CBSE Makes Three Languages Compulsory For Class 9 Students
CBSE Three-Language Rule For Class 9 From July 1
CBSE three-language rule 2026 will come into effect for Class 9 students from July 1, 2026, under the board’s revised language policy. As per the latest notification issued on May 15, 2026, students from the 2026–27 academic year will have to study three languages. The rule will apply to all CBSE-affiliated schools.
Two Indian Languages Made Mandatory
Under the new structure, students will study three languages called R1, R2, and R3. CBSE has made it compulsory that at least two of these must be native Indian languages. Students who want to study a foreign language can choose it as the third language only if the other two languages are Indian languages. A foreign language may also be taken as an additional fourth subject.
No Class 10 Board Exam For Third Language
CBSE has clarified that there will be no board exam for the third language in Class 10. The R3 assessment will be conducted internally by schools, and the performance will be mentioned in the final certificate. No student will be barred from appearing in Class 10 board exams due to the third language.
Flexible Rollout For Schools
Since the academic year has already started, CBSE will follow a transitional approach. Schools may use hybrid teaching, shared resources, retired teachers, or proficient subject teachers to manage language classes. Schools must update their language options on the OASIS portal by June 30, 2026. CBSE is also expected to issue teaching guidelines by June 15.
