CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27: Registration Opens for Classes 8 to 10, Check Important Dates
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27 for students of Classes 8, 9 and 10. Through this initiative, the Board aims to develop scientific thinking, curiosity, problem-solving skills and creativity among students.
According to CBSE Circular No. Acad-67/2026, dated October 13, 2026, the Science Challenge will feature two rounds: a school-level round and an inter-school round. Students can participate in both rounds without paying any fee.
CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27: Important Dates
CBSE has announced the following schedule for the Science Challenge:
Activity
Important Dates
School registration for Round 1
October 14–30, 2026
Round 1 at school level
November 2–13, 2026
School registration for Round 2
November 17–25, 2026
Round 2 computer-based challenge
November 30–December 4, 2026
CBSE will notify schools of the exact date for the second round.
Who Can Participate in the CBSE Science Challenge?
All students of Classes 8, 9 and 10 from CBSE-affiliated schools can participate in Round 1. Schools must register their students through the official Science Challenge portal.
After Round 1, each participating school can select six students for Round 2. Schools must choose the two best-performing students from each of the three classes.
How Will CBSE Conduct Round 1?
CBSE will provide registered schools with a Science Challenge question paper containing multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and the scoring criteria through its portal.
Schools must conduct Round 1 between November 2 and November 13, 2026. Students will get a maximum of 60 minutes to complete the challenge.
The assessment will test both speed and accuracy. Teachers must ensure fair conduct, give instructions before the test and record the time students take to complete the paper.
How Will Schools Select Students for Round 2?
Schools will evaluate students using the scoring criteria provided by CBSE. They should first consider students who answer the maximum number of questions correctly.
If several students achieve the same score, schools should give preference to those who complete the test in less time.
Each school can register six selected students—two each from Classes 8, 9 and 10—for Round 2.
What Will Round 2 Include?
CBSE will conduct Round 2 as a computer-based challenge between November 30 and December 4, 2026. Only schools that complete Round 1 and register their selected students for Round 2 can participate.
The Board will share detailed instructions with schools that register students for the second round.
Certificates for Participants
CBSE will issue online participation certificates to all students who take part in Round 2. The Board will also award appreciation certificates to the best-performing students.
How to Register for the CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27
Schools can register their students through the official portal using their LOC credentials.
Registration portal: https://cbseacadit.nic.in/sc/
Schools must complete Round 1 registration between October 14 and October 30, 2026.
CBSE Encourages Schools to Promote Scientific Thinking
CBSE has asked affiliated schools to encourage students to participate in the Science Challenge. The initiative seeks to inspire learners to think critically, ask creative questions and solve problems scientifically.
For queries, schools can contact CBSE at cbsesciencechallenge@cbseshiksha.in or call 011-43354916.
Official circular: CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27 – Circular No. Acad-67/2026
Key Takeaway
Students of Classes 8 to 10 can participate in the CBSE Science Challenge 2026-27 without any fee. Schools should complete Round 1 registration by October 30, 2026, and prepare students for the first round in November.




