Hey there, Class 10 students! Your official CBSE sample papers are here, and we are going to make sure you know exactly how to get them, use them smartly, and nail your board exams in February 2026. Let’s dive in!
CBSE Class 10 Sample Papers: Quick Download Links
Want to download your sample papers right now? Here are your official links. Click and download from the source itself.
| Subject | Download Link | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics (Standard) | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| Mathematics (Basic) | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| Science | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Available on site |
| Social Science | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| English Language & Literature | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| English Communicative | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| Hindi Course A | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| Hindi Course B | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| Computer Applications | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
| Information Technology | Visit cbseacademic.nic.in | Included with paper |
Official CBSE Portal: cbseacademic.nic.in
How to Download
Still confused? No worries. Follow these simple steps and you will have your papers in 2 minutes.
- Go to cbseacademic.nic.in in your web browser
- Look for “Sample Question Papers” on the homepage
- Click on it and select 2025-26 academic year
- Choose Class X (Class 10)
- Pick your subject from the list
- Click the Download PDF button
- Save the file to your computer or phone
That is it! Now you have both the question paper AND the marking scheme. Print them out or solve them on your computer.
Why These Papers?
Are these the real exam papers? No, but they are the closest thing to them. CBSE creates sample papers to show you exactly how your actual board exam will look.
Will my exam paper look like this? Yes, basically. The pattern, question types, difficulty level, and marking are all the same.
Can questions from sample papers come in my real exam? Not directly, but similar types will definitely appear. The topics and question styles are identical.
Should I solve ALL sample papers? Aim for at least 3 to 5 papers per subject. More is better if you have time.
Subject-Wise Paper Breakdown
Mathematics (Total 38 Questions)
Your Math paper is divided into 5 sections. Here is what to expect:
| Section | Questions | Mark per Qs | Type | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 1-20 | 1 | MCQ & Assertion-Reason | 20 |
| B | 21-25 | 2 | Very Short Answer (VSA) | 10 |
| C | 26-31 | 3 | Short Answer (SA) | 18 |
| D | 32-35 | 5 | Long Answer (LA) | 20 |
| E | 36-38 | 4 | Case Study Based | 12 |
Heads up: Two levels of Mathematics are available. Pick the right one:
- Standard Math: For students going to science stream in Class 11-12
- Basic Math: For those considering commerce, humanities, or other streams
Science (Total 39 Questions)
Science paper has three sections: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics combined in one paper.
| Section | Topic | Questions | Types of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Biology | 13 Qs | MCQ, VSA, SA, LA, Case Study |
| B | Chemistry | 13 Qs | MCQ, VSA, SA, LA, Case Study |
| C | Physics | 13 Qs | MCQ, VSA, SA, LA, Case Study |
Important: You get choices in some questions. Read carefully and pick the option you want to answer.
Social Science (Total 38 Questions)
Four subjects combined in one exam:
| Section | Subject | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| A | History | Events, timelines, causes, impacts |
| B | Geography | Maps, climate, resources, locations |
| C | Political Science | Constitution, governance, rights, duties |
| D | Economics | Resources, trade, money, development |
Must-do: Practice map-marking questions from Geography. They always appear!
English (Both Options Available)
Two options for English, depending on your school curriculum:
English Language & Literature:
- Reading comprehension (2 passages)
- Grammar and writing (letters, emails, articles, creative writing)
- Literature (stories, poems, chapters)
English Communicative:
- Same structure but focuses more on communication skills
- Practical writing like notices, advertisements, invitations
- Speaking and listening components covered
Also read:- Model Proforma for Income Certificate 2025-26: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Timeline: When Is Your Exam?
Mark these dates in your calendar:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Sample Papers Released | July 30, 2025 (Already out!) |
| Phase 1 Board Exams Start | February 17, 2026 |
| Phase 1 Board Exams End | March 11, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | By February 10, 2026 |
| Phase 2 Exams (Optional) | May 15 to June 1, 2026 |
The New Dual Exam System
Big news: CBSE introduced a new two-phase exam system for 2026.
What is Phase 1?
- Mandatory for ALL students
- Held February 17 to March 11, 2026
- Your marks count toward your final result
- You must take this phase no matter what
What is Phase 2?
- Completely optional
- Held May 15 to June 1, 2026
- Only if you want to improve scores in up to 3 subjects
- You can retake subjects where you scored lower
What does this mean for your preparation?
- Prepare as if Phase 1 is your only chance
- Aim to do your best in February-March itself
- Do not rely on Phase 2 as a backup plan
- Use sample papers to ensure Phase 1 success
Smart Practice Strategy
Just downloading is not enough. Here is how to make these papers count:
Week 1-2: Get Familiar
- Download all subject papers
- Read through one full paper without solving
- Look at the marking scheme
- Notice question types, format, and style
- Get comfortable with how the exam will look
Week 3-4: First Attempt
- Sit in a quiet room
- Set a timer for exactly 3 hours
- Close all books, notes, phones
- Solve the complete paper in one sitting
- Do not cheat or check answers mid-way
Week 5-6: Detailed Analysis
- Score yourself using the marking scheme
- Find EVERY mistake
- Ask yourself: Why did I get this wrong?
- Did not understand the concept?
- Made a silly calculation mistake?
- Did not read the question properly?
- Ran out of time?
- Did not know the format expected?
- Make notes of these mistakes
Week 7-8: Targeted Improvement
- Go back to your textbook for topics you missed
- Practice more questions from that topic
- Solve another paper and check if you improved
- Track which questions gave you trouble
Ongoing: Repeat 3-5 Times
Solve at least 3 to 5 sample papers per subject before the actual exam. More papers mean more practice and higher confidence.
Common Questions You Have Right Now
1. Can I download sample papers on my phone?
Yes! Visit cbseacademic.nic.in on your mobile browser, download the PDF, and you can read it on any device.
2. Are sample papers free?
100% free. No hidden charges, no registration needed. Just download from the official website.
3. Which sample paper should I solve first?
Start with your strongest subject to build confidence. Then move to weaker subjects.
4. Can I solve only 1 or 2 papers?
You can, but 3 to 5 per subject is much better. Each paper shows you new question types and builds your speed.
5. Will the actual exam paper look different?
No. The pattern, format, question types, and marking are identical. Sample papers = Real exam blueprint.
6. What if I score poorly on a sample paper?
Good news! You are discovering weak areas NOW, not on exam day. Use this time to improve.
7. Should I memorize sample papers?
No! Understand the concepts. Sample papers show you HOW to apply knowledge, not just facts to memorize.
8. When should I start solving sample papers?
After you have completed your syllabus. Do not start too early, but do not wait until January either.
What Makes These Papers So Important?
Reason 1: Know Your Enemy
When you solve a sample paper, you are literally practicing the same type of exam you will take. No surprises on exam day.
Reason 2: Spot Your Weak Spots
You discover which topics trouble you. Then you can focus extra study time there.
Reason 3: Build Speed and Accuracy
Three hours goes fast when you are solving 38-40 questions. Practice teaches you to manage time and answer smartly.
Reason 4: Understand Marking Scheme
The marking scheme shows you how CBSE expects answers to be written. Your answers should match this style.
Reason 5: Boost Confidence
The more papers you solve, the more confident you become. On exam day, you walk in feeling prepared.
Reason 6: Learn Question Variety
CBSE creates different versions of similar questions. By solving multiple papers, you see all variations.
Also read:- UPSC EPFO Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2026: Complete Topic-Wise Guide
Subject-Specific Tips from These Papers
For Mathematics
- Study the case study questions carefully. These test real-world application.
- Diagrams and rough work get marks even if final answer is wrong. Show all steps.
- Calculators are NOT allowed. Practice mental math and basic calculations.
- Geometry problems require accurate diagrams. Practice using ruler and compass.
- Assertions and reasoning questions need both statements to be true. Read carefully.
For Science
- Biology questions test concepts like photosynthesis, digestion, reproduction. Understand, do not memorize.
- Chemistry needs balanced equations. Practice writing chemical reactions. Learn the rules.
- Physics is heavy on formulas and numerical problems. Memorize key formulas and practice calculations.
- Always draw diagrams in Bio and Physics. Label them clearly.
- In practical questions, explain what would happen and WHY.
For Social Science
- Geography map work is crucial. Practice marking capitals, rivers, borders on outline maps.
- History questions ask for reasons and impacts, not just dates. Explain the cause and effect.
- Political Science needs your understanding of the Constitution. Learn core concepts like fundamental rights.
- Economics questions connect to real life. Understand how money, trade, and jobs work.
- Answer questions in complete sentences, not point form.
For English
- Reading comprehension: Read the passage first, THEN read questions. Answer from the passage only.
- Grammar: Memorize rules for tenses, articles, prepositions, pronouns. Practice is the only way.
- Writing tasks (letter, email, article, creative writing): Follow the format given in sample papers exactly.
- Literature: Do not just summarize. Analyze character actions, explain motivations, discuss themes.
- Time management: Spend 15 minutes on comprehension, 30 minutes on grammar, 75 minutes on writing.
For Hindi
- Writing section has strict word limits and format. Sample papers show you exactly what is expected.
- Literature questions test your analysis of poems, stories, and chapters. Read between the lines.
- Grammar rules are important. Practice using correct tenses and vocabulary.
- Answer in Hindi only. Do not mix English words.
- Practice writing in proper Hindi script if your school uses it.
Your 3-Month Countdown Plan
December 2025: Complete the Syllabus
- Study from NCERT textbooks
- Take notes on important concepts
- Do chapter-end questions from your textbook
- Do NOT solve full sample papers yet
- Your goal: Finish ALL topics by end of December
January 2026: Practice Consistently
- Solve 1 complete sample paper per week per subject
- After each paper, spend 2-3 days analyzing mistakes
- Go back to concepts you missed
- Create a notebook of formulas, dates, definitions
- Solve 3 to 4 papers per subject by January end
- Your goal: Build speed and identify weak areas
February-Early March 2026: Final Revision & Exams
- Solve remaining sample papers
- Revise using your mistake notes
- Do one timed mock test (full sample paper) a week
- Focus on weak topics
- Exam days: Sit confidently, use what you learned
Mistakes Students Make (Do NOT Do These!)
Mistake 1: Download papers but never solve them.
- Fix: Create a schedule and solve them regularly.
Mistake 2: Solve papers but ignore mistakes.
- Fix: Spend time analyzing every wrong answer.
Mistake 3: Solve only papers from strong subjects.
- Fix: Solve weak subjects more to improve them.
Mistake 4: Solve papers with open books and notes.
- Fix: Simulate real exam conditions. No cheating allowed.
Mistake 5: Solve without a timer.
- Fix: Always solve with a 3-hour timer to practice time management.
Mistake 6: Memorize sample papers instead of learning concepts.
- Fix: Understand WHY answers are correct, not just what the answer is.
Mistake 7: Start solving papers too late (January only).
- Fix: Begin in December after completing syllabus.
Mistake 8: Rely only on sample papers for study.
- Fix: Use textbooks + sample papers together.
Beyond Sample Papers
Sample papers are important, but not enough alone. Also do:
From NCERT:
- Read all chapters carefully
- Solve chapter-end questions
- Answer in-text questions
- Make summary notes for each chapter
From Your School:
- Attend classes regularly
- Take good notes
- Complete homework
- Ask teachers to clarify doubts
From Your Brain:
- Understand concepts deeply
- Do not memorize blindly
- Connect topics to real life
- Explain concepts to friends (teaches you better)
Quick Checklist
Print this and tick off as you go:
- Downloaded all subject sample papers from cbseacademic.nic.in
- Printed or saved papers to your device
- Read through one complete paper to see format
- Completed your entire syllabus from NCERT
- Solved your first full sample paper under exam conditions
- Scored and analyzed your mistakes
- Made notes on weak topics
- Studied weak topics from textbook
- Solved second sample paper and improved
- Solved 3 to 5 papers per subject
- Practiced map-marking (if Social Science student)
- Practiced diagram drawing (if Science student)
- Reviewed marking scheme for all subjects
- Done final revision using mistake notes
- Received admit card and verified information
Your Final Reality Check
Here is the truth: Your board exam is not trying to trick you. CBSE wants you to succeed. Sample papers prove this. They show you exactly what to expect.
The students who score high are not necessarily the smartest. They are the ones who:
- Downloaded and solved sample papers seriously
- Analyzed every mistake they made
- Improved weak areas before the exam
- Practiced time management
- Felt confident walking into the exam hall
You are reading this, which means you are already serious about preparation. That is your first win!
Here is what happens next:
- Download your sample papers TODAY (they are free and official)
- Solve your first paper THIS WEEK
- Analyze your mistakes THIS MONTH
- Keep improving through January and February
- Walk into your exam in February 2026 feeling absolutely ready
You have got this. Thousands of students before you passed these exams. You will too. Make these sample papers your best friend during these months, and success will follow.
Important Links (Save These!)
- Official CBSE Site: cbse.gov.in
- Sample Papers Portal: cbseacademic.nic.in
- NCERT Books: ncert.nic.in
- Ask Your Teacher: Your school portal or offline classes
One Last Thing
Preparing for board exams is tough, but manageable. You have the right tools in front of you (sample papers). You have the right time frame (4 months). You have the right guidance (your teachers and this article).
The only missing ingredient is YOUR effort. But since you are reading this, you already have that too.
Download those papers. Solve them. Learn from them. Trust the process. You will absolutely crush these exams in February 2026.
Good luck, Class 10 warriors. We believe in you!