CBSE Implements New Language Policy for Students Starting Academic Year

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced the 'Three-Language Formula' for students starting from Class 6, mandating the study of three languages. This policy includes significant changes for Class 9 students, who will now select languages from newly defined R1 and R2 lists. The English curriculum has also been revised, with the introduction of a new textbook, 'Kaveri.' While the full implementation of these changes will not occur until the 2029-30 academic year, students can still opt for a third language until the 2028-29 session. Current Class 10 students will continue with their existing language choices and assessment patterns.

By Ambika Singh Apr 11, 2026, 09:17 IST

Introduction of the Three-Language Formula

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated that all affiliated schools adopt the 'Three-Language Formula' beginning this academic year. This policy requires students from Class 6 and above to learn three languages. Additionally, a circular has been released regarding the application of this formula for students in Classes 9 and 10, which will also take effect this academic session. Specifically, Class 9 students will only need to study two languages from the designated R1 and R2 lists. The CBSE has published the official language lists for these categories. However, the full implementation of the Three-Language Formula for Class 9 will not be enforced until the 2029-30 academic year. Until then, students in Class 9 can choose a third language from the R2 list until the 2028-29 session.

Details of the Language Lists

Let's explore the specifics of the language lists provided by the CBSE and the changes made to the curriculum.

**Revised English Curriculum: Introduction of 'Kaveri'**

The CBSE has made notable revisions to the English syllabus. The previous 'English Communicative' course has been entirely phased out for Class 9. Students will now be required to study a single English course, with the NCERT's new textbook titled 'Kaveri' being mandatory.

Language Selection for Class 9

**Language Choices for Class 9 Students**

Under the CBSE guidelines, Class 9 students must select two languages from the R1 and R2 lists. The languages chosen in Class 6 during the 2026-27 academic year will be the same languages they must continue studying in Classes 9 and 10. Consequently, these students will also be required to take their Class 10 Board examinations in those languages.

R1 and R2 Language Categories

**R1 Includes English and Hindi; R2 Offers 43 Languages**

To eliminate confusion regarding language selection under the 'Three-Language Formula', the CBSE has clarified the languages included in the R1 and R2 categories. The R1 category consists of English, Urdu, or Kannada, along with Hindi, and is considered the 'Main Language' category from which students must select one language. The R2 category comprises 43 regional languages, allowing students to choose one of these as their second language. Importantly, students cannot select the same language for both R1 and R2; for example, if Hindi is chosen in R1, a different language must be selected for R2.

Assessment Continuity for Current Class 10 Students

**Old Assessment Pattern for Current Class 10 Students**

These new regulations will not affect students currently in Class 10 during the 2026-27 academic year. The CBSE has confirmed that these students will continue with the languages they selected in Class 9 (during the 2025-26 session), and their assessment will follow the previous pattern.