CBSE has issued new guidelines for implementation of the Three Language Policy under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to promote Indian languages.
Under this policy, students will study three languages, including at least two Indian languages (Bhartiya Pashas). The third language can be either an Indian language or a foreign language such as English, French, German, Spanish or Arabic.
Who will follow what?
There will be no change for students currently in Term X (2026-27). They will continue with the current bilingual system and will not be required to study a third language.
Students in the ninth semester (2026-2027) will study three languages, with at least two Indian languages. Those who are already studying two foreign languages can continue but must add one Indian language. For this batch, the third language will be assessed at school level only and there will be no CBSE board examination in Class X.
For students in grades 7 and 8 (2026-2027), the same structure will apply as they move to higher grades. They will also need to add one Indian language if they are already studying two foreign languages, and the third language will not have a board test.
Students entering the sixth semester in the 2026-27 academic year will be the first full batch under the new system. They will study three languages, including at least two Hindi, and will sit the board examination in the third language when they reach Class X. The requirements for the board examination will apply to this batch and all subsequent batches.
Also Read: Three Language Policy: CBSE gives one-time exemption to existing Class 9 students
Exemptions
Certain categories are exempted, including children with special needs, CBSE schools outside India, and foreign students returning to India. Students who change states can continue with their current language choices, with schools required to provide support.
CBSE also said schools may use current teachers, retired teachers, postgraduate teachers or co-teaching models through groups and digital platforms to implement the policy.
Earlier vs new policy
On April 2, CBSE proposed a gradual introduction of the three-language formula starting from Class VI in 2026-27, with full implementation up to Class 10 by 2030-31, indicating a gradual transition framework.
This was followed by a circular issued on May 15 directing schools to make three languages (R1, R2 and R3) compulsory for Class IX students from July 1, stating that at least two must be Hindi. The circular also advised schools to use sixth grade R3 textbooks in the meantime, noting that there was a 75-80% overlap in language competencies between the middle and high school levels.
However, the May directive raised concerns in schools about preparedness and academic logistics, especially as it appeared to be ahead of earlier expectations that implementation would be in line with the release of dedicated NCERT textbooks and a more prepared rollout framework.
(With inputs from Sanjay Maurya)
