The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27 for students from Classes 8 to 10. If you are a CBSE student you can develop your scientific curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and analytical skills while exploring science beyond routine classroom learning.
The challenge will be conducted in two rounds: An intra-school round followed by an inter-school round. Participation is free, giving you an opportunity to test your scientific knowledge, and improve your understanding of scientific concepts.
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What Is the CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27?
The CBSE Science Challenge is a student enrichment initiative designed to encourage scientific thinking and a spirit of inquiry among school students. It aims to develop higher-order thinking skills by applying scientific concepts to different situations.
The challenge focuses on your ability to think critically, answer questions accurately, and solve problems within a limited time. It also encourages you to approach scientific concepts with curiosity rather than relying solely on memorisation.
CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27: Important Dates
You should keep track of the following dates to ensure that your school completes the registration and participation process on time:
| Event | Important dates |
| Round 1 registration by schools | 14 to 30 October, 2026 |
| Round 1 at school level | 2 to 13 November, 2026 |
| Round 2 registration by schools | 17 to 25 November, 2026 |
| Round 2 computer-based challenge | 30 November, 2026 to 4 December, 2026 (tentative) |
Note: The Board will communicate the detailed arrangements for Round 2 to the schools that register their selected students. The date for the computer-based challenge is tentative.
Who Can Participate in the CBSE Science Challenge?
If you are a student at a CBSE-affiliated school studying in any of the classes from 8 to 10, you are eligible to participate in Round 1. Your school must register the participating students through the official Science Challenge portal.
For Round 2, your school can nominate six students who have already participated in Round 1. The selection will include the two best-performing students from each of Classes 8, 9, and 10.
Note: There is no participation fee for either round.
CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27: Exam Pattern and Selection Process
Round 1: School-Level Challenge
- Question format: The question paper will contain multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on different stimuli.
- Time limit: You will have a maximum of 60 minutes to complete the paper.
- Invigilation: Teachers must ensure all students start together, explain instructions beforehand and record early submissions.
- Scoring: Answers must be evaluated using the scoring key provided by CBSE, considering both speed and accuracy.
- Selection criteria: Students answering the maximum number of questions accurately will receive priority. In case of a tie, students completing the task in less time will be preferred.
Round 2: Inter-School Computer-Based Challenge
Registration for Round 2 will be open from 17 November, 2026 to 25 November, 2026.
Certificates and Recognition
The CBSE Science Challenge also offers recognition for your participation and performance.
- Participation certificate: All students participating in Round 2 will receive an online participation certificate issued by CBSE.
- Appreciation certificate: The Board will provide appreciation certificates to the best-performing students.
These certificates will recognise your involvement in an academic enrichment activity and your interest in developing scientific skills.
Helpline
For further queries regarding the CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27, schools can contact:
Email ID: [email protected]
Telephone number: 011-43354916
Important Links
| CBSE Promotes Fitness Through Fit India Freedom Run 2026 | CBSE Released List of Venues For National-Level Selection Trials |
Conclusion
The CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27 offers you an opportunity to strengthen your scientific knowledge, improve your problem-solving skills, and develop a more analytical approach to learning.
With regular practice, conceptual clarity, and effective time management, you can prepare confidently for both rounds. Make the most of this opportunity to explore science, challenge your thinking, and build skills that will support your academic journey.
Source
Official CBSE Circular, 13 October 2026: Click here to read.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per CBSE, the Education Ministry, and the Government of India.
