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CBSE CLASS XII Latest Updates
26 Sep, 2025 CBSE Class 12 Previous Year Papers with solutions PDF are available here for free. Download Here
The CBSE Class 12th Exam pattern 2026 has undergone some changes due to the NEP 2020. The Major change is that 50% of the exam will include competency-based questions.
Including the MCQs, case studies, and source-based questions that will test candidates' conceptual knowledge.
- The CBSE Class 12th Exam includes 20% of the MCQs and 30% of the case-based or source-based questions, and the other 50% will include short and long-type questions.
- According to the latest updates, 60-70% of the exam will be NCERT-based, and the internal assessment, like periodic tests, projects, and activities, will also contribute to the final score.
Every subject will be of 100 marks, in which 80 marks will be from theory and 20 from practical/internal assessment, and the students should score more than 33% of marks in each subject to pass the exam.
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| Key Summary: In This Article, we have discussed about CBSE Class 12th Exam Pattern, including the latest changes, marks distribution, question type and passing marks.
|
CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2025-26: Highlights
CBSE class 12 exam pattern 2025-26 highlights can be checked from the table below:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education |
| Question Paper Pattern |
|
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Medium | English / Hindi |
| Mode | Offline |
| Number of subjects | 5 or 6 (as elected by the student) |
| Maximum Marks | 100 (theory + practical)
|
| Passing marks for each subject | 33% |
| Passing marks for the overall exam | Aggregate 33% |
- The new syllabus focuses on the applicability
- It is designed to enhance critical thinking and improve analytical skills.
- The revised syllabus is perfectly aligned with NEP 2020
- Based on the new syllabus, the overall learning outcome will be better.
CBSE Class 12 Subject-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme 2025-26
The division of total marks for theory and practical as per the updated CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2025-26 is provided in the table below:
| Subject | Marks in Theory | Marks in Practical |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 70 | 30 |
| Chemistry | 70 | 30 |
| Biology | 70 | 30 |
| Computer Science | 70 | 30 |
| Mathematics | 80 | 20 |
| English | 80 | 20 |
| Sociology | 80 | 20 |
| Political Science | 80 | 20 |
| History | 80 | 20 |
| Geography | 80 | 20 |
| Economics | 80 | 20 |
| Business Studies | 80 | 20 |
| Accountancy | 80 | 20 |
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CBSE Class 12th Chapter-Wise WeightageGuidelines Shared by a CBSE Aspirant
Ques. Is the pattern for compartment exams in July 2026 also going to change?
Ans. Yes, the compartment exam pattern in the 2025-26 academic year will follow the same pattern as the main exam.
Ques. For private candidates who will repeat the exam in 2026, will the pattern change or remain the same for them?
Ans. No, the private candidates have to take the class 12 exam in the revised exam pattern in 2026.
What changes have been made to the CBSE Class 12th exam pattern for the 2025-26 session?
Ans. Major changes in CBSE class 12th exam pattern for the 2025-26 Session are as follows:
- More Competency-Based Questions
- Including more MCQ-based Questions
- Less Emphasis on Traditional Answer Types Questions
Marks Distribution for 100 Marks Paper
Here, we will discuss the marks distribution of the 80-mark theoretical paper. Let’s Check:
| Question Type | Assigned Marks | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| 40 Marks 2 MCQ Questions Mandatory | Easy to Moderate |
| MCQ-Based Direct Questions | 16 Marks | Easy |
| Short and LongAnswer Questions | 24 Marks Questions | Easy to Moderate |
CBSE Class 12 Maths: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
For CBSE Class 12 Maths, the theory part has a total weightage of 80 marks and the internal assessment is for 30 marks. Chapter-wise CBSE class 12 exam pattern and the marking scheme for Mathematics is explained below:
| Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Relations & Functions | 08 |
| Calculus | 35 |
| Algebra | 10 |
| Vectors & 3-Dimensional Geometry | 14 |
| Linear Programming | 05 |
| Probability | 08 |
CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern Maths
| Typology of Questions | Total Marks | % Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Remembering: Exhibit memory of previously learned material by recalling facts, terms, basic concepts, and answers. | 44 | 55 |
| Understanding: Demonstrate understanding of facts and ideas by organizing, comparing, translating, interpreting, giving descriptions, and stating main ideas | ||
| Applying: Solve problems to new situations by applying acquired knowledge, facts, techniques and rules in a different way. | 20 | 25 |
| Analysing: Examine and break information into parts by identifying motives or causes. Make inferences and find evidence to support generalizations | ||
| Evaluating: Present and defend opinions by making judgments about information, the validity of ideas, or the quality of work based on a set of criteria. | 16 | 20 |
| Creating: Compile information together in a different way by combining elements in a new pattern or proposing alternative solutions | ||
| Total | 80 | 100 |
CBSE Class 12 Science Exam Pattern 2025-26
CBSE Class 12 Science subject-wise exam pattern 2025-26 along with the marks weightage is provided below.
CBSE Class 12 Physics: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
For CBSE Class 12 Physics, the theory part has a total weightage of 70 marks. The remaining 30 marks belong to the practicals. CBSE Class 12 Physics chapter-wise exam pattern and the marking scheme are explained below.
| Topics | Marks |
|---|---|
| Unit 1: Electrostatics Unit 2: Current Electricity | 16 |
| Unit 3: Magnetic Effects of Current & Magnetism Unit 4: Electromagnetic Induction & Alternating Currents | 17 |
| Unit 5: Electromagnetic Waves Unit 6: Optics | 18 |
| Unit 7: Dual Nature of Radiation & Matter Unit 8: Atoms & Nuclei | 12 |
| Unit 9: Electronic Devices | 7 |
| Practicals | |
| 2 experiments 1 from each section | 7+7 |
| Practical record | 5 |
| 1 activity from any section | 3 |
| Investigatory project | 3 |
| Viva | 5 |
CBSE Class 12 Chemistry: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
For Chemistry, the theory part has a total weightage of 70 marks. The remaining 30 marks are assigned to the practicals. The table below contains CBSE class 12 exam pattern for Class 12 Chemistry chapters and the marking scheme.
| Topics | Marks |
|---|---|
| Solutions | 7 |
| Electrochemistry | 9 |
| Chemical Kinetics | 7 |
| d -and f- block elements | 7 |
| Coordination Compounds | 7 |
| Haloalkaline s & Haloarnes | 6 |
| Alcohol, Phenols & Ethers | 6 |
| Aldehydes, Ketones & Carboxylic Acids | 8 |
| Amines | 6 |
| Biomolecules | 7 |
| Practicals | |
| Volumetric Analysis | 8 |
| Salt Analysis | 8 |
| Content-Based Experiment | 6 |
| Project | 4 |
| Class record & viva | 4 |
CBSE Class 12 Biology: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
For CBSE Class 12 Biology, the theory part has a total weightage of 70 marks and practicals constitute of the remaining 30 marks.
| Topics | Marks |
|---|---|
| Reproduction | 16 |
| Genetics & Evolution | 20 |
| Biology & Human Welfare | 12 |
| Biotechnology & its Applications | 12 |
| Ecology & Environment | 10 |
| Practical | |
| 1 major experiment | 5 |
| 1 minor experiment | 4 |
| Slide preparation | 5 |
| Spotting | 7 |
| Practical record + viva voce | 4 |
| Project record + viva voce | 5 |
CBSE Class 12 Accountancy: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The theory part has a total weightage of 80 marks which are divided into Part A: 60 marks & Part B: 20 marks. The practical part has a total weightage of 20 marks which comes under Part C. Accountancy chapter-wise class 12 exam pattern and the marking scheme according to the topics is as follows:
| Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Part A: Accounting for Partnership Firms & Companies | |
| Unit 1: Accounting for Partnership Firms Unit 2: Accounting for Companies | 36 24 |
| Part B: Financial Statement Analysis | |
| Unit 3: Analysis of Financial Statements Unit 4: Cash Flow Statement | 12 08 |
| OR | |
| Part B: Computerised Accounting | 20 |
| Part C: Project work which includes: Project file Written test (1 hour) Viva voce | 04 12 04 |
CBSE Class 12 Business Studies: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The theory section is divided into 2 parts carrying 40 marks each. The remaining 20 marks come under the project work. For Business Studies, the chapter-wise exam pattern and the marking scheme according to the topics are shown below.
| Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Part A: Principles & Function of Management | |
| 16 |
| 14 |
| 20 |
| Part B: Business Finance & Marketing | |
| 15 |
| 15 |
| Project | 20 |
CBSE Class 12 Economics: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The theory part has a total weightage of 80 marks which are equally divided into 2 parts. The practical part has a total weightage of 20 marks.
| Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Part A: Introductory Macroeconomics | |
| 10 06 12 06 06 |
| Part B: Indian Economic Development | |
| 28 50 12 |
| Project | 20 |
CBSE Class 12 English: Chapter-Wise Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
CBSE Class 12 English paper contains sections for reading skills, creative writing, literature, and assessments. The marks contained in each section are mentioned below:
| Topics | Marks |
|---|---|
| Reading Skills | 20 |
| Creative Writing Skills | 20 |
| Literature Textbooks & Supplementary Reading Texts | 40 |
| Assessment of Listening & Speaking Skills | 10 |
| Internal assessment | 20 |
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Chapter-wise weightageCBSE Class 12 Chapter-wise weightage
CBSE Class 12 Science Chapter Wise Weightage
| CBSE Class 12 Science Chapters | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Electrostatics, Current Electricity | 16 |
| Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents | 17 |
| Electromagnetic Waves, Optics | 18 |
| Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter, Atoms and Nuclei | 12 |
| Electronic Devices | 7 |
| Total | 70 |
CBSE Class 12 Maths Chapter Wise Weightage
| CBSE Class 12 Maths Chapters | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Relations and Functions | 8 |
| Algebra | 10 |
| Calculus | 35 |
| Vectors and Three-Dimensional Geometry | 14 |
| Linear Programming | 5 |
| Probability | 8 |
| Total | 80 |
| Internal Assessment | 20 |
CBSE Class 12 Biology Chapter Wise Weightage
| CBSE Class 12 Biology Chapters | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Reproduction | 16 |
| Genetics and Evolution | 20 |
| Biology and Human Welfare | 12 |
| Biotechnology and Its Applications | 12 |
| Ecology and Environment | 10 |
CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Chapter Wise Weightage
| CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Chapters | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Solutions | 7 |
| Electrochemistry | 9 |
| Chemical Kinetics | 7 |
| d -and f -Block Elements | 7 |
| Coordination Compounds | 7 |
| Haloalkanes and Haloarenes | 6 |
| Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers | 6 |
| Aldehydes, Ketones, and Carboxylic Acids | 8 |
| Amines | 6 |
| Biomolecules | 7 |
| Total | 70 |
CBSE Class 12 Preparation Tips
Here are some tips that can help students prepare effectively for their CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026:
- Make a study plan and stick to it. Break down the syllabus into smaller parts and allocate sufficient time to each section.
- Prioritize your studies based on the weightage of each chapter in the syllabus.
- Focus more on the chapters that carry higher marks.
- Solving previous year's question papers will help students understand the exam pattern, and types of questions asked, and improve their time management skills.
- Practice Sample Papers
- Take regular breaks between study sessions to relax and rejuvenate. This will help improve focus and concentration.
- Revise regularly to reinforce concepts and information.
- Create notes and revise them frequently.
- Take care of your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. This will help in reducing stress levels and improving concentration.
- Don't hesitate to seek help from your teachers, mentors, or peers. They can offer valuable guidance and support.
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CBSE Class 12th Preparation TipsAlso Check:
FAQs for CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2026
Ques. Will there be board exams in 2026 for Class 12?
Ans. Yes, the CBSE Board Exam 2026 will be conducted as per the annual calendar.
More than 21 lakh candidates appear in the board every year, and the CBSE 2026 Exam will follow the competency-based exam pattern.
Ques. Has CBSE released the syllabus for Class 12 2026?
Ans. The Syllabus for CBSE Class 12th 2026 has been released on the official CBSE Website. In the syllabus, around 60-70% of the weightage will be given to NCERT questions.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Year | 2025–26 |
| Basis of Syllabus | NCERT |
| Reduction | 25% (similar to previous years) |
| Streams Covered | Science, Commerce, Arts |
Ques. Is the 2026 board exam easy or hard for Class 12?
Ans. The CBSE Class 12th Board Exam 2026 is expected to be of a moderate difficulty level, including 50% competency-based questions and 50% theory-based.
The exam will test candidates' application, reasoning, and analytical skills.
Ques. Will the syllabus change in 2026?
Ans. Yes, the CBSE Class 12th Syllabus 2026 has been changed with around 25% reduction across Science, Commerce, and Arts.
CBSE Class 12 Deleted/Reduced Syllabus 2026
| Stream / Subject | Topics Deleted / Reduced (2026) |
|---|---|
| Physics | Communication Systems (Unit), Certain experiments from the Practical syllabus |
| Chemistry | Polymers, Chemistry in Everyday Life (partially reduced) |
| Mathematics | Linear Programming (full), Probability (partially reduced) |
| Biology | Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production, Ecology (partially reduced) |
| Accountancy | Cash Flow (simplified), Some company accounts sub-topics |
| Business Studies | Consumer Protection (partially), Some case studies reduced |
| Economics | Entire Development Experience (1947–90) removed, Some portions of Indian Economy after 1991 |
| History / Pol. Science | Some chapters from Contemporary World Politics & Themes in Indian History |
| English | Selected poems and supplementary readings reduced |
Ques. What is the Best of 5 Rule in the CBSE Exam?
Ans. The CBSE Exam will follow the best of 5 rule, which allows candidates to calculate their percentage based on the top 5 subjects.
For Example: If a candidate appears in 6 subjects, only the best 5 exam scores will be considered for percentage calculation.
Ques. What are the board exam reforms for CBSE in 2026?
Ans. The CBSE Board Exam 2026 includes changes according to NEP 2020:
- 50% of the competency-based questions (MCQs, case/source-based)
- NCERT-Based Syllabus
- Increased weightage for application-oriented learning
- Internal assessments made more structured (20 marks)
- Introduction of AI tools & digital evaluation systems for accuracy
Ques. Is CBSE class 12 total marks 500 or 600 Science?
Ans. As per the CBSE class 12 curriculum, the CBSE pattern is designed to allow candidates to appear for 6 subjects, but the CBSE class 12 exam percentage will be calculated based on the best of 5 subjects. For each subject, students can score a maximum of 100 marks, and for 5 subjects, the maximum marks are 500. So, CBSE class 12 total marks are 500.
Ques. Is CBSE 12 best of 4 or 5?
Ans. As per the CBSE class 12 curriculum released by CBSE on the official website, CBSE considers the best of 5 for the CBSE class 12 examination.
Ques. How to calculate 12th percentage in 6 subjects?
Ans. Students can calculate CBSE class 12 percentage of 6 subjects by dividing the total marks obtained in CBSE class 12 by the maximum marks in 6 subjects in CBSE 12th. Now, multiply the result by 100 to get the CBSE class 12th percentage.
Ques. How is CBSE percentage calculated?
Ans. Students can calculate CBSE class 12 percentage by dividing the total marks obtained in CBSE class 12 by the maximum marks in CBSE 12th. Now, multiply the result by 100 to get the CBSE class 12th percentage.
Ques. What is the best 5 rule of CBSE?
Ans. CBSE best 5 rule allows a candidate to take 6 subjects to appear for CBSE class 12 exam. After appearing for all 6 papers, students will get their percentage calculated based on 5 subjects in which they have scored higher than the 6th subject.
Ques. Is 90% A1 or A2 in CBSE?
Ans. According to the CBSE class 12 grading system, aspirants will get A2 grade for 90% marks in CBSE 12th. To get an A1 grade in CBSE 12th, candidates must score 91-100% marks.
Ques. Does CBSE repeat questions?
Ans. Yes, CBSE often repeats questions in BOARD examinations. Students are advised to solve previous years’ CBSE 12th question papers to boost their preparation and know the pattern of examination.
Ques. What are passing marks out of 80 in CBSE class 12?
Ans. According to CBSE class 12 scheme of examination, aspirants must score a minimum of 33% marks to pass the examination. Out of 80 marks, students must score a minimum of 26 marks to pass CBSE class 12 exam.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
Comments
Found 2 Comments
CBSE class 12th exam pattern consists of the remaining 50 percent syllabus apart from the term 1 syllabus. This term 2 paper will be of two hours and the questions are based on the different formats such as open-ended - short answer/long answer type, and case-based/ situation based. You can check the full syllabus in this article.
Yes, the patterns of term one and term two are different. CBSE class 12th exam pattern consists of the remaining 50 percent syllabus apart from the term 1 syllabus. This term 2 paper will be of two hours and the questions are based on the different formats such as open-ended - short answer/long answer type, and case-based/ situation based.