What Changes Are Coming to CBSE Curriculum? A Look at the New Three-Language and Two-Level Systems

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to implement significant changes in its curriculum starting from the 2026-27 academic year. This includes a mandatory three-language formula for Class VI and a two-level system for mathematics and science in Class IX. The new framework aims to enhance multilingual education and provide students with options for advanced studies. Learn more about how these changes will affect students and the structure of their examinations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 3, 2026, 15:24 IST

CBSE Introduces New Educational Framework

New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a new curriculum that will be implemented in phases, starting with the introduction of a three-language policy for Class VI and a dual-level approach for mathematics and science in Class IX, effective from the 2026-27 academic year, as confirmed by officials on Friday.

The three-language policy, a key component of the National Education Policy (NEP), will be enforced for students in Class VI beginning in 2026. Additionally, a two-tier system for mandatory standard and optional advanced courses in mathematics and science will be introduced for Class IX.

According to a senior official from the board, the language framework will be structured into three levels: R1, R2, and R3. As per the new National Curriculum Framework (NCF), at least two of these languages must be native to India. This initiative aims to ensure that every student learns a minimum of two Indian languages by making a third language compulsory from Class VI in the 2026-27 academic session.

In cases where students return from foreign schools and the third language they studied until Class VIII or IX is unavailable in domestic institutions, they may be exempted from this requirement under specific conditions. However, these students will still need to fulfill the total subject requirements as outlined in the study scheme.

The introduction of the two-level system for mathematics and science marks a significant change, starting in the 2026-27 academic year.

All students will follow the standard curriculum and take a common examination worth 80 marks over three hours. Those who wish to pursue a higher level of proficiency can opt for an additional 'advanced' level in one or both subjects. This advanced component will include a separate 25-mark, one-hour exam designed to assess higher-order thinking and deeper understanding of concepts.

While all students must take the standard exam, the advanced paper is optional. Notably, the results from the advanced paper will not contribute to the overall aggregate score; instead, students achieving 50% or more will have their advanced-level qualification noted separately on their mark sheet.

The two-level system for mathematics and science will commence for Class IX students in the 2026-27 academic year, with the first board examinations for Class X students under this new structure scheduled for 2028.