CBSE Eases Third Language Rule: No Board Exam for Current Class 9 Students
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clarified that students currently in Class 9 will not be required to take a board examination in the third language when they reach Class 10. This relaxation is part of a transitional arrangement as the Board aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Under the new guidelines, which will take effect from the 2026-27 academic session, students entering Class 9 will need to study three languages, with at least two being Indian languages (Bhartiya Bhashas). However, for the current Class 9 batch, the third language will be assessed only through internal school evaluation and will not be part of the CBSE board examination in 2027-28.
The relaxation also extends to students in Classes 7 and 8. Those who have already opted for two foreign languages can continue with them but must add one Indian language. They too will not face a board exam in the third language when they reach Class 10.
CBSE stated that this move ensures a smooth transition to the new language policy without disrupting students already studying under the existing system. The three-language formula, recommended by the NEP 2020, aims to promote multilingualism and encourage learning of Indian languages. It does not mandate any specific language but requires at least two Indian languages.
Under the framework, students already studying two Indian languages may choose another Indian language or a foreign language (e.g., English, French, German) as their third language. Those studying one Indian language and one foreign language must pick an additional Indian language.
Certain categories are exempt from the compulsory Indian third language requirement, including children with special needs under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, CBSE schools located outside India, and foreign students returning to India.
CBSE assured that grade-appropriate learning material will be made available and schools will be supported in implementation. “No student shall be disadvantaged due to this alignment. The focus remains on joyful, meaningful language learning, not on examination,” the Board said.
