CBSE Clarifies Three-Language Policy for Students Under NEP 2020

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has resolved confusion regarding the three-language policy under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Students in classes 7, 8, and 9 will not be required to take a third-language paper in their Class 10 board exams. This decision ensures that the current academic structure remains unchanged for these students. Additionally, the new policy will not affect the present Class 10 students, allowing them to proceed without any new subjects or alterations. Read on for more details.

By Sourabh Singh Jun 29, 2026, 14:17 IST

Clarification on Language Policy

CBSE has addressed the uncertainties faced by students and parents regarding the implementation of the three-language policy as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The Board has confirmed that students currently enrolled in classes 7, 8, and 9 will not be mandated to take a third-language examination in the Class 10 board exams under the new regulations. This means that the academic framework for these students will proceed as per the existing guidelines.

As per the directives released by the Board, the new language policy will also not affect the present Class 10 students. Therefore, those preparing for the board examinations this year can rest assured that there will be no alterations or additional subjects introduced.

CBSE issues guidelines on the three-language policy.

•The current batch of class X will not have to follow the new language policy.
• For the current batches studying in class VII, VIII and IX would not be required to give board examination in third language when they… pic.twitter.com/EbfmnPiIDw
— News Media (@PTI_News) June 29, 2026