CBSE Circular Summary: Language Scheme Realignment (Classes IX & X)

Important Updates for Academic Session 2026-27 Onwards

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released a transitional blueprint to successfully align secondary school language education with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.

1. Key Language Study Amendments

• Three Compulsory Languages: Effective July 1, 2026, Class IX students must study three compulsory languages (R1, R2, R3). At least two of these languages must be native Indian languages.
• Foreign Language Provision: Students can choose a foreign language as their third language (R3) only if R1 and R2 are native Indian languages. Alternatively, it can be taken as an additional fourth language.

2. Textbooks & Learning Resources

• Interim Textbooks: Because dedicated R3 textbooks for the Secondary Stage are currently unavailable, Class IX students will temporarily use the 2026-27 edition of Class VI R3 textbooks. This is supported by an analysis showing a 75-80% overlap in core language competencies between the stages.
• Supplementary Materials: Schools must supplement these books with locally or state-selected literary pieces (e.g., short stories, poems). CBSE will issue regulatory guidelines for selection by June 15, 2026.
• Language Availability: Textbooks for 19 scheduled languages will be distributed before July 1. For other regional native languages, schools can rely on existing SCERT or state resources.

3. Addressing Teacher Shortages

To assist schools experiencing immediate staffing constraints during this transition, CBSE has proposed multiple flexible models:

• Engaging current non-language teachers who exhibit functional proficiency in the specific native language.
• Sharing instructional resources via Sahodaya school clusters.
• Utilizing hybrid/virtual teaching support frameworks.
• Hiring qualified postgraduates or retired language educators.

4. Relaxation of Board Examination Pressure

• Internal School-Based Evaluation: To reduce academic stress, there will be no Class X Board Examination for the R3 language. Evaluation will remain entirely school-based and internal.
• Certification: The final performance marks for R3 will still be featured on the CBSE certificate. Failing or missing R3 will not bar any student from appearing in other Class X Board Examinations.

5. Exemptions and Portal Timelines

• Exemptions: Relaxations and exemptions are extended to Children with Special Needs (CwSN) per the RPwD Act 2016. Case-by-case exemptions from the dual native language mandate are available for foreign students returning to India and CBSE schools situated overseas.
• OASIS Portal Update: All affiliated schools must register and update their language profiles (R3 offerings) for Classes VI through IX on the OASIS portal by June 30, 2026.

Annexure I: List of 19 Offered Scheduled Languages

Need Help or Official Clarification?

Schools can directly connect with the CBSE Academic Unit via email at cq26-27@cbseshiksha.in or telephone support at 011-24050612.