CBSE vs NCERT Syllabus: Same or Different?

CBSE vs NCERT Syllabus: Same or Different?

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CBSE Class 10th Exam Date:01 Jan' 26 - 14 Feb' 26

Manasvini GuptaUpdated on 08 Sep 2025, 03:05 PM IST

Students are often confused whether the CBSE and NCERT syllabi are different or the same. Often, the terms CBSE syllabus and NCERT syllabus are used interchangeably, yet they serve different roles in the education system. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is an exam-conducting authority that conducts board exams across India and abroad for its affiliated schools. On the other hand, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) develops textbooks, teaching methodologies, and learning resources based on national education policies. Let us dive in to understand this more deeply.

This Story also Contains

  1. What is the Main Difference between CBSE and NCERT?
  2. Role of NCERT Books in the CBSE Curriculum
  3. CBSE Syllabus vs NCERT Syllabus for Competitive Exams
  4. Common Misconceptions Related to CBSE and NCERT Syllabus
CBSE vs NCERT Syllabus: Same or Different?
CBSE vs NCERT Syllabus: Same or Different?

What is the Main Difference between CBSE and NCERT?

The CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) are related but distinct. In the simple pointers below, we have explained the primary differences:

  • CBSE recommends NCERT books for its curriculum because they provide standard content aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP).

  • In short, NCERT designs the study material, while CBSE organises and regulates examinations and school education across India for schools which are affiliated to it.

Also, Check: Best CBSE Schools in India

CBSE vs NCERT Syllabus for Class 10 Maths

While NCERT mentions the unit/chapters incorporated in the textbook, CBSE mentions the complete list of topics incorporated in the final exam syllabus along with its marking scheme. This is particularly beneficial to students in understanding the mark allocation for each unit and preparing accordingly for the final exams. In the following table and subsequent image given below, students can understand it better:

CBSE Class 10 Maths Syllabus and Marking Scheme 2025-26

Units

Unit name

Marks

I

Number systems

06

II

Algebra

20

III

Coordinate geometry

06

IV

Geometry

15

V

Trigonometry

12

VI

Mensuration

10

VII

Statistics & Probability

11


Total

80

Sample Image of NCERT 10th Maths Syllabus

1757323963594

Both have the same units and chapters when we compare CBSE Class 10 Maths and the NCERT syllabus. Similarly, other subject syllabi are almost the same.

Role of NCERT Books in the CBSE Curriculum

The CBSE recommends NCERT textbooks for almost all of the subjects offered by it because they provide a structured, easy-to-understand pattern and language that closely aligns with board exam requirements. While CBSE may modify its syllabus slightly, NCERT books remain the primary study material for most schools and enrolled students.

CBSE Syllabus vs NCERT Syllabus for Competitive Exams

  • Many competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and UPSC are based largely on NCERT textbooks, even if the students follow the CBSE curriculum. Students who focus on NCERT books often find it easier to prepare for these exams because the concepts are presented systematically and align with exam patterns.

  • NCERT books provide clear explanations, logical progression of topics, and a strong foundation in basic concepts, which are important for understanding advanced problems in competitive exams.

Common Misconceptions Related to CBSE and NCERT Syllabus

Some of the common misconceptions that students have regarding the NCERT and CBSE syllabus are mentioned in the table below, along with a reality check:

Misconception

Reality

CBSE and NCERT are the same

CBSE is an education board that conducts exams, while NCERT is an organisation that develops textbooks and learning resources.

NCERT is only for CBSE students

NCERT textbooks are used by many boards across India, including state boards, as well as the CBSE.

CBSE does not have its own syllabus

CBSE designs its own syllabus and evaluation framework, but often recommends NCERT textbooks for study.

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Questions related to CBSE Class 10th

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to CBSE Class 10th ?

The CBSE Sahodaya Question Papers for Class 10 (2025-26) are not released centrally by the board as a single PDF.

Here is the essential information you need:

  1. Local Release: The papers are designed and released by the individual Sahodaya School Clusters (groups of CBSE schools) just before or during the pre-board exam dates (typically held in December and January). Therefore, you must check your local cluster's portal or directly with your school administration.

  2. Best Practice: The official model papers, based on the full 2026 syllabus, are the most reliable tool for practice. These accurately reflect the structure, format, and competency-based questions used in the Sahodaya exams.

You can download the latest CBSE Class 10 Model Papers to simulate the Sahodaya tests here: https://school.careers360.com/articles/sahodaya-question-paper-2025 . Focus on that pattern

Hi! If you’re looking for the Class 11 English half yearly question paper for 2025-26 (CBSE board), you’ll find the right resource once you check the link provided from Careers360. Solving previous or sample papers is a smart way to prepare, as it helps you understand the question types, marking scheme, and important topics. This practice will boost your confidence and help you manage your time well in the actual exam.
https://school.careers360.com/boards/cbse/cbse-class-11-half-yearly-sample-papers-2025-26

Hi dear candidate,

Could you please specify us the board of education for which you need the half yearly question papers of class X so that we can help you further.

Below are few links which may help you and it has all the subjects with English as well:

CBSE Class 10 Half Yearly Exam Question Paper 2025-26 with Answer Key & Analysis

ICSE Class 10 Half Yearly Sample Papers 2025-26 PDF (All Subjects)

BEST REGARDS

Hi dear candidate,

Can you please specify the board of education or state for which you need to know the exam pattern and syllabus so that we can guide you accordingly.

Since, most of the boards uses NCERT as base syllabus, you can refer to the link below:

NCERT Syllabus for Class 10 – All Subjects PDF Download 2025-26

Exam pattern:

CBSE 10th New Exam Pattern 2026- Marking Scheme, Subject-Wise Exam Pattern

BEST REGARDS

The CBSE Class 10th Board Exams for the 2026 session will follow the revised curriculum, emphasizing competency-based questions.

  • Conducting Body: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

  • Exam Period: The main theory exams are typically held between February and April 2026.

  • Grading: Based on marks in five main subjects plus internal assessment marks (often 20 marks per subject) provided by the school.

  • Passing Criteria: You must achieve at least 33% overall in each subject (theory + practical/internal assessment combined) to be declared pass.

Key Preparation Strategy

The most crucial element of your preparation is understanding the exam structure:

  • Syllabus: Strictly adhere to the rationalized syllabus released by CBSE for the 2025-26 academic year.

  • Practice: Your primary resource should be the latest sample papers and previous year question papers. These accurately reflect the format and types of competency questions being asked.

For the most comprehensive and official announcements, including the detailed time table and access to crucial practice materials, always check the official board updates, as tracked by Careers360: https://school.careers360.com/exams/cbse-class-10th .