CBSE Implements Mandatory Three-Language Policy for Class 9 from 2026-27

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a new policy requiring Class 9 students to study three languages starting from the 2026-27 academic year. While students must include at least two Indian languages, there will be no Board examination for the third language in Class 10. This initiative aims to reduce pressure on students and enhance their learning experience. Schools are required to update their language options by June 30, 2026, ensuring compliance with the new regulations. The policy also allows for foreign language options under specific conditions. Read on for more details about this significant educational reform.

By Ambika Singh May 18, 2026, 11:16 IST

New Language Policy Announcement

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that starting from the academic year 2026-27, students in Class 9 will be required to adopt a three-language curriculum. In a significant relief for students, the Board has confirmed that there will be no Board examination for the third language (R3) in Class 10. This decision aims to alleviate pressure on students, focusing solely on the learning aspect of the language.

According to the new guidelines, all students entering Class 9 from the 2026-27 session must study three languages, with a requirement to include at least two Indian languages. This policy will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Examination Policy for Class 10

As these students progress to Class 10 the following year, they will still need to study the third language; however, it will not be assessed through a Board examination. The CBSE emphasized that this approach is designed to keep students focused on learning without the added stress of examinations for R3 at the Class 10 level.

Mandatory Indian Languages with Foreign Language Option

**Two Indian Languages Required Even with a Foreign Language Choice**

This means that while the third language will be evaluated at the school level, it will not have a separate examination paper in the Class 10 Board assessments. Students wishing to study a foreign language can do so as their third language, provided that the other two languages are Indian. Additionally, a foreign language can also be taken as an optional fourth language.

School Compliance and Language Selection

**Schools Must Update Language Options by June 30**

CBSE has allowed schools to choose the third language from a selection of 19 languages. It is mandatory for schools to ensure that at least two of the three languages chosen are Indian. All educational institutions are required to update their language preferences on the OASIS portal by June 30. Furthermore, exemptions regarding the third-language requirement will be available for students with special needs, foreign nationals, and CBSE-affiliated schools located abroad.