Overview
- CBSE will require students entering Classes 9 and 10 in the 2026–27 session to study three languages labeled R1, R2 and R3 starting July 1, 2026.
- At least two of the three must be Indian languages, and any foreign language can only be chosen as the third language or as an optional fourth.
- The third language will not have a Class 10 Board exam, with schools conducting internal evaluation and the result shown on the CBSE certificate.
- Implementation steps include detailed rollout guidelines due by June 15 and schools updating third‑language choices for Classes 6–9 on the OASIS portal by June 30.
- To manage shortages during the transition, CBSE urged temporary use of Class 6‑level R3 textbooks, local literature, shared or online classes, and retired or postgraduate instructors, and it kept exemptions for children with special needs with relaxations for returning and overseas students.