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CBSE Makes Three-Language Formula Mandatory from 2026-27, Excludes R3 from Class 10 Board Exams

Target:UPSC GS-IIMPSCSSC GATeachingPrelims HighMains MediumStatic GK Link
16 May 2026
~2 min
Source: Indian Express
Key Data:1st July 20262026-27June 30
Bodies:CBSE
Practice MCQs from today's news ▸
What This Article Covers

1.CBSE mandates three languages (R1, R2, R3) for Class 9 from 2026-27, with at least two being native Indian languages.

2.The third language (R3) will be assessed through school-based internal exams and will NOT be a Board Examination subject in Class 10.

3.The policy includes flexibilities for foreign language study, resource-sharing for teacher shortages, and relaxations for special needs and foreign students.

The Big Picture
Prelims · HighMains · Medium

CBSE has made the three-language formula compulsory for Class 9 students from the 2026-27 academic session, requiring at least two native Indian languages. Crucially, the third language (R3) will be assessed internally by schools and will not be part of the Class 10 Board Examinations, aiming to reduce student pressure.

Exam Lens

Quick Exam Facts From News

Effective Date1st July 2026
Class 9 Academic Session2026-27
Portal Update DeadlineJune 30
Class 10 R3 AssessmentSchool-based internal

1-Minute Revision

  • ›Effective Date: 1st July 2026
  • ›Class 9 Academic Session: 2026-27
  • ›Target this Data: Mandatory from 1st July 2026 for Class 9 (2026-27 session).
  • ›Target this Nodal Body: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
  • ›Target this Legal Point: The three-language formula as advocated in National Education Policy (NEP).

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Practice exam-style questions, track your score, and strengthen your recall.

Q1Static LinkageEasy

Which national-level board of education has made the three-language formula mandatory for Class 9 from 2026?

Q2Statement-basedHard

Consider the following statements regarding CBSE's new language policy:

1. Students entering Class 9 from 2026-27 must study three languages, with at least two being native Indian languages.

2. The third language (R3) will be evaluated through a centralized CBSE Board Examination in Class 10.

3. Schools have been asked to update their language options on the OASIS portal by June 30.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q3Data-centricMedium

From which date does the CBSE's mandate for the three-language formula in Class 9 become effective?

Q4Application/ImpactMedium

What is a primary reason cited by CBSE for not making the third language (R3) a Board Examination subject in Class 10?

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