CBSE 2026 Exams: New Question Paper Pattern Explained for Students

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that the 2026 board exams for Classes 10 and 12 will begin on February 17, 2026. Alongside the dates, the board has also introduced changes in the question paper structure for several subjects. Students across the country are preparing to adapt to these modifications as the exams approach, ensuring they understand the new format and marking scheme.

I am writing about this topic because every year, thousands of students across India face stress and uncertainty about the changes in the board exams. Understanding the new question paper structure is crucial for effective preparation, time management, and scoring well. These changes are designed to test students’ analytical and application skills rather than rote memorisation. Highlighting these updates helps students, parents, and teachers plan better and stay informed about what to expect on exam day, reducing last-minute confusion.

Key Changes in CBSE Question Paper Structure

CBSE has revised the question paper format for multiple subjects, focusing on conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. Here are some highlights:

Class 10 Mathematics: More application-based questions with reduced emphasis on repetitive formulae.
Science and Social Science: Questions will now include case studies and experimental-based scenarios.
Language Subjects: Reading comprehension sections will include both long and short passages with varied questions to test interpretation and critical thinking.
Internal Choice: Some subjects now offer internal choices to allow students to attempt questions of their strength.

Weightage and Marking Pattern

Objective-type questions (MCQs) and very short-answer questions will form a larger part of the paper.
Long-answer questions will require detailed explanations and stepwise solutions.
Marks distribution has been adjusted to reflect understanding and application rather than simple recall.

Preparation Tips for Students

Review the updated sample papers released by CBSE to understand the question pattern.
Focus on conceptual clarity and practice problem-solving questions regularly.
Time management is crucial; practice completing papers within the given time limit.
Revise diagrams, experiments, and case studies thoroughly for Science and Social Science.

IMU PhD Admissions 2025–26 Open: Apply for Maritime Research Programmes

Indian Maritime University (IMU), a central university under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, has opened applications for its PhD admissions for the academic year 2025–26. The university, with its headquarters in Chennai and campuses across major port cities, offers specialised research programmes focused on maritime studies, marine engineering, logistics, ocean science, port management and allied fields. The admissions are open now for those who wish to pursue research in the maritime domain.

Maritime research is still a niche area in India despite the country having a 7,500 km coastline and some of the busiest ports in South Asia. With global trade, shipping technology, ocean studies and port automation growing faster than ever, the demand for skilled researchers is also increasing. Unfortunately, many students are unaware of research opportunities in this field.

IMU’s PhD programmes provide a structured path for scholars who want to work on practical, industry-relevant research in shipping, port development, marine law, logistics and sustainability. By highlighting this admission opportunity, more deserving candidates can explore maritime research as a serious academic and career option.

About Indian Maritime University (IMU)

Indian Maritime University was established in 2008 as a central university to strengthen maritime education and research in India. It operates campuses located in Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Kochi and Visakhapatnam. These campuses specialise in various disciplines such as:

Marine engineering and naval architecture
Nautical science and navigation
Port and shipping management
Oceanography and coastal studies
Maritime law and policy
Logistics and supply chain management

IMU works closely with maritime boards, port authorities, coast guard agencies and private shipping companies, making research highly industry-oriented.

IMU PhD Admissions 2025–26: Key Details

The university offers both full-time and part-time PhD research opportunities. Key highlights include:

Applications open for the academic year 2025–26
Research areas span engineering, management, sciences and law related to the maritime sector
Full-time scholars may receive stipends as per university rules
Part-time candidates are also eligible, especially those working in maritime industries or academia

Research Areas Available

Students can apply for PhD programmes in specialised disciplines such as:

Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture
Maritime Management and Port Operations
Logistics and Supply Chain in Sea Trade
Ocean Science and Marine Technology
Maritime Law and Policy Studies
Coastal and Environmental Studies
Marine Economics and Trade Studies

These programmes allow scholars to contribute research with real-world applications in ports, shipping lines, ocean studies and maritime safety.

Eligibility Criteria

While detailed eligibility requirements are available in the official notification, the common qualifications expected include:

Postgraduate degree (Master’s) in a relevant discipline with minimum marks as specified by IMU
Candidates from engineering, management, science, law and maritime backgrounds can apply depending on the field chosen
A valid score in the IMU Research Entrance Test (IMU-RET) may be required unless exempted as per rules

Candidates working in maritime institutions or industries may seek admission in part-time categories, subject to approval.

Why Pursue a PhD at IMU?

IMU’s research platform is closely aligned with India’s maritime growth. Students pursuing a PhD can benefit from:

Industry-relevant problem statements
Access to port authorities and maritime agencies for field research
Opportunities for global collaboration
Scope for working on sustainability, green shipping and digital transformation in ports
Potential research funding from government and industry bodies

IMU also partners with ministries and maritime boards, giving scholars exposure to real policy and operations.