CBSE 3-language rule for Class IX to start July 1, 2026; R3 no Class X board exam

From July 1, 2026, Class IX will follow the three-language structure (R1, R2, R3) with at least two of the three languages being native Indian languages. Schools can choose any language from the CBSE approved list, but foreign languages can be taken only as the third language (if the first two are Indian) or as an optional fourth language depending on the school setup. The third language (R3) will be assessed internally in schools, and no CBSE board examination for R3 will occur in Class X; the performance in R3 will be included in the CBSE certificate. If needed, schools will use interim arrangements such as shared resources, virtual classes, or engagement of retired teachers/postgraduates to support delivery. There will be no barrier to Class X board participation on grounds of the third language. The policy remains aligned with NEP 2020 and NCF-SE 2023, and relaxations may be granted case-by-case for CwSN, international branches, and returning students.

CBSE released a circular on May 15, 2026 stating that from July 1, 2026, Class IX must study three languages (R1, R2, R3) with at least two languages being native Indian languages. It clarifies that there will be no CBSE board examination for the third language (R3) in Class X; instead, R3 assessments will be entirely school-based and reflected in the CBSE certificate. Schools may offer any language from the approved list, with foreign languages allowed only as the third language or as an optional fourth language depending on school structure. For implementation, Class IX students will temporarily use Class VI textbooks for R3 until new books are introduced; local or state literature should be included; and interim solutions for teacher shortages (resource sharing, virtual classes, retired teachers or postgraduates) are permitted. Relaxations will be provided on a case-by-case basis for CwSN, schools outside India, and returning foreign students.