The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released its revised school curriculum for the academic session 2026–27. The updated framework, now available on the CBSE Academic Portal, covers Classes 9, 10, 11, and 12.
One of the key changes is the introduction of a third language from Class 6, in line with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Under this, students will continue studying two languages as before, with an additional language now included.
However, the three-language formula will not immediately apply to higher classes. CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh clarified that the third language, referred to as R3, will begin with Class 6 students this year and will be fully implemented when these students reach Class 10 in 2031.
“R3 level textbooks will be introduced in Class 6 this year. They will write their board exams in 2031, and that’s when the entire scheme will change, and the three-language formula will be entirely implemented,” he said.
Sources indicate that with students expected to study at least two Indian languages, those appearing for Class 10 board exams in 2031 may not be able to take both English and another foreign language as language subjects.
Under the new framework, English will be treated as a foreign language, and only one foreign language may be permitted.
The policy will not apply in the same way to CBSE-affiliated schools abroad. These schools will have flexibility to offer one Indian language instead of mandating two, as required in India.
According to Praggya Singh, Director (Academics), CBSE, learning material for the third language is expected to be made available online this month. CBSE will collaborate with NCERT to develop textbooks for R3.
