New Delhi: In a major change to the language scheme, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made three languages compulsory for students of classes IX and X for the 2026-27 academic session.
In a circular dated May 15, the CBSE announced that the study of three languages – R1, R2 and R3 – would be compulsory in classes IX and X with effect from July 1, 2025.
At least two languages will have to be native Indian languages.
Students who wish to study a foreign language can take it up as the third language, or as an additional fourth language.
CBSE said the revised structure has been aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.
“Given that the current academic session commenced in April 2026, CBSE has decided to adopt a transitional approach to align its Scheme of Studies with the NCERT syllabus,” the board said in its official notice, and directed all schools to carefully read the updated curriculum goals, competencies and learning outcomes for language education.
CBSE highlighted in its circular that there was a 75-80% overlap in core language competencies between middle stage and secondary stage education, including reading comprehension, written expression, and grammatical awareness.
Till the time dedicated R3 textbooks are available, Class IX students will use Class VI R3 textbooks (2026-27 edition) of the chosen language.
Class VI R3 textbooks in 19 scheduled languages will be made available to schools before July 1, CBSE informed. Detailed guidelines on selection and pedagogical use of supplementary literary material will be issued by June 15.
