CBSE Three-language Formula

Who all are exempted?

Jun 29, 2026

Samaira Fatima Rizvi

The CBSE has issued detailed guidelines explaining the implementation of the three-language policy.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

As per the three-language policy, studying at least two languages, out of which one must be Bhartiya Bhashas (native Indian languages) has been mandated.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

A foreign language such as English, French, German, Arabic, or Spanish, can only be opted as the third language (R3), only if the other two are already Bhartiya Bhashas.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

Through its detailed framework, CBSE has cleared that students who are currently studying in Class 10 will not be appearing for a third-language board examination.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

Class 9 students will be required to study three languages starting this year. The third language will be assessed through internal school-based assessments only i.e. when these students will be promoted to Class 10 in the academic session 2027-28, they will not be required to appear for a CBSE Board examination in the third language.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

Class 7 and 8 students will be required to study three languages when they get promoted to Classes 9 and 10, with two languages being Bhartiya Bhashas.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

CBSE Class 6 batch of the academic session 2026-27 will be the first batch to witness the full-fledged implementation of the three-language policy. They will become the first batch to appear for the CBSE Board examination in the third language when they reach Class 10.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

Although the three-language policy will be implemented on the majority of the students, CBSE has announced exemptions for some categories of students. Swipe to the next slide to know who all exempted from this policy.

Photo Credit: Indian Express

1. Students belonging to Children with Special Needs (CwSN) 2. Students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools outside India 3. Students returning to India after studying abroad

Photo Credit: Indian Express

Students belonging to families that migrate between states can continue with their previously chosen language combinations and schools will be required to make necessary arrangements for such students . Schools may use retired teachers, language experts, inter-school resource sharing, and digital teaching platforms to address staffing challenges.

Photo Credit: Pexels

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