CBSE makes 3 languages compulsory in Classes 9 and 10, big change from July 1

CBSE has made three languages compulsory for Classes 9 and 10 from July 1, 2026, under a new NEP-aligned policy. Students must study at least two Indian languages. The board has also introduced a transition plan, textbook support, and flexible teaching arrangements for schools implementing the change.

In Short

• The revised framework will be introduced mid-session during the 2026-27 academic year
• Students will study languages marked R1, R2 and R3 under CBSE
• Class 6 textbooks and extra regional literature will support third-language teaching

The Central Board of Secondary Education has announced a major shift in its language policy for Classes 9 and 10. In a circular issued on May 15, 2026, the board confirmed that from July 1, 2026, students will have to study three languages as part of their curriculum. However, there will be no board exam for the third language.

The change will apply to the 2026–27 academic session, which has already begun in April, so schools will follow a transition approach while implementing the new structure.

TWO INDIAN LANGUAGES NOW COMPULSORY

Under the revised system, students will study three languages labelled as R1, R2 and R3. CBSE has made it clear that at least two of these must be native Indian languages.

Students can still opt for a foreign language, but only if the other two choices are Indian languages. Foreign languages may also be taken as an additional fourth subject.

This marks a clear push towards strengthening Indian language learning in schools.

Check out the CBSE notification here:

NO BOARD EXAM PRESSURE FOR THIRD LANGUAGE

CBSE has clearly stated that there will be no board examination for the third language in Class 10.

All assessment for R3 will be conducted internally by schools. The marks will still be reflected in the final certificate, but students will not be stopped from appearing in the Class 10 board exams because of this subject.

This move is aimed at reducing stress while still encouraging multilingual learning.

TRANSITION YEAR, NOT A SUDDEN SHIFT

CBSE has taken a transitional approach for the 2026-27 academic session. Since the academic year has already begun in April, schools are being given flexibility to adapt gradually.

The board has emphasised that no student will be disadvantaged during this alignment phase, making it clear that the focus remains on learning rather than strict enforcement.

HOW SCHOOLS WILL MANAGE THE CHANGE

The rollout comes with practical challenges, especially around teaching resources. CBSE has allowed multiple flexible options for schools facing teacher shortages.

Schools can use hybrid teaching, share resources through Sahodaya school clusters, hire retired teachers, or even assign teachers from other subjects who are proficient in the language.

They can also choose any language from the CBSE-approved list, as long as the two-Indian-language rule is followed. Schools must update their language offerings on the OASIS portal by June 30, 2026.

WHAT STUDENTS WILL STUDY FOR NOW

Until new textbooks are introduced, students will use Class 6 level textbooks for the third language.

To bridge the gap, schools will add local or regional literature such as poems, short stories and non-fiction texts. CBSE is expected to release detailed teaching guidelines by June 15.

EXEMPTIONS AND SPECIAL CASES

CBSE has included important relaxations to ensure inclusivity.

Children with Special Needs may receive exemptions from studying a second or third language under the RPWD Act 2016.

Foreign students returning to India can also be given case-by-case exemptions. Schools outside India may follow flexible provisions as well.

WHY THIS CHANGE MATTERS

This is one of the biggest curriculum shifts in recent years, and it signals a push towards multilingual education rooted in Indian languages.

At the same time, CBSE has tried to balance policy with practicality. By removing board exam pressure for the third language and allowing flexibility in implementation, the board is attempting to make the transition smoother for both students and schools.

- Ends