The CBSE Class 10 Science exam for 2026 is rapidly approaching. According to the official schedule released by CBSE, the Class 10 Science exam will take place on February 25, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, as part of the initial phase of board examinations, which runs from February 17 to March 9, 2026. For students aiming to improve their scores or who need to reappear, a second phase is tentatively planned for May 2026.
To help students prepare thoroughly, CBSE offers the official syllabus, marking scheme, and sample question papers. These invaluable resources are designed to help you understand what material to study, how marks are allocated, and the types of questions you can expect. All these essential materials are readily available on the official CBSE websites.
CBSE 10th Science Exam Pattern
The CBSE Science exam is structured for a total of 100 marks, comprising 80 marks for the theory paper and 20 marks for internal assessment.
Unit-wise Marks Distribution
| Unit | Topics | Marks |
| I | Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour | 25 |
| II | World of Living | 25 |
| III | Natural Phenomena | 12 |
| IV | Effects of Current | 13 |
| V | Natural Resources | 5 |
Theory Paper (80 Marks)
- Includes objective questions, short answers, and long answers.
- Tests your understanding of concepts, application skills, and problem-solving ability.
Internal Assessment (20 Marks)
- Includes practical experiments, project work, and notebook submission.
- Focuses on observational skills, accurate recording, and scientific reasoning.
CBSE Class 10 Science Syllabus Overview
The 2025-26 syllabus is carefully crafted to cover all major concepts across Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. It is systematically divided into five thematic units:
1. Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour
This unit delves into the fundamental concepts of elements, compounds, and mixtures, along with their properties and classifications. Students will explore various types of chemical reactions and how to observe them. Topics also include acids, bases, and salts, as well as the characteristics of metals and non-metals. An introduction to chemical bonding and molecules completes this unit, providing a solid foundation for understanding how substances interact at the molecular level.
2. World of Living
The World of Living unit focuses on essential life processes such as nutrition, respiration, transportation, and excretion in both plants and animals. It explores the structure and functions of different organisms and introduces key aspects of human biology, including digestion, circulation, and reproduction. The unit also highlights ecosystems, how organisms adapt to their environment, and the diversity and classification of life forms.
3. Natural Phenomena
In this unit, students investigate the behavior of light and sound and their practical applications in daily life. Topics include reflection and refraction of light, lenses, the human eye, the propagation of sound, and the concepts of pitch and frequency. This unit also covers other physical phenomena, such as magnetism and motion, allowing students to connect theoretical concepts with their everyday experiences.
4. Effects of Current
This unit covers electricity and its various applications. Students will learn about electric current, voltage, and resistance, alongside Ohm’s law and its practical uses. The construction and analysis of series and parallel circuits are explained, along with the heating and magnetic effects of electric current. The unit emphasizes the importance of electricity in daily life and promotes safe and effective applications.
5. Natural Resources
The final unit concentrates on the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources, including water, soil, and forests. Students will learn about different types of pollution, their causes, and effective methods for managing them. This unit also emphasizes the critical role humans play in protecting the environment and fostering sustainability for future generations.
CBSE Class 10 Science Sample Paper and Marking Scheme
To aid in their preparation, students can access and download the official sample question paper and marking scheme released by CBSE by visiting the official CBSE academic website. These resources provide a detailed blueprint of the upcoming examination.
How Sample Papers and Marking Schemes Can Help
CBSE provides sample question papers and marking schemes to give students a clear understanding of the exam patterns and the weightage assigned to different topics. By diligently practicing with these materials:
- Students can familiarize themselves with various types of questions.
- They can identify high-mark topics, allowing for more focused preparation.
- Students can understand precisely how marks are awarded for each answer, helping them optimize their responses.
All these essential resources are freely available on the official CBSE website, empowering students to plan and execute their preparation efficiently and confidently.