The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it compulsory for schools to introduce a third language from Class 6, starting the 2026–27 academic session. In a circular issued on April 9, the board termed the directive “urgent and mandatory” and asked schools to implement it within seven days.
CBSE noted that while many schools have already adopted the system, the remaining institutions must begin immediately. Schools have been instructed not to delay implementation even if textbooks are unavailable, and instead use locally available books or study materials to start teaching the third language.
The board has also directed schools to officially declare the language they choose and update the details on the OASIS portal. Regional CBSE offices will monitor compliance to ensure the directive is followed.
Importantly, the third language introduced in Class 6 will continue through Classes 9 and 10, meaning students will not have the option to change it later.
Schools have been advised to make this decision carefully, keeping students’ long-term academic needs in mind.