relief-for-cbse-students-over-three-language-policy

In a major relief for lakhs of students, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clarified that those currently studying in Classes 7 to 9 who have opted for two foreign languages under the three-language formula will be allowed to continue with their existing language combination until Class 10.

 

The decision comes more than a month after the CBSE announced that, from July 1, students entering Class 9 would be required to study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

 

Several students and parents had challenged the Board's May 15 circular in court, raising concerns over the retrospective application of the revised language policy.

 

A senior CBSE official said the revised requirement would apply only prospectively.

 

"The requirement of studying at least two Indian languages under the new language policy will be implemented prospectively from Class 6 and will not be applied retrospectively to students already studying in Classes 7 to 9," the official said.

Also read: SC refuses stay on CBSE’s 3-language policy

The official added that a formal notification clarifying the decision would be issued shortly.

 

Under the circular issued on May 15, students opting for a foreign language would be permitted to do so only as the third language after studying two native Indian languages, or as an optional fourth language. The Board had also stated that, until dedicated R3 textbooks become available, Class 9 students should use the 2026-27 edition of the Class 6 R3 textbooks for the chosen language.

 

The revised language policy forms part of the CBSE's efforts to align its curriculum with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.

 

In April, the Board also announced the phased rollout of the three-language formula from Class 6 and introduced a two-level system for mathematics and science from the 2026-27 academic session. Under the new structure, students will study standard and optional advanced courses, with the first Class 10 board examinations under the revised system scheduled for 2028.