CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026 | Free PDF Download

CBSE has officially released the Class 12 History sample papers for the 2025–26 academic session. With the dual-board exam format—allowing students to appear in either November or March—these sample papers are very helpful for your preparation. History is a theory-based subject that requires strong understanding of events, timelines, and answer presentation. These sample papers are based on the latest exam pattern and help you practice how to write structured, high-scoring answers. In this article, we’ve covered everything you need to know about the Class 12 History sample papers for 2025–26. Before solving, ensure your preparation is aligned with the Class 12 History Syllabus 2025–26, including project guidelines.

a) History Year-wise Sample Papers

Students can get the History Sample Paper for Classes 12, directly from here. Download the sample papers and the marking scheme are available for free in PDF format.

b) How to Access the Latest Class 12 History Sample Papers?

Follow these simple steps to get the latest History sample papers:

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

c) CBSE Class 12 Additional Practice Papers ‍

To practice answering competency-based questions, incorporate the CBSE Class 12 additional papers into your study regimen. To prepare according to the most recent format, students can comprehend the exam pattern and its mark distribution. 

2024 CBSE Class 12 Additional Practice Papers 

<red> ➜  <red> Class 12 History Set 1 SQP  + Marking Scheme

<red> ➜  <red> Class 12 History Set 2 SQP  + Marking Scheme

2023-24 Edudel Class 12 Practice Papers 

<red> ➜  <red> Class 12 History Practice Paper Set 1 

<red> ➜  <red> Class 12 History Practice Paper Set 2 

Understanding the Class 12 History Exam Paper

The Class 12 History 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 History (2025–26)

With the implementation of two board exams a year, CBSE has introduced more structured formats in humanities subjects like History. Here's what to expect:

• A balanced paper with both factual recall and critical thinking questions
• Increased weightage on source-based and map-based questions
• MCQs designed around historical interpretation, not just rote facts
• Structured long answers involving case studies, interlinking themes, and timelines

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b) Section-wise Breakdown of History Exam Paper 2025-26

Expect the paper to be divided into sections (A, B, C, etc.), covering short answers, long answers, and case-based questions, with 6-mark questions forming a crucial scoring opportunity.

• Section A (MCQs): There will be 21 multiple-choice questions, each worth 1 mark. These questions will check how well you understand important history ideas and words.
• Section B (Short Answer): You will have 6 short questions, each worth 3 marks. You should answer in 60-80 words, explaining history events or ideas clearly and briefly.
• Section C (Long Answer): There are 3 long questions, each worth 8 marks. You need to write detailed answers about history topics, around 300-350 words.
• Section D (Case Study): This part has 3 questions based on real-life history stories. You’ll need to think about and explain these events carefully.
• Section E (Map): This section will have questions about maps. You’ll show what you know about history places and geography.

How Are History Sample Papers 2025-26 Beneficial for Dual Board Exams?

With the new dual-exam approach, students now get two opportunities to appear for the Class 12 board exams in one academic year. Here's how sample papers can help:

• Solve the first set of sample papers for November exam prep to test foundational knowledge
• Use feedback and performance to adjust revision plans for the March exam
• Get familiar with how to present answers in the History exam – structure, time allocation, and analytical tone

This system gives you a clear window to improve, especially in a subject where answer writing style matters just as much as content.

How to Make the Most of Sample Papers?

Here’s how to use Class 12 History sample papers effectively:

1. Create exam-like conditions at home and solve the paper within 3 hours
2. Check answers with official CBSE or Educart marking schemes focus on structuring long answers with introduction, body, and conclusion
3. Revise frequently tested themes, especially from NCERT chapters like Themes in Indian History – Part I, II, III
4. Prepare well for map-based questions (India – Important Sites and Empires)
5. Use sample papers to refine project report writing and presentation as part of internal assessments

Regular practice also builds confidence for handling questions that require analysis of historical sources, interpretation of events, and understanding cause-effect relationships.

How Do You Use a Sample Paper Effectively?

Using a history class 12 sample paper includes various benefits, but many students don’t know the trick of using sample papers effectively. Here are some super easy tips to help you:

• Before solving a sample paper, always ensure that you have completed all the topics in your syllabus. This ensures that you can attempt the paper with good knowledge and helps best in assessing your understanding of the syllabus.
• Solve sample papers in a quiet, distraction-free environment; use a timer to create an actual exam-like environment; treat it like a real exam; no peeking at textbooks or notes; and follow the time limit to make the most use of the sample paper.
• Attempt all questions, even if you are unaware of some answers. Try to attempt every question to identify your weaker areas, and pay more attention to the questions you are unable to answer.
• After finishing the sample paper, take some time to carefully review your answers. Compare them with the answers provided in the solutions. This step is very important for identifying your mistakes, and this will help you not repeat the mistakes.

In summary, practicing Class 12 History sample papers is essential to adapt to the new dual-exam format and latest question patterns. Regular practice helps build confidence, improve answer writing, and manage time effectively. Until the official 2025 - 26 papers are released, make use of previous year papers and trusted resources like Educart to stay ahead. 

Looking to strengthen your preparation further? Don’t miss:

• CBSE Class 12 Political Science Sample Papers 2025–26
• CBSE Class 12 Geography Sample Papers 2025–26

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How important are sample papers 2025-26 for Class 12 History board exam preparation?

Very important. History is a subjective subject, and sample papers help you practice structuring long answers, analyzing sources, and managing time effectively.

Q2. Are map-based questions included in History sample papers 2025-26?

Yes. CBSE sample papers usually include 1–2 map-based questions, often from units like Indian Nationalism and Partition. Practising these ensures accuracy in the actual exam.

Q3. What is the ideal way to write high-scoring History answers?

Stick to a clear introduction, main body with subheadings or points, and a short conclusion. Support your answers with facts, timelines, and references from the syllabus. Practising with sample papers helps perfect this format.

Q4. Do the sample papers reflect the source-based question pattern?

Yes. Modern sample papers include source-based or extract-based questions that test comprehension and interpretation. These are common in CBSE’s competency-focused format.

Q5. Can sample papers help with internal assessment or project work?

Indirectly, yes. While sample papers focus on theory, many also include themes or ideas aligned with the project syllabus, helping you better understand how to structure your research and presentation.