Changes to the CBSE Exam Pattern for 2025

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) which was released in 2020, CBSE has introduced significant changes to the question paper format for the upcoming 2025 board exams Sample Papers. These updates mainly are focussed on the point to move away students from rote memorization to competency-based learning. This will encourage students to apply knowledge practically and develop real-world critical thinking skills.

Increased Focus on Competency-Based Questions in 2025

One of the most important changes is the increased emphasis on competency-based questions. These questions have been designed to assess students' ability to apply theoretical concepts taught in the classrooms to real-world problems and case studies.

• For Class 10: The board exam question paper format will remain consistent with the 2024 session, with 50% competency-based questions.
• For Class 12: The percentage of competency-based questions will rise significantly from 40% in 2024 to 50% in 2025. This is a substantial change for students preparing for their final year of school.

It is expected that the questions ill mainly include:

• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Case-based questions
• Source-based integrated questions

Students are advised to access the sample papers issued by CBSE this year and also speak to their teachers to get more clarity as all information has already been sent to the schools.

Less emphasis on Rote Learning

CBSE’s revised exam pattern will reduce the weightage of questions requiring rote memorization (ratta marna as we say in Hindi). By decreasing the number of such questions such as short and long answers, the CBSE board aims to foster a deeper understanding of subjects amongst young students.

Breakdown of Question Paper Composition for 2025

Here’s a summary of the key updates to the 2025 CBSE exam pattern:

• Class 10:

  • Competency-based questions: 50% (unchanged from 2024).
  • Remaining questions will test theoretical knowledge and other traditional formats.

• Class 12:

  • Competency-based questions: 50% (increased from 40% in 2024).
  • Fewer questions will focus on factual recall.

This shift will be mainly impacting the Class 12 students, who must now prepare for a greater number of application-based questions.

Preparing for the 2025 CBSE Board Exams

The changes introduced for 2025 highlight CBSE's effort to adjust to modern global educational practices and prepare students for real-world challenges. We strongly advise that all students should focus on understanding concepts in depth and practicing with a variety of question formats provided on studiestoday, including MCQs and case-based problems. With the exams starting on February 15, 2025, strategic and focused preparation will be key to success for all students.