From the 2026-27 academic session, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will implement major reforms for classes 6 to 10. These changes are designed to reduce exam pressure, move away from rote
learning, and help students build practical skills and a deeper understanding of subjects. To clear confusion about languages in classes 9 and 10 for 2026-27, CBSE has issued a detailed clarification.
Three-Language Formula
Students in class 10 will continue with the same language subjects they chose in class 9, and the evaluation pattern will remain the same. There will be no fresh changes in language subjects or assessment for that batch, allowing students to proceed with their existing language combinations without worry.
For class 9, a new system will apply from 2026. Although some provisions of the National Curriculum Framework (NCFSE-2023) are postponed until 2029-30, several key changes start immediately. Students can opt for an optional third language at the R1 or R2 level up to 2028-29. NCERT textbooks for Hindi and Urdu will be available at both these levels, giving flexibility in learning depth.
Changes In English Subject
English has undergone a major shift: ‘English Communicative’ has been removed, and there will now be a single subject called ‘English’, with a new NCERT textbook titled ‘Kaveri’. In Karnataka, Kannada will be offered at both R1 and R2 levels using SCERT textbooks, while other regional languages (apart from Kannada) will currently be offered only at the R2 level.
CBSE has also set clear rules for choosing language subjects. Language 1 and Language 2 may both be at R1 or R2 levels, but they must be different languages. The same language cannot be selected for both R1 and R2. If Language 1 is at R1 level, Language 2 must be at R2 level, and vice versa. Schools have been instructed to share these updates immediately with students and parents and to guide them carefully so that language and subject choices align with the new framework and avoid confusion.
Two Board Exams
From 2026, class 10 students will have two chances to appear for board examinations. The first exam will be held between February and March, and the second, in May, will be optional for those who wish to improve their scores. The better of the two scores will be treated as the final result. However, students absent in three or more subjects in the first exam will not be allowed to sit for the second. Those who fail any subject in the first exam can use the second as a compartment chance. With this new schedule, first-phase results are expected by April, speeding up class 11 admissions.
On-Screen Marking System
CBSE is also moving towards digital evaluation. Class 12 answer sheets are already being checked using on-screen marking, which reduces human error and speeds up results. Over time, this digital system may be extended further, making evaluation more efficient and transparent.
Focus On Mental Health
Supporting students’ mental health is another key focus. From 2026, CBSE will provide psycho-social counselling to help students deal with exam stress, anxiety, and pressure, placing equal emphasis on mental and emotional well-being alongside academics.
These reforms are aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes understanding-based learning, creativity, and skill development instead of memorisation. Under the new three-language policy, students will study three languages from class 6 onwards, with at least two being Indian languages. This may gradually extend to class 10 board examinations.
Skill Education Compulsory
Skill and vocational education will play a central role. Skill education will be compulsory from classes 6 to 8, and in classes 9 and 10, skill education, art education, and physical education will be mandatory. CBSE may also introduce board exams for skill-based subjects to better prepare students for employment and vocational pathways.
AI And Computational Thinking
To prepare students for a tech-driven future, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computational Thinking have been added to the curriculum. Question papers will also change, with around 50% of questions focusing on understanding and application, including case studies and real-life problem-solving. Rote learning will no longer be sufficient to score well.
Academic records will be stored digitally through platforms like DigiLocker and APAAR ID, ensuring secure, quick access to mark sheets and certificates and smoother admissions and verification. For teachers, structured training is being strengthened, and passing the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is now mandatory.
