CBSE Mandates Three Language Study for Class 9 from July 1, Two Must Be Indian Languages

In a significant academic reform aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 , the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made the study of three languages compulsory for students of Class 9 starting July 1, 2026.

As per the latest circular issued by the board, students will now study three languages, referred to as R1, R2 and R3, with a key requirement that at least two of them must be native Indian languages . The move aims to strengthen multilingual learning and promote Indian languages among school students.

Under the new framework, students may choose a foreign language only as the third language or opt for it as an additional fourth language, provided they first complete the requirement of two Indian languages.

To ease academic pressure, CBSE has clarified that no board examination will be conducted for the third language at the Class 10 level . Instead, assessment for R3 will be entirely school based and internal , and the performance will be reflected in the final CBSE certificate.

The board has also confirmed that no student will be prevented from appearing in the Class 10 board examinations due to the third language requirement. Schools will soon receive sample question papers and assessment guidelines to support implementation.

To ensure smooth rollout, CBSE has directed schools to update their language offerings for Classes 6 to 9 on the OASIS portal by June 30. Institutions facing shortages of qualified language teachers have been advised to adopt interim solutions such as inter school resource sharing, virtual teaching support, and engagement of retired educators or qualified postgraduate teachers.

Special provisions have also been announced for Children With Special Needs , in line with the Rights of Persons With Disabilities Act 2016 , while foreign students returning to India may receive case by case exemptions from the two Indian language requirement.

The move marks a major step toward expanding linguistic diversity in classrooms while balancing academic flexibility for students across the country.