Students currently studying in Classes 7, 8, and 9 under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will not be required to change their existing language combinations midway through their schooling. This move provides clarity and reassurance for students who have already opted for two foreign languages under the current curriculum.

No Mid-Year Language Changes

The phased implementation means that students already enrolled in higher classes can continue studying their present language combinations until they complete their Class 10 board examinations.

• Students currently in Class 9 can continue their existing language subjects until the 2028 board examinations.
• Students presently in Class 8 will continue until their Class 10 exams in 2029.
• Students in Class 7 can retain their language choices until their board examinations in 2030.

CBSE is expected to issue a revised notification after discussions within its governing council to formally explain the transition process.

Why the Clarification Was Needed

The earlier communication regarding the implementation of the language policy had created uncertainty among schools and parents. Many institutions feared that students might have to discontinue a foreign language they had studied for several years and replace it with an Indian language in the middle of secondary education. Such a move could have caused academic disruption for students and administrative challenges for schools.

Three-Language Formula Under NEP 2020

Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, students in Classes 6 to 8 are expected to study three languages. Going forward, students entering Class 6 will study three languages, with at least two being Indian languages.

Education authorities have also noted that most school boards across the country already follow the three-language pattern. Within CBSE, only a small percentage of students currently study two foreign languages, and these students will be allowed to continue under the existing arrangement until Class 10.

Learning Resources

To support the new policy, grade-appropriate textbooks will be made available in 22 Indian languages. CBSE will also work on ensuring adequate teaching staff and educational resources required for smooth implementation.

Foreign Languages Still Allowed

The updated policy does not eliminate foreign language education. Schools may continue offering foreign languages, and students can still choose an additional fourth language if available. The focus is on ensuring that Indian languages remain a central part of school education.

Greater Focus on Vocational Education

Apart from language reforms, CBSE is also strengthening vocational education across schools.

• Students in Classes 6–8 will participate in approximately 110 hours of skill-based learning every year.
• Schools will establish skill laboratories and conduct vocational modules.
• For Classes 9 and 10, studying a vocational subject will become mandatory and will be included in assessments.
• In Classes 11 and 12, vocational subjects will remain optional while receiving greater emphasis.

Proposal Under Consideration

CBSE is also examining whether students may be allowed to choose a foreign language instead of the compulsory vocational subject up to Class 10. However, this proposal is still under discussion, and no final decision has been announced.