CBSE 12th Exam Pattern 2026 (Latest): Check Subject-wise Marking Scheme

obtaining the photocopy of scanned answer scripts

20 May '26 - 23 May '26

Updated on Feb 20, 2026 16:45 IST

By Anangsha Patra, Deputy Manager – Editorial

Overview

CBSE 12th Exam Pattern 2026: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced on screen marking for the evaluation of CBSE 12th answer sheets of students. The exam pattern is prescribed by the examination authority. CBSE 12th exam pattern 2026 shares the marking scheme, types of questions asked in the exam, difficulty level, and more. Students must be thorough with the exam pattern of CBSE 12th 2026 in order to know the overall exam structure. Read below for more details on CBSE Class 12 exam pattern.

Also Read: CBSE12th Answer Key 2026 PDF

Table of contents

CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2026
Subject-wise Marking Scheme for Class 12 CBSE 2026
CBSE Class 12 Maths exam pattern 2026
CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE Class 12 Biology Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE Class 12 Accountancy Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE 12th Business Studies Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE Class 12 Economics Exam Pattern 2026
CBSE Class 12 English (Core) Exam Pattern 2026
Passing Marks in CBSE Class 12 2026
FAQs on CBSE 12th Exam Pattern 2026

CBSE Class 12 Exam Pattern 2026

CBSE Class 12th exam pattern 2026 includes 50% competency-based questions (MCQs, case-based, source-based), 20% select-response type questions (MCQs), and 30% constructed response questions (short/long answers). This makes the total to 100%. This emphasis is on concept understanding and application over memorization, to test students' real-life application of learning. The total marks of each subject is 100, with 80 marks for theory and 20 for practical/internal assessment. Students need to score a minimum of 33% in each subject and in aggregate to clear the exams. In the Accountancy subject, there will be no answer books wherein tables were provided. The highlights related to CBSE Class 12th exam pattern is given below.

Particulars	Details
Conducting Body	Central Board of Secondary Education
Question Paper Pattern	MCQs - 20% Competency-based questions (MCQs, case-based, source-based) - 50% Short answer/long answer type questions- 30%
Duration	3 hours
Mode	Offline
Number of subjects	5 or 6 (as elected by the student)
Maximum Marks	100 (theory + practical) 80 marks theory + 20 marks Project works for Commerce subjects (Accountancy, Business Studies & Economics) 70 marks theory +30 marks practical for Physics, Chemistry & Biology 80 marks Maths written exam + 20 marks internal assessment
Passing marks for each subject	33%
Passing marks for the overall exam	Aggregate 33%

Commonly asked questions

Q: Does CBSE cut marks for exceeding the word limit?

No, CBSE does not deduct marks for exceeding the word limit in the board exams. However, marks may be deducted for spelling mistakes and other errors in language papers.

Q: What are the changes introduced in CBSE 12th Accounts exam pattern?

In the Accountancy subject, the CBSE Board has decided to do away with the answer books wherein tables were provided for the subject of Accountancy.

Subject-wise Marking Scheme for Class 12 CBSE 2026

The exam pattern and marking scheme of CBSE 12th 2026 of all subjects are given in the following table. Students can download them by clicking on the subject name below. The CBSE 12th marking scheme 2026 provides answers to all the questions mentioned in the CBSE sample papers for 2026. To download the subject-wise CBSE 12th sample papers, students can click on the Question Papers/Sample Papers tab above.

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Students can download the CBSE 12th marking scheme 2026 for all subjects below:

Accountancy	Home Science
Assamese	Informatics Practices
Arabic	Japanese
Bengali	Kannada
Bharatnatyam	Kashmiri
Bhutia	Kathak
Bhoti
Biology	Kathakali
Biotechnology	Kuchipudi
Bodo	Legal Studies
Business Studies	Lepcha
Carnatic Melodic	Limboo
Carnatic Percussion	Malayalam
Carnatic Vocal	Manipuri
Chemistry	Marathi
Computer Science	Applied Arts (Commercial arts)
Dance Manipuri	Applied Mathematics
Dance Odissi	Mathematics
Economics	Mizo
Engg Graphics	NCC
English Core	Nepali
English Elective	Kokborok
Entrepreneurship	KTPI
French	Odia
Geography	Painting
German	Graphic
Gujarati	Sculpture
Hindi Elective	Urdu Core
Hindi Core	Physical Education
History	Physics
Hindustani Music (melodic)	Political Science
Hindustani Music (percussion)	Psychology
Hindustani Music (vocal)	Punjabi
Russian	Sanskrit Elective
Sindhi	Tamil
Sociology	Tangkhul
Spanish	Telugu (AP)
Sanskrit Core	Telugu Telangana
Tibetan	Urdu Elective

Commonly asked questions

Q: When will CBSE 12th Syllabus release?

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) released the CBSE class 12 syllabus 2025-26 on its official website. Students can find and download the syllabus of Class 12 CBSE 2025-26 below for all subjects. Download and start studying for the board examinations. It is adviced that students finish their CBSE 12th syllabus 2026 for all subjects at least 2 months prior to the exam to score well.

Q: Where can I check and download CBSE Exam Pattern Class 10, 12?

CBSE will release the CBSE 10th, 12th exam pattern 2026 on the official website soon. The exam pattern shares the marking scheme, weightage to every topic, duration of exam and more. Students must know the CBSE exam pattern as this helps them form a strategy and to decide which question to solve first. To know the CBSE exams pattern 2026, students can click on the links below-

CBSE 10th Exam Pattern 2026

CBSE 12th Exam Pattern 2026

CBSE Class 12 Maths exam pattern 2026

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
Total	80
Internal Assessment	20

Also Read:

Commonly asked questions

Q: What is the detailed CBSE 12th Maths Exam pattern?

Here's the chapter-wise distribution of marks in CBSE 12th 2026. Students can click on the link provided to download the complete CBSE 12th Maths Exam pattern 2026.

Topic	Marks
Relations & Functions	08
Calculus	35
Algebra	10
Vectors & 3-Dimensional Geometry	14
Linear Programming	05
Probability	08

Q: Are questions from previous year asked in CBSE 12th boards?

Not exactly the same, but, CBSE can ask questions similar to what were asked in the previous years of CBSE 12th exams. Thus, you are advised to download and practice the previous years' question papers thoroughly for better preparation.

CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam Pattern 2026

CBSE Class 12 Science subject-wise exam pattern 2026 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.

Unit	Topics	Marks
Unit-1 Electrostatics	Chapter 1: Electric Charges and Fields Chapter 2: Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance	16
Unit-2 Current Electricity	Chapter 3: Current Electricity	16
Unit-3 Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism	Chapter 4: Moving Charges and Magnetism Chapter 5: Magnetism and Matter	17
Unit-4 Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents	Chapter 6: Electromagnetic Induction Chapter 7: Alternating Current	17
Unit-5 Electromagnetic Waves	Chapter–8: Electromagnetic Waves	18
Unit-6 Optics	Chapter–9: Ray Optics and Optical Instruments Chapter–10: Wave Optics	18
Unit-7 Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter	Chapter–11: Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter	12
Unit-8 Atoms and Nuclei	Chapter–12: Atoms Chapter–13: Nuclei	12
Unit-9 Electronic Devices	Chapter 7 –14: Semiconductor Electronics: Materials, Devices and Simple Circuits	7
Practicals: The record to be submitted by the students at the time of their annual examination has to include: Record of at least 8 Experiments [with 4 from each section], to be performed by the students. Record of at least 6 Activities [with 3 each from section A and section B], to be performed by the students. The Report of the project carried out by the students.
2 experiments 1 from each section		7+7
Practical record		5
1 activity from any section		3
Investigatory project		3
Viva		5
Total		30

Commonly asked questions

Q: Can we attempt questions in any sequence in CBSE board class 12 question paper?

Yes, you can attempt questions in any sequence in CBSE board class 12. Just ensure that while attempting your CBSE board exam that you have attempted all the question with a question number written in such a way that examiner can see it properly. And in order to get good marks, it is important to make an impression which can be made by attempting those questions first that you know well. Thus, if you know question no. 12, then instead of 1, 2, attempt those question that you remember properly.

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026

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
Theory
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
Total	70
Practicals
Volumetric Analysis	8
Salt Analysis	8
Content-Based Experiment	6
Project	4
Class record & viva	4
Total	30

CBSE Class 12 Biology Exam Pattern 2026

For CBSE Class 12 Biology the theory part has a total weightage of 70 marks and Practicals constitute of the remaining 30 marks. It is explained below in tabular form CBSE Class 12 Biology chapter-wise exam pattern and the marking scheme.

Topics	Marks
Theory
Reproduction	16
Genetics & Evolution	20
Biology & Human Welfare	12
Biotechnology & its Applications	12
Ecology & Environment	10
Total	70
Practical
1 major experiment	5
1 minor experiment	4
Slide preparation	5
Spotting	7
Practical record + viva voce	4
Investigatory Project and its Project Record + Viva Voce	5
Total	30

CBSE Class 12 Accountancy Exam Pattern 2026

The Theory part is of 80 marks, which are divided into Part A: 60 marks & Part B: 20 marks. The project is of 20 marks, which comes under Part C. Chapter-wise Accountancy exam pattern and the marking scheme according to 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
	60
Part B: Financial Statement Analysis
Unit 3: Analysis of Financial Statements Unit 4: Cash Flow Statement	12 08
	20
Part C: Project work, which includes: Project file Viva voce	12 08
OR
Part B: Computerised Accounting
Unit 4. Computerized Accounting	20
Part C: Practical Work, which includes: Practical File 12 marks Viva Voce 8 marks	20

CBSE 12th Business Studies Exam Pattern 2026

The theory section is divided into 2 parts, carrying 40 marks each. The remaining 20 marks fall under the project work. The Business Studies chapter-wise exam pattern and the marking scheme according to the topics are provided below.

Topic	Marks
Part A: Principles & Function of Management
Nature & Significance of Management Principles of Management Business Environment	16
Planning Organising	14
Staffing Directing Controlling	20
Total	50
Part B: Business Finance & Marketing
Financial Management Financial Markets	15
Marketing Management Consumer Protection	15
Total	30
Project Work (One)	20

CBSE Class 12 Economics Exam Pattern 2026

The theory part has a total weightage of 80 marks, which is equally divided into 2 parts. The Practical part has a total weightage of 20 marks. For Class 12 Economics, the chapter-wise CBSE class 12 exam pattern and the marking scheme according to the topics are as follows:

Topic	Marks
Part A: Introductory Macroeconomics
National Income & Related Aggregate Money & Banking Determination of Income & Employment Government Budget & Economy Balance of Payments	10 06 12 06 06
Total	40
Part B: Indian Economic Development
Development Experience (1947-90) & Economic Reforms since 1991 Current Challenges facing the Indian Economy Development Experience of India- A Comparison with Neighbors	12 20 08
Total	40
Part C: Project	20

CBSE Class 12 English (Core) Exam Pattern 2026

The class 12 English paper contains sections for reading skills, creative writing, literature, and assessments. The marks contained by each section are mentioned below:

Topics	Marks
Reading Skills	26
Grammar and Creative Writing Skills	23
Literature Text Book and Supplementary Reading Text	31
Total	80
Internal Assessment - Assessment of Listening + Speaking Skills (5+5)	10
Project work	10
Grand Total	100

Passing Marks in CBSE Class 12 2026

The passing marks out of 70 in CBSE Class 12 is 33%. In a subject involving practical work, candidates must obtain 33 per cent in the Theory paper and 33% in practical separately. For awarding the grades, the Board place all the passed students in a rank order and award grades as follows :

A-1 Top 1/8th of the passed candidates
A-2 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
B-1 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
B-2 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
C-1 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
C-2 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
D-1 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
D-2 Next 1/8th of the passed candidates
E Failed candidates

Commonly asked questions

Q: What is CBSE Class 12th marking scheme?

CBSE 12th marking scheme for is such that 80 marks are allotted for Theory and 20 marks for Internal Assessment. The marking scheme for Science subjects have 70 marks and 30 for practicals.

Q: What are the maximum marks in CBSE 12th exam?

The maximum marks allotted in CBSE 12th exam are 500. Each subject carries 100 marks. Students can also take sixth subject, the final percentage is calculated using the best five subjects. 80/70 marks are allotted for Theory paper and 20/30 marks for internal assessment/practicals.

Q: How to resolve ties in CBSE 12th exam?

In case of a tie, all the students getting the same score and grade will be divided into two segments, the smaller segment will go with the larger. Method of grading will be used in subjects where the number of candidates who have passed is more than 500.

In respect of subjects where total number of candidates passing in a subject is less than 500, the grading would be adopted on the pattern of grading and distribution in other similar subjects.

FAQs on CBSE 12th Exam Pattern 2026

Students can check below the FAQs related to CBSE 12th exam pattern 2026-

Q: Will the CBSE 12th Board exams 2026 be based on 100% syllabus?

Yes, CBSE 12th exams 2026 will be based on 100% syllabus. Students can check the CBSE 12th syllabus 2026 by clicking on the link provided. Students must finish with their syllabus and know the exam pattern well at least a month prior to the exam. This way they'll be better prepared for the exams.

From 2020 to 2022, the Board had reduced the CBSE syllabus in the wake of Covid pandemic.

Q: Is CBSE Class 12th Board exam checking strict?

For Class 12th, it is considered to be strict. However, it is said that the checking done by evaluators is linient in comparison to the checking done by them in Class 9, 11 in their schools.

So, if u have covered the entire CBSE 12th syllabus and your preparation is on point, then you must not worry about the strict checking. Also, you can click on the link below to check the CBSE 12th important preparation points.

Top tips to score high in CBSE board exams

Top mistakes students make while preparing for CBSE 12th board exams

Q: What are the different streams offered by CBSE in Class 12?

CBSE offers three main streams in Class 12, namely Science, Commerce and Arts/Humanities.

Q: Does CBSE provide grace marks in the class 12 exam?

Yes, CBSE gives grace marks to those students who are unable to clear the exam by a maximum of 3 marks in the exam.

Q: Is it necessary to collect the original marksheet from the school after the release of the CBSE 12th result 2026?

Yes, you must collect your marksheet from school. This is an important doc and is required while applying for higher education and jobs

Q: Will we get sufficient time to prepare for our CBSE 12th examinations once they begin?

Yes, the board provides sufficient preparation leaves for you to prepare for the exams. Students are advised to finish their syllabus and practice the sample papers well ahead in time so as to avoid any panic situation once exams begin.

Q: What happens if you take leave in CBSE 12th board exam?

In case you're unable to attend a CBSE 12th board exam, you will be given zero marks in the subject. Soon, you will be asked to appear for the supplementary exam. Thus, it is better to focus and study hard and not skip or leave your exam to pass with flying colours.

Q: Can I cheat in CBSE 12th board exam?

CBSE board is strictly against the practice of using any unfair means during the examinations. The board is actively working to prevent and discourage any malpractice during board examinations every year.

So, you are advised to go through the CBSE 12th syllabus and solve as many previous years' question papers and sample papers to avoid cheating during the CBSE 12th board exams.

Q: What things are not allowed in CBSE 12th board exams?

Students must go through the points below to avoid the CBSE 12th board exam day hassles.

All communication devices like mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, headphones, pagers, fitness bands, cameras, etc., are barred from carrying to the examination hall.
Accessories like wallets, goggles, handbags, and purses are not to be carried.
Students must not forget to carry all the stationary items that are required to appear for the CBSE 12th board exams as sharing of stationary is not allowed
However, do not forget to carry your CBSE 12th admit card on all exam days
Students without the hall ticket will not be allowed to write their CBSE Class 12 board exams

Q: Can I use a scientific calculator in the CBSE 12th board exams?

NO. No type of calculators, mobile phones, or any technological gadget is allowed during CBSE exams. Any student caught carrying these will be barred from writing their exam.