Latest Changes in the CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern for 2025

The CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2025 has introduced several updates in its exam pattern to align with evolving educational policies and ensure holistic learning. Understanding these changes is crucial for students to prepare effectively and perform well in their exams. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the CBSE 10th exam pattern, marking scheme, and subject-wise assessment for 2025.

Key Highlights for 2025 Examinations

• Practical Examinations/Internal Assessments: Scheduled to commence from January 1, 2025.
• Annual Theory Examinations: Set to begin from February 15, 2025.
• Mark Uploading: Schools must ensure accurate and timely uploading of marks for practicals, projects, and internal assessments.

Overview of CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2025

CBSE has retained its 100-mark evaluation system for each subject, divided between theory and internal assessments. However, significant refinements have been made in question types, weightage, and assessment strategies. These changes emphasize critical thinking, application-based questions, and skill development rather than mere rote memorization.

1. Total Marks & Subject-Wise Division

Each subject follows a 100-mark structure, divided as follows:

• Theory: 80 Marks
• Internal Assessment: 20 Marks (includes periodic tests, assignments, and practicals where applicable)
• Practical Components: Science, Mathematics, and Social Science subjects will include practical or lab-based assessments.

2. Key Changes in Marking Scheme

• Objective-Based Questions Increased: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and assertion-reasoning-based questions now comprise 40% of the paper, encouraging logical reasoning skills.
• Competency-Based Questions: Around 30% of the paper will consist of case-based and competency-focused questions, requiring students to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Short & Long Answer Questions: The remaining 30% will be short and long-form descriptive questions that test writing skills and in-depth understanding of concepts.
• Reduced Weightage for Rote Learning: Emphasis is now placed on analytical and application-based learning, with fewer direct recall questions.

3. Internal Assessment Updates

• Practical exams and internal assessments continue to hold 20% weightage, ensuring a balance between theoretical and practical knowledge.
• Schools will conduct three periodic tests and take the best two for evaluation, reducing pressure on students.
• Project-based learning and viva exams are now a part of internal assessments, making learning more interactive.
• Portfolio Assessment: Some schools may implement a portfolio system where students submit assignments, projects, and creative work as part of their internal assessment.

Subject-Wise Changes in CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2025

Mathematics

• Higher focus on application-based questions and real-life problem-solving.
• More weightage for case-study problems that test logical reasoning.
• Internal assessments to include project work on mathematical concepts.

Science

• Increase in numericals for Physics, encouraging students to strengthen their calculation and analytical skills.
• More competency-based and experiment-driven questions, requiring students to think critically.
• Biology to include more diagram-based questions, helping students enhance visual understanding.
• Greater emphasis on practical experiments, with viva sessions included in internal assessments.

English

• More focus on comprehension and inference-based reading passages, testing students’ ability to analyze text.
• Grammar-based MCQs to replace rote memorization questions, making the paper more skills-based.
• Inclusion of creative writing exercises to enhance writing abilities.

Social Science

• Inclusion of map-based and real-world application questions, connecting theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Weightage given to current affairs and their connection to historical events, encouraging students to be aware of global developments.
• More project-based assessments, where students will prepare research-based presentations on topics of national and international importance.

Computer Applications

• Increased practical component focusing on coding, software applications, and IT-based problem-solving.
• Theory questions will test logical reasoning and algorithm-based problem-solving.
• Hands-on assignments will be graded as part of internal assessment.

Recommendations for Students

• Stay Informed: Regularly consult official CBSE notifications and school announcements for updates.
• Balanced Preparation: Allocate adequate time to both theory and internal assessments.
• Clarify Doubts: If any aspect of the exam pattern is unclear, consult teachers or school administrators promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Has CBSE changed the exam pattern for Class 10?

Yes, CBSE has introduced more competency-based and analytical questions, reducing rote memorization.

2. What is the pattern of Class 10 exam for 2024-2025?

The new pattern includes 40% MCQs, 30% competency-based questions, and 30% descriptive answers, with 80 marks for theory and 20 for internal assessment.

3. Is there any change in the 10th board exam?

Yes, the marking scheme and question types have been revised, focusing more on application-based learning.

4. What are the changes in CBSE exam pattern 2025?

The main changes include:

Increase in objective and competency-based questions.

More emphasis on real-life applications and problem-solving skills.

Redesigned internal assessments to focus on project-based learning.

5. Will there be no board exams in 2025 for Class 10?

No, CBSE has confirmed that board exams will be conducted in 2025.

6. Will computer marks be added in 10th board 2025?

Yes, for schools offering Computer Applications, the marks will contribute to the overall grade.

Conclusion

Understanding the latest changes in the CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern for 2025 is essential for students to tailor their study strategies accordingly. With more emphasis on analytical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application, students must focus on conceptual clarity and practice competency-based questions. Stay updated with CBSE notifications and continue practicing sample papers to stay ahead!

Understanding the new exam pattern can help in planning ahead for PU education. Check out Bengaluru PU College Admissions: A Step-by-Step Guide for admission insights.