CBSE EDUCATION UPDATE | 2026–2028
CBSE Advanced Mathematics & Science
New System for Class IX (2026–27) and Class X (2027–28)
Complete Guide for Students & Parents
CBSE is introducing a two-level learning arrangement in Mathematics and Science. Students will study compulsory Standard subjects and can additionally opt for Advanced Mathematics, Advanced Science or both.
1. Understanding the New System
| Subject | Status |
|---|---|
| Mathematics Standard | Compulsory |
| Mathematics Advanced | Optional |
| Science Standard | Compulsory |
| Science Advanced | Optional |
Students can choose:
- Standard Mathematics + Standard Science.
- Advanced Mathematics + Standard Science.
- Standard Mathematics + Advanced Science.
- Advanced Mathematics + Advanced Science.
2. Examination System
Class IX – 2026–27
| Subject | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Mathematics Standard | School-based |
| Science Standard | School-based |
| Mathematics Advanced | School-based, optional |
| Science Advanced | School-based, optional |
Class X – 2027–28
| Subject | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Mathematics Standard | CBSE Board Examination |
| Science Standard | CBSE Board Examination |
| Mathematics Advanced | Optional Board Examination |
| Science Advanced | Optional Board Examination |
3. Objective or Subjective Questions?
Question formats may include:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Assertion–Reason questions.
- Very Short Answer questions.
- Short and Long Answer questions.
- Case-based and source-based questions.
- Application and reasoning questions.
- Data interpretation questions.
Important: HOTS does not mean subjective only. Even an MCQ can test advanced analytical thinking.
4. What Are HOTS Questions?
HOTS stands for Higher Order Thinking Skills. These questions test the ability to apply, analyse, evaluate and create solutions rather than simply memorising answers.
Find the area of a triangle with base 10 cm and height 8 cm.
HOTS Mathematics QuestionA rectangular park has a fixed perimeter. Find the dimensions that maximise its area and justify your answer.
State Newton's Second Law of Motion.
HOTS Science QuestionCompare the acceleration of two bodies of different masses under the same force. Explain your reasoning.
5. Advanced Mathematics – Six Additional Chapters
| No. | Chapter |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sets |
| 2 | Logarithms |
| 3 | Relations and Functions |
| 4 | Coordinate Geometry |
| 5 | Combinatorics |
| 6 | Exploring Some More Progressions |
6. Advanced Science – Ten Additional Chapters
| No. | Chapter |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measurement – Foundation of Science |
| 2 | Understanding Motion through Experience |
| 3 | Newton's Laws of Motion |
| 4 | The Geometry of Power – Advanced Simple Machines |
| 5 | Work and Energy |
| 6 | Structure of Atom |
| 7 | Chemical Bonding |
| 8 | Mixtures and Separation of Mixtures |
| 9 | Microscope and Microscopy |
| 10 | Engineering Life: Miracles in Biotechnology |
7. Class IX Report Card
Advanced assessment is school-based in Class IX. Schools should communicate separately how the optional Advanced performance will be recorded.
| Subject | Illustrative Marks |
|---|---|
| Mathematics Standard | 90/100 |
| Science Standard | 89/100 |
| Mathematics Advanced | Additional assessment |
| Science Advanced | Additional assessment |
Illustrative example only. This is not a prescribed CBSE report-card format.
8. Class X DMC – How Will Advanced Be Shown?
Students opting for Advanced subjects will have the additional Board examination opportunity in Class X.
Awaiting detailed instructions: Final DMC layout, marks display, qualifying criteria and endorsement wording.
Advanced marks should not be assumed to be added to the Standard subject aggregate.
9. Is Advanced Useful for JEE, NEET and Olympiads?
| Career Goal | Suggested Choice |
|---|---|
| JEE Engineering | Consider both Advanced subjects |
| NEET Medical | Consider Advanced Science |
| Mathematics Olympiad | Advanced Mathematics |
| Science Olympiad | Advanced Science |
These subjects can strengthen conceptual foundations but are not compulsory prerequisites for JEE or NEET.
10. Official CBSE Circulars and Links
Parents, teachers and students should refer to the official CBSE documents below.
- CBSE Circular Acad-70/2026 – Scheme of Studies
- CBSE Curriculum 2026–27 Portal (Open the Initial Page Pdf and Read the Page No 16 & 17 for Advanced Maths & Science)
- CBSE Circular Acad-14/2026 – Curriculum Release
- Advanced Mathematics – Class IX PDF
- Advanced Science – Class IX PDF
- Standard Mathematics – Class IX PDF
- Standard Science – Class IX PDF
- All CBSE Academic Circulars
- CBSE 142nd Governing Body Meeting Minutes
Choose Advanced based on the student's interest, conceptual understanding and academic readiness. A strong foundation in Standard Mathematics and Science should always remain the first priority.
Independent educational guide for students, parents and teachers.
Disclaimer: This is an independent explanatory article and not an official CBSE publication. CBSE notifications and subsequent examination instructions shall prevail.