Revamping School Education: NCERT Introduces New Syllabus for Grades 9-12

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is set to implement a new syllabus for grades 9 to 12 starting in the 2026-27 academic session. This initiative includes the development of new textbooks and a mandatory bridge course for students transitioning from the old curriculum. The new syllabus, based on the National Curriculum Framework, emphasizes experiential learning and reduced content. Textbooks for grades 9 and 11 will be available in February, while those for grades 10 and 12 will follow in July. This article explores the details of these changes and their implications for students.

By Ambika Singh Nov 4, 2025, 12:58 IST

Introduction to NCERT's New Curriculum

NCERT New Books: Significant transformations are on the horizon for the school education framework in India. A revised syllabus for students in grades 9 through 12 is set to be rolled out. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has initiated this process. An expert committee within NCERT is currently developing new textbooks that align with the updated syllabus for these grades. Following the introduction of the new curriculum, certain students will need to participate in a bridge course. Previously, NCERT had already released books for grades 1 to 8 that correspond to the new syllabus, which are now in effect.

Key Details About the New Syllabus

Let's delve into the reasons behind the development of the new syllabus for grades 9 to 12, the timeline for its implementation, the availability of the new textbooks, and the students who will be required to complete the bridge course.

The new syllabus will be implemented starting from the 2026 academic session, with textbooks available beforehand.

The updated syllabus for grades 9 to 12 is scheduled for implementation in the 2026-27 academic year. In preparation, NCERT's expert committee is working on new textbooks that will adhere to this syllabus. Reports indicate that these new textbooks will be accessible after February of the upcoming year. Specifically, textbooks for grades 9 and 11 are expected to be available in February, while those for grades 10 and 12 will be released by July.

Foundation of the New Syllabus

New Syllabus Based on NCF
NCERT is crafting the new syllabus for grades 9 to 12 in accordance with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF). The NCF emphasizes a reduction in content volume, shifting the focus towards experiential learning through activities and visual aids.

Bridge Course Requirements

Students Required to Undertake a Bridge Course
With the rollout of the new syllabus for grades 9 to 12, certain students will be mandated to complete a bridge course. This course aims to facilitate the transition between the old and new syllabi. NCERT is also developing materials specifically for this purpose.

Reports suggest that students entering grade 11 will need to finish a six-week bridge course. Likewise, those progressing from grade 9 to grade 10 will also be required to undertake this course, as they will transition from the old syllabus to the new one in grade 10.