CBSE Three-Language Policy: Classes 7-9 Retain Two Foreign Languages

Students in Classes 7 to 9 of the Central Board of Secondary Education, who have opted to learn two foreign languages according to the three-language formula, will now get to retain the language combination until Class 10. The decision has been made known today by CBSE authorities.

This came after the Central Board of Secondary Education announced earlier that studying three languages, including two native Indian languages, would become mandatory for Class 9 students as of July 1.

It is reported that several students and parents approached the court regarding the CBSE order. “While the requirement of studying at least two Indian languages under the new language policy will be implemented prospectively from Class 6, the same will not be retrospectively applicable to students who are already enrolled in Classes 7 to 9,” said a senior board official.

“The official notification to this effect will be issued shortly,” the official added.

The Board, in May, stated that until the separate R3 books were released, Class 9 students would make use of the R3 textbooks (2026-27 edition) for their chosen language.

This comes as part of the Central Board of Secondary Education’s move to harmonize its curriculum with that of the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.

In a notice released on May 15, it was said that students wishing to study a foreign language could do so only as a third language after having studied two native Indian languages or as a fourth optional language.

Earlier in April, CBSE released its plans for the phased introduction of the three-language formula starting from Class 6 and a two-level system for mathematics and science in Class 9 starting from the 2026-27 academic year.

The CBSE move proposes a two-level system where mathematics and science subjects will have two levels – mandatory standard level and an optional advanced level. While all students will appear for a common 80-mark test, the advanced level examination would help the students prove themselves to be proficient in the subject.

The CBSE has stated that the first Class 10 board examinations under the new two-level system would be held in 2028 for the batch which completes Class 9 in 2026-27 academic year.