The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has unveiled a revised school curriculum aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, introducing significant changes from the 2026–27 academic session. A key highlight is the compulsory introduction of a third language from Class 6, marking a shift from the present two-language system.
Under the new framework, students will be required to study three languages up to Class 10, with at least two being Indian languages. While the third language will begin in middle school, it is expected to become a mandatory subject in the Class 10 Board exams by 2031, when the first batch under the new system reaches the Board level.
The curriculum also introduces major reforms at the secondary level. Vocational education will become compulsory for Classes 9 and 10 starting from the 2027–28 session, with formal assessments or Boards. Art education and physical education will also be mandatory, though these will continue to be evaluated through internal, school-based assessments.
In addition, computational thinking and AI will be integrated as compulsory subjects for Classes 9 and 10. Initially introduced as modules with internal assessments, these subjects are set to become part of the Class 10 Boards by 2029. Foundational exposure to these areas has already been extended to Classes 3 to 8.
To provide greater academic flexibility, the CBSE will offer Mathematics and Science at two levels for Class 9 students, allowing learners to opt for advanced content beyond the standard syllabus. The move is aimed at helping students identify their aptitudes early.
The Board will also expand language options by offering all 22 scheduled Indian languages, including Dogri, Maithili, Konkani, and Santhali, reinforcing multilingual learning across schools.