CBSE vs ICSE: What Is Different in Class 9 and 10 Mathematics and Science?
GyanSanchar · 24 Oct 2026
Parents often ask whether their child should study for CBSE or ICSE, and students who switch boards worry about the gap. The two boards teach the same core ideas, but they differ in style, depth and the way answers are marked. Knowing this helps you prepare for the board you are in.
The big picture
CBSE | ICSE (CISCE) | |
|---|---|---|
Textbooks | NCERT is the base for Mathematics and Science | Schools choose books, such as Selina or ML Aggarwal, along with the CISCE syllabus |
Style | Concise, concept-focused, strong on application and competency-based questions | Wider and more detailed, with more depth and longer written answers |
Science in Class 9 and 10 | One combined Science paper (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) | Physics, Chemistry and Biology are separate papers |
Internal marks | Internal assessment is part of the final marks | Internal assessment is also part of the final marks (usually 20 marks in each subject) |
Competitive exam link | NCERT-based, matching the pattern of NEET and JEE Main | Deeper coverage, but students must also cover NCERT for NEET and JEE |
Syllabus and marking details are revised from time to time. Always check the latest CBSE and CISCE syllabus and sample papers.
Mathematics
In CBSE
The Class 9 and 10 syllabus covers Number Systems and Real Numbers, Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Geometry, Trigonometry (Class 10), Mensuration and Statistics and Probability. Questions are often application-based and many are case-based.
In ICSE
It covers the same core ideas, with additional topics such as Commercial Mathematics (for example banking, GST and shares) and a heavier treatment of Geometry and Mensuration. Answers need to show every step.
Science
In CBSE
A single Science paper where the questions mix concepts from all three subjects. NCERT diagrams, definitions and activities matter a great deal.
In ICSE
Physics, Chemistry and Biology are taught and examined separately, each with its own syllabus, numericals and diagrams. A student has three subjects to manage instead of one.
Which is better?
Neither is better in every case. CBSE suits students who want a focused, NCERT-based path and a smooth link to JEE and NEET. ICSE suits students who like depth and written expression. The more important factor is steady study of whichever syllabus your child follows.
If you are changing boards
Compare both syllabi chapter by chapter and list the gaps.
Fix gaps in Mathematics first, since it builds on itself.
Practise the writing style of the new board with sample papers.
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