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

Lesson Plan

CBSE has released the Class 12 Political Science sample papers for the 2025–26 academic session. With the dual-board exam format now introduced—allowing students to appear in either November or March—these sample papers are very helpful for your exam preparation. Political Science involves understanding concepts, case studies, and writing balanced answers. These sample papers are based on the latest CBSE exam pattern and help you practice answer framing, improve speed, and focus on important topics. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Class 12 Political Science sample papers for 2025–26. Also refer to the updated CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2025–26 for better alignment.

CBSE Class 12 Political Science SQP 2025-26

a) CBSE Year-wise Sample Papers Class 12 Political Science With Solutions

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

Sample Papers PDFs MS + Solutions PDFs
2024-25 Sample Paper Solutions
   2023-24 Sample Paper Solutions
2022-23 Sample Paper Solutions
2021-22 Sample Papers (T2) Solutions
2021-22 Sample Papers (T1) Solutions
2020-21 Sample Paper Solutions
2029-20 Sample Paper Solutions
2018-19 Sample Paper Solutions
2017-18 Sample Paper Solutions
2016-17 Sample Paper Solutions
2015-16 Sample Paper Solutions
2014-15 Sample Paper Solutions

b) How to Access the Latest Class 12 Political Science Sample Papers

Students can download the latest sample papers through:

CBSE Academic Website → Sample Question Papers → Class XII → Political Science

c) Political Science Class 12 Additional Practice Papers

The Class 12 board examination is among the big milestones in a student’s academic life. To help with the effective study material as per the latest exam pattern, the DeIE has released an additional practice paper for the political science subject.

2023-24

<red>  ➜  <red> Class 12 Political Science Practice Paper Set 1 

<red>  ➜  <red> Class 12 Political Science Practice Paper Set 2 

Understanding the Class 12 Psychology Exam Paper

The Class 12 Political 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 Political Science (2025–26)

Sample papers are being adapted to align with the new dual exam model. For Political Science, this may include:

  • More source-based and case-based questions rooted in political events or contemporary developments
  • Competency-based MCQs and assertion-reason questions
  • Emphasis on conceptual clarity and real-world application
  • A structured balance of analytical and factual questions
Components Details
Theory Exam 80 Marks
Project Work 20 Marks
Total 100 Marks

b) Examination Pattern for Class 12 Political Science

The question paper consists of five sections (A, B, C, D, and E) with 30 questions in total: 

  • Question numbers 1–12 are multiple-choice questions of one mark each.
  • Question numbers 13–18 are worth 2 marks each. Answers to these questions should not exceed 50–60 words each.
  • Question numbers 19–23 are worth 4 marks each. Answers to these questions should not exceed 100–120 words each. There is an internal choice in two of the four-mark questions.
  • Question numbers 24-26 are passage, cartoon, and map-based questions. Answer accordingly.
  • Question numbers 27–30 are worth 6 marks each. Answers to these questions should not exceed 170-180 words. 8. There is an internal choice in 6-mark questions.

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

With the introduction of two board exam attempts (likely in November and March), students now have an opportunity to:

  • Use the first sample paper attempt to identify strengths and weaknesses before the first board exam
  • Refine and focus their preparation between attempts using updated sample papers
  • Track improvement areas and tailor their study plans accordingly

This dual opportunity increases the strategic value of solving sample papers consistently throughout the academic year.

How to Make the Most of Political Science Sample Papers 2025-26?

Here’s a simple preparation strategy:

  • Solve one paper before your first board attempt to assess your preparation level
  • Review solutions to understand expected answer formats and improve writing skills
  • Revise weak areas based on initial analysis and reattempt with new sample papers
  • Use a timer while solving full-length papers to simulate the exam experience

So, regular practice with sample papers helps identify recurring patterns and build confidence in tackling competency-based questions. These updated formats reflect CBSE’s evolving emphasis on applied knowledge and critical thinking skills. Consistent practice not only sharpens understanding but also contributes to improved scores and reduced exam-related anxiety.

Also, for Commerce stream students, it’s helpful to refer to:

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is Class 12 Political Science easy to score?

Yes, Political Science is considered scoring if you understand key events, concepts, and structure your answers well. Regular sample paper practice helps improve presentation and content clarity.

Q2. How many source-based or passage-based questions are there in the Political Science paper 2025-26?

Typically, 1 to 2 source-based questions are included. These test your ability to interpret political contexts, ideologies, or events using given excerpts.

Q3. Do sample papers follow the updated CBSE pattern?

Yes. Both CBSE and Educart sample papers are designed according to the latest exam pattern, including competency-based and analytical questions as per the dual-exam format.

Q4. Are marking schemes and solutions available with the sample papers?

Absolutely. All official CBSE sample papers and Educart sets come with detailed marking schemes and model answers for reference and self-evaluation.

Q5. What’s the best way to practise Political Science sample papers 2025-26?

Solve papers chapter-wise first, then attempt full-length papers in a timed setting. Pay attention to introduction-body-conclusion structure and use relevant political terms and examples to support your answers.

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