CBSE Class 10 Science Exam 2026: Big Changes Students Must Know

The CBSE Class 10 Science exam 2026 was conducted today from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm across the country. Over 25 lakh students appeared. The paper followed a new pattern with three clear sections, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The theory exam was for 80 marks with 39 compulsory questions. Students also got 15 minutes extra reading time before writing.

New Science Paper Pattern Explained

This year brought a major change. The Science paper is now divided equally into Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Each section carries balanced weightage. This ensures no single subject dominates the paper.

There were MCQs, assertion-reason questions, short answers, long answers, and case-based questions. The structure tested concepts, not just memory. Students had to think properly, not rush.

The 15-minute reading time helped many. It allowed planning answers calmly. That small window actually matters a lot.

Passing Marks And Rules

To pass the CBSE board exams 2026, students must score at least 33 percent in each subject. This includes theory, practicals, and internal assessment. They must pass theory and practical separately wherever applicable.

From this year, every Class 10 student must appear in the first board exam. Direct entry into the second exam is not allowed. The second board exam will begin from May 15, 2026, and continue for 15 days. Students who clear the first exam can choose to improve marks in up to three subjects.

Section-Wise Smart Revision Plan

Physics needs clarity. Especially chapters like Electricity and Magnetic Effects of Electric Current. Write formulas first while solving numericals. Units matter. Diagrams like ray diagrams and electric circuits must be neat, drawn with pencil.

Chemistry demands practice. Balancing chemical equations is scoring if done right. Carbon and Its Compounds is often tricky. Revise reactions carefully. Small mistakes cost marks.

Biology is detailed but direct. Life Processes is content-heavy. Diagrams and flowcharts carry marks separately. Labels must be clear. Do not overcrowd answers. Keep them sharp and clean.

Toughest Chapters Students Fear

Many students find Electricity difficult due to calculations. Magnetic Effects also confuses some because of rules and concepts. Carbon and Its Compounds needs strong basics. Life Processes feels long and theory-heavy.

Still, most questions are from NCERT. Sticking to textbook examples usually works better than over-studying extra material.

Exam Day Guidelines That Matter

Carry the admit card without fail. Reach the centre early. Use reading time wisely. Attempt easy questions first. Keep answers structured. Leave space between answers. These small habits make papers look better.

Class 10 exams will conclude on March 10. Class 12 exams will end on April 10. Lakhs of students are appearing this year, so proper conduct and discipline is strictly monitored.

Why This Year Feels Different

The revised paper pattern aims to build conceptual clarity. It pushes students to understand Science, not just memorise. Two board exam opportunities also reduce pressure slightly. Students get a second chance to improve scores, which is helpful.

Board exams always bring stress. But preparation and calm thinking can change the result. One paper does not define life, though it feels like it does.

The CBSE Class 10 Science exam 2026 marks a shift towards balanced evaluation. Students who focused on basics likely found the paper manageable. Those who practiced writing neatly and managing time would have felt more confident walking out of the exam hall.