CBSE Clarifies Three-Language Policy Under NEP 2020; Current Class 10 Students Exempt
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- Jun 29, 2026
- 139
CBSE Issues Fresh Guidelines on Three-Language Formula, Announces One-Time Relaxation for Existing Students
The Central Board of Secondary Education
CBSE has released detailed guidelines on the implementation of the three-language formula under the National Education Policy 2020 bringing clarity for lakhs of students across the country.
In a significant relief for students, the board has announced that the revised three-language policy will not apply to students currently studying in Class 10. Moreover, students presently enrolled in Classes 7, 8 and 9 will not be required to appear for a third-language board examination when they reach Class 10.
Also Read: CBSE On-Screen Marking System 2026: Students Raise Concerns Over Digital Evaluation Accuracy
One-Time Exemption for Current Class 9 Students
CBSE Academic Director Pragya M. Singh said that students studying in Class 9 during the 2026-27 academic session will receive a one-time exemption. These students may continue studying two foreign languages, but they will be required to include an Indian language as a third language.
Importantly, this additional Indian language will be assessed internally by schools and will not be included as a subject in the Class 10 board examination.
New Rules to Apply From Class 6 Batch of 2026-27
The board has confirmed that beginning with the 2026-27 academic session, all students entering Class 6 and subsequent batches must study three languages. Out of these, at least two languages must be Indian languages.
Also Read: Tripura Congress Alleges Education and Employment Failures, Cites NITI Aayog Report
https://thetripurapost.com/NewsTripuraPost/tripura-congress-alleges-education-and-employment-failures-cites-niti-aayog-report-3277.html
Students covered under the new framework will also have to appear for a board examination in the third language after reaching Class 10.
Students Changing States Get Relief
CBSE has also provided flexibility for students who relocate to another state. Such students will be allowed to continue studying their existing third language (R3) until Class 9, ensuring continuity in learning.
Exemptions for Foreign Students and Children With Disabilities
The board clarified that students studying abroad and foreign nationals returning to India will be exempt from studying an Indian language as their third language.
Existing exemptions available for Children with Special Needs (CWSN) and students with disabilities will continue without any changes.
Schools Asked to Use Hybrid Teaching Models
To facilitate smooth implementation of the policy, CBSE has advised schools to utilise available teaching resources, including existing teachers, retired educators, Sahodaya school clusters and hybrid learning methods.
CBSE and NCERT will also provide class-specific teaching materials. Textbooks for the third language in Class 6 have already been prepared in 22 scheduled Indian languages.
Earlier Announcements by CBSE
In April, CBSE announced the phased implementation of the three-language formula from Class 6 onwards starting from the 2026-27 academic session.
The board had also introduced a two-tier system—Standard and Advanced—for Mathematics and Science in Class 9. While all students will appear for a common 80-mark examination, students seeking advanced proficiency can opt for additional advanced papers.
The first Class 10 board examination under this revised framework is scheduled to be conducted in 2028.
CBSE and NCERT Preparing Books in 19 Languages
CBSE and NCERT are jointly developing textbooks for the third language component in 19 Indian languages, including Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Tamil and Telugu, among others.
NEP 2020: India's Biggest Education Reform in Over Three Decades
The National Education Policy 2020 was approved by the Government of India on July 29, 2020, marking the most significant reform in India's education sector in 34 years.
Replacing the National Education Policy of 1986, revised in 1992, NEP 2020 aims to modernise India's education system by promoting experiential learning, skill development and practical knowledge suited to the demands of the 21st century.
The Central Government has targeted full implementation of the policy by 2030. Since education falls under the Concurrent List of the Constitution, both the Centre and state governments share responsibility for implementing the reforms through consultation and consensus
The Tripura Post is a digital news platform covering Tripura, Northeast, National, International, Sports, Business and Education news