CBSE's New Multilingual Curriculum: A Leap Towards NEP 2020

The CBSE has mandated the study of three languages, including at least two native Indian ones, for Class 9 students starting July 1, 2026. Aligning with NEP 2020, no board exam will be held for the third language. Schools must update language offerings by June 30, amid staffing challenges.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a significant change in its curriculum by making the study of three languages compulsory for Class 9 students. This includes at least two native Indian languages, a directive set to take effect from July 1, 2026. The decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.

According to a circular released on May 15, students opting for a foreign language can do so only as a third language or an additional fourth language. Importantly, no board exam will be conducted for the third language, focusing instead on internal assessments that will be reflected in students' CBSE certificates.

Schools are required to update their language offerings by June 30 on the OASIS portal, with possible interim solutions for teacher shortages. Special provisions will be made for children with special needs and returning foreign students may receive exemptions. This move follows CBSE's phased implementation of the three-language formula starting from Class 6.