The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a major update to the school curriculum by introducing a new three-language policy at the secondary level.
This change is part of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, aimed at promoting multilingual learning. Under this system, students will study three languages at different stages to improve language skills and encourage diversity.
What is the new 3-language system?
CBSE has divided language learning into three categories:
- R1: Students can choose any language offered by CBSE
- R2: A second language, different from R1
- R3: A third language, different from both R1 and R2
Importantly, at least two of the three languages must be Indian languages.
When will it be implemented?
The third language (R3) will be introduced gradually starting from the 2026–27 academic session:
- 2026–27: Class 6
- 2027–28: Classes 6 & 7
- 2028–29: Classes 6, 7 & 8
- 2029–30: Classes 6 to 9
- 2030–31: Classes 6 to 10
This phased rollout ensures all students eventually learn at least two Indian languages.
Changes for Classes 9 and 10
- Students will have to study three languages
- R1 and R2 must be different
- The same language cannot be chosen at two levels
Same textbook, different exams
For now, CBSE will use the same textbook for R1 and R2. However, the syllabus and exam pattern will differ for each level. Separate textbooks will be introduced later by NCERT.
Passing rule for Class 10
Students must study three languages up to Class 8. Failing the third language will make them ineligible to appear for the Class 10 board exams. This rule is especially important for students currently in Class 7 or above.
Full implementation timeline
The policy will be fully in place by the 2029–30 academic session, when the third language is included up to Class 9.
What about regional languages?
Until NCERT releases new textbooks, state board books will continue to be used for regional languages in Classes 9 and 10.
Overall, this move is a major education reform aimed at making students multilingual, strengthening Indian languages, and aligning with the vision of NEP 2020.