Delhi Class 9 students will face new academic rules starting the 2026-27 academic year. The Delhi government mandates vocational education and a third language for all students. These changes aim for a skill-based and flexible curriculum. The new rules affect subject requirements and promotion criteria.
New Subject Structure
Students will study six core subjects. These include two languages, Mathematics, and Science. Social Science is the fifth subject. Vocational Education becomes the sixth mandatory subject. This aims to equip students with practical skills early.
Third Language Requirement
A third language is now compulsory. Schools will follow the language choices used in Class 8. This subject will be assessed as 'qualified' or 'not qualified'. Passing the third language is necessary for promotion to Class 10 board exams. The requirement builds language proficiency.
Promotion Rules and Assessments
Students need 33% marks in internal and external assessments across all six subjects. They must also achieve 25% in the annual exam. Students failing up to three subjects can attempt a compartment test. Failure to pass the compartment test means repeating Class 9.
Advanced Test Option
An optional advanced test is available in Mathematics or Science. This test lasts one hour and has 25 marks. It focuses on higher-order thinking skills. Scores on this test do not affect promotion or the overall aggregate. Students scoring 50% or higher receive a mention on their mark sheet.
Curriculum Updates
The previous distinction of Mathematics Basics and Standard is removed for Class 9 from 2026-27. This system remains for Class 10 students this year. Art Education, Physical Education, Well Being, and Individuals in Society are now compulsory learning areas. Computational thinking and Artificial Intelligence will be introduced in 2026-27. These topics will become a full subject by 2027-28.
