CBSE class 12 Geography exam 2026: Check exam date, sample paper, marking scheme
CBSE Class 12 Geography Sample Paper 2026: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the Class 12 Geography sample paper and marking scheme for the 2025–26 academic session. Students preparing for the upcoming board examinations can now access the official sample papers and marking guidelines on the CBSE website to understand the updated exam pattern and question structure.The board has confirmed that the CBSE Class 12 Geography examination for the 2025–26 session will be conducted on February 26, 2026, while the annual board exams will commence on February 17, 2026. The Geography paper aims to assess analytical skills, conceptual understanding, and map-based knowledge among students appearing for the exam.Structure of the CBSE Class 12 Geography question paperAccording to the CBSE sample question paper, the Class 12 Geography paper (code 029) will be conducted for a total of 70 marks with a duration of three hours. The paper will consist of 30 compulsory questions, divided into five sections — A, B, C, D, and E.• Section A includes multiple-choice questions (1 mark each).• Section B features source-based questions, each carrying 3 marks.• Section C comprises short answer-type questions, each worth 3 marks and requiring responses of 80–100 words.• Section D contains long answer-type questions carrying 5 marks each, to be written in 120–150 words.• Section E has map-based questions, each carrying 5 marks.For visually impaired candidates, alternate questions have been provided in place of those requiring visual inputs or map interpretation. While there is no overall choice in the question paper, internal choices are available in a few questions across all sections except Section A.Importance of practising CBSE sample papersCBSE has uploaded official sample papers to help students familiarise themselves with the exam format, marking scheme, and expected question types. Regular practice of these papers helps candidates improve time management and accuracy before the final examination. Experts recommend attempting at least two full-length mock tests each week during revision to strengthen speed and confidence.Steps to check and download the CBSE Class 12 Geography sample paperStudents can follow the steps below to download the sample paper and marking scheme for the 2025 exams from the CBSE academic website:Step 1: Visit the official CBSE website at https://cbseacademic.nic.in.Step 2: On the homepage, click on the ‘Sample Question Papers’ link under the ‘Curriculum’ section.Step 3: Select ‘Class XII’ from the list of available classes.Step 4: Choose ‘Geography (Code 029)’ from the subject options provided.Step 5: Click on the links to download both the sample question paper and the marking scheme in PDF format.Direct link to download the CBSE Class 12 Geography 2026 sample paper | Marking SchemePreparation advice from official guidelinesCBSE recommends that students solve multiple sample papers before their final exams to understand their strengths and areas that require improvement. Continuous practice allows better control over timing, enhances presentation skills, and ensures a comprehensive understanding of the syllabus structure before the final examination.
