CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27, Download SQP PDF & Marking Scheme

The CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27 gives students a clear idea of how the board examination paper is structured and what types of questions they can expect. It covers MCQs, short-answer, long-answer, source-based, and map-based questions, allowing students to practise different answer formats before the exam.

Solving the CBSE Class 12 Arts sample papers under exam-like conditions can help students understand the marks distribution, manage the three-hour duration, and improve their answer-writing approach. It can also help identify topics and question types that need more practice before the Class 12 History Board Exam 2027.

CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27 Highlights

The following table highlights the key details of the paper, including the examination duration, total marks, number of questions, and section-wise structure.

The paper contains 34 compulsory questions. Internal choices are provided in Sections B, C and E. There is no overall choice.

CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27 PDF

Students can use the Class 12 History sample paper PDF to understand how questions are framed across different sections. The paper also gives an idea of the expected answer length for short- and long-answer questions.

Students should solve the complete paper under the given time limit to practise writing answers within the required duration.

CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27 Marking Scheme

The CBSE Class 12 History marking scheme 2026-27 explains the points expected in answers and shows how marks are awarded for different questions.

It is useful for:

• Understanding what examiners expect in 3-mark and 8-mark answers

• Identifying the important points required in an answer

• Checking answers after solving the sample paper

• Improving answer structure and historical explanations

• Practising point-wise answers without missing key information

The marking scheme explains the key points expected in answers and how marks are allotted. Students can use it to understand the level of detail required in different types of questions.

For long-answer questions, students should include the relevant points in sufficient detail rather than writing only brief facts. The marking scheme can be used to review whether an answer covers the points required for the allotted marks.

CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper Pattern 2026-27

The question paper is divided into five sections with different question formats.

Section A

Section A contains 21 MCQs carrying 1 mark each. Questions include statement-based, match-the-following, assertion-reason, image-based, factual and conceptual questions.

Section B

There are six short-answer questions carrying 3 marks each. Answers should generally be written in 60 to 80 words.

Section C

Section C has three long-answer questions carrying 8 marks each. Students are expected to answer these questions in 300 to 350 words.

Section D

This section contains three source-based questions. Each question carries 4 marks and includes three sub-questions.

Section E

Section E is a 5-mark map-based question. It includes identification and location of important historical sites.

How to Download CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27?

Students can follow these steps:

1. Visit the official CBSE Academic website, cbseacademic.nic.in.

2. Open the Sample Question Paper section for Class 12.

3. Select the History subject.

4. Open the sample question paper for the 2026-27 session.

5. Download the PDF and save it for practice.

The marking scheme can also be referred to after completing the paper.

How to Prepare for CBSE Class 12 History Board Exam 2027 Using the Sample Paper?

The sample paper should be used as a practice tool after completing the relevant Class 12 History syllabus CBSE. Students can combine timed paper-solving with answer analysis to improve both speed and accuracy.

1. Solve the paper without notes

Attempt the complete paper in three hours. Avoid referring to textbooks or notes while solving it.

2. Practise different question formats

Prepare separately for MCQs, short answers, long answers, source-based questions and map-based questions.

3. Follow the required word limit

Practise writing short answers within 60 to 80 words and long answers within 300 to 350 words.

4. Analyse your answers

After completing the paper, compare your responses with the marking scheme. Identify missing points and improve the structure of your answers.

5. Practise maps regularly

Revise important locations and practise locating them on an outline map of India.

Also Check: CBSE Class 12 Arts Subjects

Important Topics for CBSE Class 12 History 2026-27

The Class 12 History sample paper includes questions from different areas of the Class 12 History syllabus. Students should revise the complete syllabus rather than limiting preparation to the questions given in the sample paper.

Part I – Themes in Indian History I

Focus on areas such as:

• Harappan civilisation and town planning

• Mauryan administration

• Buddhist and Jain traditions

• Early historical sources and inscriptions

• Trade, weights and economic activities

Part II – Themes in Indian History II

Important areas represented in the sample paper include:

• Agrarian society

• Women in rural society

• Bhakti traditions

• Vijayanagara Empire

• Mughal-era economic and social developments

• Colonial policies such as the Permanent Settlement

Part III – Themes in Indian History III

The sample paper includes areas related to:

• Revolt of 1857

• Mahatma Gandhi and the national movement

• Constituent Assembly

• Public participation in constitution-making

• Social justice and cultural rights

The sample paper also includes questions based on historical sources and map locations, so students should practise these formats alongside chapter revision.

Also Check: CBSE Class 12 Arts Syllabus 2026-27

Benefits of Solving CBSE Class 12 History Sample Paper 2026-27

Solving the Class 12 history sample paper 2026-27 can help students:

• Understand the structure of the board paper

• Practise all major question formats

• Improve time management

• Identify weak areas before the examination

• Learn how to frame 3-mark and 8-mark answers

• Practise source-based questions

• Improve map-based question preparation

• Assess answers using the marking scheme

Regular practice also helps students become familiar with the amount of detail required in different types of answers.

Explore the CBSE Class 12 Arts 2027 to access essential resources for CBSE Arts exam preparation, including detailed insights and strategies. Dive into the CBSE Arts 2027 for structured courses and focused study plans designed to help aspirants in their exams.