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CBSE's New Language Policy Sparks Concerns Among Students and Parents

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the 'Three-Language Formula' in schools, effective July 1st, requiring students to learn a third foreign language. This decision, part of the National Education Policy, has raised significant concerns among students and parents, who fear added pressure and disruption to existing language studies. Many argue that the policy should have been gradually implemented, starting from earlier grades, to ease the transition. School administrators are also worried about the logistical challenges and financial implications of hiring additional language teachers. The reactions highlight the complexities of educational reforms and their impact on students' academic journeys.
By Ambika Singh May 24, 2026, 10:40 IST
CBSE's New Language Policy Sparks Concerns Among Students and Parents

Introduction of the Three-Language Formula



The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the implementation of the 'Three-Language Formula' in all schools nationwide, starting July 1st. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education.


New Language Requirements

As per the CBSE's new guidelines, students will now be mandated to learn a third foreign language alongside two Indian languages. Notably, English has been classified as a foreign language, allowing students to choose from options like Japanese, Korean, French, or German as their third language, in addition to English.


Concerns from Students and Parents

The announcement has led to rising anxiety among students eager to learn a foreign language of their preference. Under the revised rules, students can only pursue such languages as a *fourth* language, contingent on their school's offerings. This has prompted significant backlash from students, parents, and educators, who argue that the change adds unnecessary pressure on children.


Impact on Students' Language Studies

A Class 9 student in Delhi, who has been studying German for three years with aspirations of working in Germany's automobile sector, expressed frustration over the new policy. His father questioned how his son could transition to studying Sanskrit after dedicating years to German.


Another parent highlighted that her son might have to abandon his French studies due to the new regulations, which she believes distracts from his core academic focus. She emphasized that introducing a new language is more effective during early education, suggesting that CBSE should have implemented this policy for younger students.


Gradual Implementation Suggested

Abhilasha, a concerned mother, suggested that the CBSE should have phased in this policy starting from Class 6 rather than making abrupt changes. She pointed out that her daughter, who has been learning German for three years, now faces uncertainty about her second language options.


School Administrators' Response

In light of the new CBSE regulations, school administrators have indicated that they will need to incorporate an additional 6 to 7 periods per week for the second language. This adjustment will necessitate changes to the school timetable, impacting periods allocated for sports, library activities, and life skills. Furthermore, schools may need to hire qualified teachers for these new language courses, potentially increasing financial strain on the institutions.


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