CBSE clarifies third language rule for classes 9 and 10; school assessment mandatory

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clarified that students entering Class 9 in the 2026–27 academic session must study three languages, with at least two being Indian languages, under its revised language policy.

While the third language (R3) will not be part of the Class 10 Board examination, students must successfully complete a school-based internal assessment to receive their CBSE Secondary School Examination Pass Certificate.

According to the Board, students who do not clear the internal assessment in the third language will be given an opportunity for re-assessment before the Class 10 results are declared. CBSE also clarified that students currently in Class 10 (2026–27) will continue under the existing two-language system and are not required to study a third language. The revised policy applies only to students who are currently in Class 9 and subsequent batches.

The clarification comes amid ongoing discussions over the implementation of the three-language policy introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP). CBSE has said NCERT has already made language learning resources available to help schools and students implement the new framework smoothly.