that there is no change in the question paper design and assessment pattern for the 2026–27 academic session. Students therefore do not need to prepare for a newly introduced examination pattern based on this notification.
CBSE has also confirmed that the passing criteria will remain the same as those applicable during the 2025–26 academic session. This provides continuity for students and schools as they plan their preparation for the upcoming board examinations.
Resource for Students and Teachers
The release of the Sample Question Papers gives students an opportunity to understand the examination framework while they are continuing their academic preparation. By working with the official SQPs and studying the corresponding marking schemes, students can become familiar with the way questions are presented and the expected assessment framework.
Schools affiliated with CBSE have also been informed about the release, with the Board requesting the concerned authorities and regional offices to disseminate the notification to affiliated schools.
CBSE has invited queries and feedback regarding the Sample Question Papers through the email address mentioned in its notification.
The release of the 2026–27 Sample Question Papers provides an official reference for Class 10 and 12 students as they prepare for their board examinations. With the Board confirming that the existing question paper design, assessment pattern and passing criteria will continue, students can use the newly released SQPs and marking schemes to understand the examination framework and plan their preparation accordingly.
