CBSE will introduce the Third Language system in phases from 2026. The board says the new policy will support multilingual learning and promote Indian languages in schools.
CBSE has announced a major change in the secondary education system. The board will introduce a Third Language called R3 for Class 9 students from the 2026–27 academic session under NCFSE 2023 and NEP 2020. The new policy aims to strengthen multilingual learning and encourage students to study more Indian languages.
The board said the new language system will help students connect with India’s linguistic diversity. CBSE also wants every student to study at least two native Indian languages during school education.
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What the New CBSE Third Language Rule Means for Students
Under the new framework students will study three language levels called R1 R2 and R3. CBSE said students cannot choose the same language in more than one level.
The board will start the new system in phases. In 2026–27 the R3 language will become compulsory for Class 9 students. In 2027–28 the rule will expand to Class 10 students as well. From 2028–29 onwards the third language system will become fully compulsory for both Class 9 and Class 10 students.
CBSE Will Not Conduct a Separate Board Exam for R3
CBSE clarified that schools will conduct the assessment for R3 internally. The board will not hold a separate Class 10 board exam for the third language subject.
However students must successfully complete R3 to receive CBSE certification. The board said schools will assess students through internal evaluation methods.
What Languages Students Can Choose
CBSE said students can choose from Hindi English and 42 other languages offered by the board. These include languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution along with several Indian and foreign languages.
The board also shared examples of language combinations:
- Hindi as R1 English as R2 Malayalam as R3
- English as R1 Bengali as R2 Hindi as R3
- Telugu as R1 English as R2 Sanskrit as R3
CBSE said students who did not study even one native Indian language in Classes 6 to 8 must study a native Indian language as R3.
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How the Transition Phase Will Work
CBSE has planned a gradual rollout for the new system. Students entering Class 9 in 2026–27 will study Class 6 level R3 textbooks during the transition phase. Students entering Class 10 in 2027–28 will study Class 7 level R3 textbooks.
The board also said schools will include one local literary text during the transition period.
Schools Will Get Flexibility During Implementation
CBSE acknowledged concerns about teacher shortages and curriculum pressure. The board said schools can use shared teachers digital classrooms retired language teachers and guest faculty if needed.
CBSE also clarified that the R3 course will require only two to three periods per week. The board said the focus will remain on reading speaking and basic fluency instead of heavy grammar and writing work.
Special Provisions for Some Students
The board has provided exemptions and special support for some groups of students. Children with Special Needs may receive exemptions under RPwD Act 2016.
CBSE schools in foreign countries will not need to follow the rule of studying two native Indian languages. Foreign and transient students may also receive case based exemptions.
CBSE Will Share More Resources Soon
CBSE said it will release sample question papers and internal assessment rubrics for R3 during the transition phase. The board will also make textbooks available in phases before implementation begins.
Scheme of Studies/Curriculum is available
The new policy marks one of the biggest curriculum changes in recent years. Through this move CBSE aims to promote multilingual learning while giving schools enough flexibility during implementation.
