CBSE Circular: Guidelines on Three-Language Policy under NEP 2020 (Session 2026-27)

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued detailed guidelines for implementing the Three-Language Policy in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 from the Academic Session 2026-27.

According to the guidelines, students currently studying in Class X (2026-27) will continue under the existing two-language system and will not be affected by the new policy.

Students entering Class IX will study three languages, with at least two being Bhartiya Bhashas (Indian Languages). During the transition period, CBSE has provided relaxations for students already studying foreign languages.

• Current Class X students will continue with the existing two-language system.
• Class IX students will study three languages, with at least two Indian languages.
• The third language will be assessed internally by schools.
• No CBSE Board Examination will be conducted for the third language for current Class VII, VIII, and IX batches.
• Special transitional relaxations have been provided for students already studying two foreign languages.
• CBSE and NCERT will provide learning resources to support language education.
• Special exemptions have been provided for CwSN, CBSE schools abroad, and eligible foreign students.
• Schools may use flexible staffing arrangements, including retired teachers, Sahodaya clusters, and virtual teaching.

The guidelines aim to promote multilingual learning while ensuring that no student is disadvantaged during the transition to the new language policy. Schools have been advised to communicate these changes positively to students and parents.

Issued By: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)