CBSE Three-Language Formula: Three languages to be taught in CBSE schools starting this session

CBSE Three-Language Formula: Three languages will be introduced in schools affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) starting this session—specifically, the Academic Session 2026-27. Consequently, students in Class 6 and above will begin studying three languages from this session onwards. The CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to introduce a third language (R3) at the Class 6 level.

The Board has clarified that this decision was taken in accordance with the recently released 'Scheme of Studies,' which forms an integral part of the 'Three-Language Formula' being implemented under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The CBSE stated that the primary objective of this initiative is to strengthen students' linguistic comprehension and knowledge.

However, this decision by the CBSE has left school principals in a state of confusion. Principals remain perplexed due to the lack of clarity regarding the specific category under which English is to be classified.

Students Must Study Three Languages; Two Indian Languages Mandatory

Starting from the new academic session 2026-27, the CBSE has implemented the recommendations outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education. According to the new regulations, students in Classes 6 through 10 will now be required to study three languages.

A crucial aspect of this mandate is that two of these three languages must be Indian languages. The objective behind implementing this rule is to foster an understanding among students regarding their own culture and mother tongue. Additionally, students will be required to study one foreign language.

English: A Foreign or an Indian Language? Confusion Prevails Among Schools

Under the CBSE's three-language formula, students are mandatorily required to study two Indian languages and one foreign language. However, schools remain unclear as to whether English falls under the category of a foreign language within this framework.

Addressing this issue, Dr. S.V. Sharma, Principal of Vidya Bal Bhawan Senior Secondary School (Mayur Vihar Phase 3), states: "Until now, we were teaching Hindi, English, and Sanskrit; however, we are currently unsure which language is to be designated as R1, which as R2, and which languages will fall under the R3 category."

Session Begins Amidst Confusion

Overall, schools currently lack complete clarity on the matter and are awaiting a circular from the CBSE. Although the academic session has already commenced, students have [begun acquiring] their textbooks...

The purchases have been made, and classes have even begun; however, nothing is clear regarding the Three-Language Formula. Everyone knows that it is to be implemented, but no one knows how to go about it.