Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will implement a new three-language policy for students in Classes 9 and 10 starting July 1, 2026 . This directive aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.
Under the new mandate, students must study a minimum of three languages. At least two of these languages must be native Indian languages. The policy aims to promote linguistic diversity and national integration among students.
The board has clarified that the third language will not have an external examination. Instead, all assessments for this language will be conducted internally by the schools. Successful completion of this internal assessment is a requirement for students to receive their final secondary education certificate.
This internal evaluation system is designed to balance learning with student welfare. It allows schools flexibility in assessing language proficiency without the pressure of a board examination.
Three-Language Framework Details
The CBSE three-language framework designates three levels of language study:
- R1 (First Language): This is the primary academic language, typically English or Hindi, offered by CBSE.
- R2 (Second Language): This language must be different from the language chosen as R1.
- R3 (Third Language): This language must also be distinct from R1 and R2. Two of the three chosen languages must be Indian languages.
Assessment and Exemptions
The assessment for the third language follows a specific protocol:
- Internal Evaluation Only: Marks obtained in the internal assessment will appear on the final CBSE certificate.
- Qualification Requirement: Students must qualify in the internal assessment to receive their secondary education certificate.
Specific exemptions are in place for certain student groups. Children with Special Needs (CwSN) and students returning from foreign countries may be eligible for exemptions from this policy. Schools will manage the application and approval process for these exemptions.
| Linguistic Level | Mandate Details |
| R1 (First Language) | Primary academic language (e.g., English or Hindi). |
| R2 (Second Language) | Must be distinct from R1. |
| R3 (Third Language) | Must be distinct from R1 and R2. Two must be native Indian languages. |
| Assessment System | Internal evaluation only; marks on final certificate. |
| Exemptions | For Children with Special Needs (CwSN) and foreign return students. |
