CBSE introduces a defined exam format for Class 10 Science, SST papers for 2026 Boards onwards

With the 2026 board examinations approaching, the Central Board of Secondary Education has issued a circular regarding Class 10 Science and Social Science question papers with a more disciplined layout.

The circular has emphasized that assessment should be simplified by encouraging candidates to afford markers clear, systematic answers that minimize marking errors and reduce cross-script confusion.

Final datesheet and exam window announced

CBSE has also released an official date sheet for the 2026 board exams in Classes 10 and 12. Both streams start on February 17, 2026, while Class 10 concludes on March 10, 2026.

Pattern for Revised Class 10 Science

According to the new rules, the Class 10 Science paper shall be divided into three separately labelled sections:

Section A: Biology

Section B: Chemistry

Section C: Physics

Candidates are expected to strictly follow the sectional structure as they set out their answer books: they should divide and label each portion accordingly before beginning. All answers are to stay within the set spaces of every section, with mixing or answering outside such areas is not allowed.

New Format for Class 10 Social Science

Similarly, this Class 10 Social Science exam will be divided into four sections:

Section A: Background/History

Section B: Geography

Section C: Political Science

Section D: Economics

The students have to mark the correct answer sheets and keep each of their answers in the correct section. According to the board, misplacing an answer, such as placing a Geography answer in the History section, will not be evaluated.

Noncompliance carries serious penalties. It said the new guidelines, aimed at proper bifurcation of marks, are to be followed and any violation would affect evaluation. Answers written outside the designed parts will not be evaluated and such mistakes cannot be corrected during verification or re-evaluation. It said, "The evaluation scheme is final." Guidance for Schools and Students CBSE has suggested that schools regularly train the students for writing answers in section-divided answer sheets during regular tests, internal assessments, and pre-boards to avoid errors in examinations. Students can also be asked to download the latest sample papers from the CBSE academic website to acquaint themselves with the revised pattern. The board said that careful labeling, correct division of sections, and disciplined writing would lead to their correct evaluation.