CBSE Class 12 Computer Science Sample Paper 2026 | Free PDF Download

Lesson Plan

CBSE has released the Class 12 Computer Science Sample Papers for the 2025–26 academic session. With the new dual-board exam system—allowing students to appear in either November or March—these sample papers have become a key resource for effective exam preparation. Computer Science involves both programming and theory, so regular practice with sample papers helps you understand the question format, improve coding accuracy, and manage time better. These papers follow the latest CBSE pattern and marking scheme. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Class 12 Computer Science sample papers for 2025–26. For effective practice, make sure you're familiar with the latest Class 12 Computer Science Syllabus 2025–26

CBSE Class 12 Computer Science SQP 2025-26

a) CBSE Class 12 Computer Science Year-wise Sample Papers

Students can download these sample papers directly from this page, available in a year-wise PDF format along with detailed solutions to aid in their preparation.

Sample Papers PDFs Marking Scheme PDFs
2024-25 Sample Paper Download
2023-24 Sample Paper Download
2022-23 Sample Paper Download
2021-22 Sample Paper (T2) Download
2021-22 Sample Paper (T1) Download
2019-20 Sample Paper Download
2018-19 Sample Paper Download
2017-18 Sample Paper Download
2016-17 Sample Paper Download
2015-16 Sample Paper Download
2014-15 Sample Paper Download

b) How to Access the Latest Class 12 Computer Science Sample Papers 2025-26

There are several ways to access the most up-to-date Computer Science sample papers. Follow these simple steps to get the latest Computer Science sample papers:

Visit the  CBSE Academic Website → Sample Question Papers → Class XII → Computer

Understanding the Class 12 Computer Science Exam Paper

The Class 12 Computer Science Sample Paper is aligned with the latest exam pattern of the CBSE; this will help you understand the exam format and types of questions you may receive in the exam.

a) Key Changes in the Exam Pattern for Computer Science (2025–26)

Though the dual-board structure is new, the exam blueprint for Computer Science remains broadly similar. However, you'll need to align your preparation with the specific term pattern (November and March).

Here's the breakdown for Computer Science Class 12:

Section Marks
Theory 70
Practical 30
Total 100

The theory paper is further divided as:

Unit Marks
Programming and Computational Thinking (Python) 35
Computer Networks 15
Database Management 20
Total (Theory) 70

b) Computer Science Board Paper Pattern 2025-26  Section-wise

The Computer Science paper follows a comprehensive pattern covering programming concepts, database operations, and network fundamentals with both theoretical and practical applications.

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (20 marks)

  • 20 MCQs covering all units with 1 mark each
  • Topics include Python syntax, data structures, SQL commands, and networking concepts

Section B: Very Short Answer Questions (14 marks)

  • 7 questions worth 2 marks each
  • Code snippets analysis, algorithm tracing, and concept definitions

Section C: Short Answer Questions (24 marks)

  • 8 questions worth 3 marks each
  • Programming logic, database queries, and network protocol explanations

Section D: Long Answer Questions (12 marks)

  • 2 questions worth 6 marks each
  • Complete program writing, complex database operations, and comprehensive networking solutions

Key topics include: Python Programming, Data Structures (Lists, Stacks, Queues), File Handling, Database Management with SQL, Computer Networks, and Internet protocols.

How Does the Two-Exam Format Affect Computer Science Preparation?

The new format introduces two full exams in a year, requiring a focused and structured preparation plan:

  • November Exam (Exam 1): May feature questions based on fundamental programming concepts, basic data structures, and core database operations
  • March Exam (Exam 2): Will likely include advanced programming problems, complex SQL queries, and detailed networking concepts

Practising Computer Science Sample Papers 2025-26 Before Exams Helps in:

  • Mastering Python programming syntax and logic building
  • Understanding code debugging and error identification techniques
  • Improving speed in writing SQL queries and database operations
  • Building confidence in explaining networking protocols and internet concepts
  • Developing problem-solving skills for algorithmic questions
  • Getting familiar with practical programming scenarios

How to Use Computer Science Sample Papers 2025-26 Effectively?

  • Practice in timed conditions: Especially for programming questions and code analysis
  • Focus on clean code writing: In Python programs with proper indentation and comments
  • Refer to marking schemes: To understand expected code structure and explanation detail
  • Master all three units equally: Ensure balanced preparation across Programming, Database, and Networks
  • Practice hands-on coding: Run programs on computer to verify logic and output
  • Use sample papers to strengthen SQL query writing: Practice SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE operations with different conditions

In conclusion, regular practice with Class 12 Computer Science sample papers is key to mastering the dual-exam format and excelling in both board exams. These papers help you build programming logic, refine your coding skills, and gain confidence in tackling both theoretical concepts and practical implementations. Until the official 2025–26 papers are released, make use of previous years' papers and trusted resources like Educart to stay ahead.

Also explore:

Stay tuned for latest update and all the best for your preparation!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the latest exam pattern for Class 12 Computer Science (2026)?

The 2026 sample paper follows the updated CBSE structure:

  • Total Marks: 70
  • Time: 3 Hours
  • Sections include: Objective-type questions, short and long answer programming questions.
  • Questions must be answered using Python as the primary language.

2. What topics carry the most weight in the sample paper 2025-26?

Key focus areas include:

  • Data Structures (Stacks, Queues)
  • File Handling in Python
  • Database Management (SQL)
  • Computer Networks
  • Data Communication and Security

These topics often appear in higher-mark questions.

3. How can I best use the sample paper for preparation?

  • Treat it as a full mock test—simulate real exam conditions.
  • Analyze the marking scheme and practice writing step-wise solutions, especially for coding and SQL queries.
  • After solving, self-check and revise weak areas based on question trends.

4. When should I start solving sample papers?

You should begin solving full sample papers once you've completed at least 80–90% of the syllabus, ideally 1–2 months before the board exams, to focus on exam speed, clarity, and structure.

5. Where can I find the free CBSE Computer Science sample paper for 2026?

The official sample paper and its marking scheme are available on the CBSE Academic website. You can download the PDF for free and use it as your primary reference for exam practice.

book image

Buy Latest Books

teacher image

Teacher's Specimen