17/05/2026
CBSE Language Policy 2026-27: Major Highlights for Classes IX & X Alignment with NEP 2020 & NCF-SE 2023
1. Three-Language Formula Made Compulsory
* From 1 July 2026, students of Class IX must study three languages (R1, R2, R3).
* Out of these three languages, at least two must be native Indian languages.
* Foreign languages can be chosen only:
* as the third language if the first two are Indian languages, or
* as an additional fourth language.
Focus on Stress-Free Learning
2. No Board Examination for R3 in Class X
* CBSE has clarified that:
* No Board Exam will be conducted for the R3 language in Class X.
* Assessment of R3 will be:
* school-based,
* internal,
* competency-focused.
* Performance in R3 will still be reflected in the CBSE certificate.
* Students will not be stopped from appearing in Class X Board Exams due to R3 performance.
Transition Arrangement for Schools
3. Temporary Use of Class VI Textbooks
* Until dedicated Class IX R3 books are developed:
* Schools will use Class VI R3 textbooks (2026-27 edition).
* Schools can supplement these books with:
* short stories,
* poems,
* local literature,
* non-fiction material.
Teacher Availability & Flexible Solutions
4. Schools Allowed Interim Arrangements
To manage shortage of language teachers, schools may:
* use teachers from other subjects having language proficiency,
* collaborate through Sahodaya clusters,
* conduct hybrid/virtual classes,
* engage retired language teachers,
* appoint qualified postgraduates temporarily.
School Autonomy in Language Selection
5. Schools Can Choose Languages
* Schools may select any language from the CBSE subject list.
* However, they must ensure compliance with:
* the three-language structure,
* two Indian language requirement.
Important OASIS Update
6. Deadline for Schools
* Schools must update their R3 language offerings on the OASIS portal for Classes VI to IX.
* Last date: 30 June 2026.
Inclusive & Student-Friendly Provisions
7. Relaxation for Special Categories
CBSE has provided flexibility for:
* Children With Special Needs (CwSN) under RPwD Act 2016.
* CBSE schools located outside India.
* Foreign students returning to India.
Such students may receive exemptions from second or third language requirements where applicable.
Academic & Pedagogical Focus
8. Emphasis on Skill-Based Language Learning
CBSE highlighted focus on:
* oral communication,
* reading comprehension,
* writing skills,
* grammar awareness,
* multilingual proficiency,
* cultural rootedness.
The policy aims to make language learning:
* joyful,
* meaningful,
* less examination-oriented.
Key Message from CBSE
9. No Student Will Be Disadvantaged
* CBSE clarified that these are transitional measures aligned with:
* NEP 2020,
* NCF-SE 2023.
* The objective is:
* reducing pressure,
* strengthening Indian languages,
* promoting multilingual education.