CBSE’s Three-Language Shift: What It Means for Schools from 2026–27?
- April 1, 2026, 7:09 p.m.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will launch a third language choice for Grade 6 students in line with the NEP 2020, which encourages multilingual education from the early years of schooling.
Grade 6 students will learn 3 languages, with at least 2 being Indian languages, under the revised structure.
Schools will consider English as an overseas language where it is provided. Students in such schools should select 2 Indian languages along with English as a result. When a student chooses another foreign language like Spanish or French, the need remains similar that 2 Indian languages should be added in the 3-language combination.
What does the Policy Say?
The 3-language formula is a fundamental part of NEP 2020 and applies to both private and government schools. It allows regions and states to determine which languages to provide according to the local preferences and requirements, while the policy offers a wide model. Students have some flexibility in selecting languages, as long as at least 2 of them are Indian as well.
The policy further promotes schools to employ the mother tongue as the instruction medium at least until Grade 5, preferably up to Grade 8. The National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 advocates that students continue learning all 3 languages through Grades 9 and 10 to build proficiency and ensure continuity.
The 3 Language Formula Background
The 3-language formula first appeared in the NEP of 1968 and was later reconfirmed in the NEP 2020 and the 1986 policy. The Centre has clarified that this model is not legally binding but serves as a leading principle for states. The Union government has stressed that it will not impose any language on individuals or states. Rather, the policy aims to encourage multilingualism while holding a balance between India’s linguistic diversity and national integration.
