The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce a third language for students of Class 6 starting from the 2026-27 academic year.
The move is part of the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes multilingual learning in schools across India. The decision is important for millions of students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad.
The change aims to strengthen language skills at an early stage and promote Indian languages. It also aligns CBSE schools with the broader goals of NEP 2020, which focuses on holistic and flexible education.
Here is a detailed look at what this means for students, parents, and schools.
Why the Third Language Policy Matters
Language plays a key role in learning and communication. The National Education Policy 2020 encourages students to learn three languages during their school years.
Under the new plan, students in Class 6 will study three languages from the 2026-27 academic session. This step is designed to improve language proficiency and promote cultural understanding.
India is a multilingual country. The three-language formula aims to balance regional language learning with national and global languages. It also helps students build stronger reading and writing skills.
For CBSE, this marks a significant structural change in the middle school curriculum.
What Is the Three-Language Formula Under NEP 2020?
The three-language formula is not new. It has existed in earlier education policies. However, the National Education Policy 2020 has renewed focus on it.
The policy suggests that students should learn three languages, with at least two of them being Indian languages. The choice of languages is left to states, schools, and students.
There is no fixed language imposed by the Centre. Students can choose languages based on availability and school offerings.
The main goal is flexibility and inclusivity.
When Will the Change Take Effect?
The third language requirement will begin from the 2026-27 academic year.
This means students entering Class 6 in 2026 will follow the revised language structure.
Schools have been given time to prepare for the transition. They may need to recruit language teachers, adjust timetables, and update textbooks.
The advance notice gives schools nearly two academic years to implement the change smoothly.
Who Will Be Affected?
The policy will apply to all CBSE-affiliated schools.
CBSE is one of India’s largest school boards. It has more than 27,000 schools in India and over 240 schools in other countries.
Students currently in primary classes will be among the first to experience the new system when they move to Class 6 in 2026.
Parents of children studying in Classes 3, 4, and 5 should be aware of the upcoming change.
How Will the Third Language Be Chosen?
Schools will offer language options based on available teachers and regional preferences.
Students may choose from Indian languages such as Hindi, Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, and others, depending on school infrastructure.
English will continue as a major language in most CBSE schools.
The policy does not force any specific language on students. Flexibility remains a key feature.
However, practical availability will depend on each school’s resources.
Impact on Students’ Academic Load
Many parents may worry about extra pressure on students.
Class 6 is the entry point to middle school. Adding a third language may require careful planning.
However, language learning at a young age is generally easier compared to later stages.
The NEP 2020 encourages interactive and activity-based teaching methods. The focus is not only on exams but also on understanding and communication.
CBSE may issue detailed curriculum guidelines closer to the implementation year.
What Schools Need to Prepare
Schools will need to:
• Review existing language offerings
• Assess teacher availability
• Hire additional language teachers if required
• Update teaching materials
• Inform parents and students in advance
Teacher training will also be important. Schools may conduct workshops to prepare educators for multilingual classrooms.
Infrastructure and timetable adjustments may also be required.
Link with Broader NEP Reforms
The introduction of a third language in Class 6 is part of larger changes under the National Education Policy 2020.
The NEP replaced the old 10+2 structure with a 5+3+3+4 system. Class 6 falls under the middle stage of this new format.
The policy also promotes skill-based subjects, coding, vocational exposure, and experiential learning from Class 6 onwards.
Language learning is seen as a foundation for cognitive development.
The emphasis is on Indian languages while maintaining global competitiveness.
Concerns and Clarifications
Language policies often lead to public debate.
In the past, discussions around the three-language formula have raised concerns about language imposition.
However, NEP 2020 clearly states that no language will be imposed on any state or student.
The decision on language choice remains flexible and region-specific.
CBSE is expected to provide clear operational guidelines to avoid confusion.
Parents are advised to stay in touch with their schools for official updates.
How This Move Affects Competitive Exams
Language subjects at school level do not directly affect national competitive exams like JEE or NEET.
However, strong language skills help students in comprehension, writing, and communication.
Multilingual ability can also benefit students in civil services, state government exams, and global opportunities.
Learning an additional Indian language may open academic and career options in translation, public service, education, and cultural studies.
What Parents Should Do Now
Parents do not need to take immediate action.
The implementation begins in 2026-27. Schools will share detailed instructions well in advance.
However, parents can:
• Encourage reading habits in different languages
• Discuss language interests with their children
• Stay updated through official CBSE circulars
Early awareness will help families make informed decisions.
What to Expect Next from CBSE
CBSE is likely to release detailed guidelines before the academic session begins.
These may include:
• List of approved language subjects
• Curriculum framework
• Assessment pattern
• Teacher qualification norms
Any official notification will be published through CBSE’s standard communication channels.
Schools will also inform parents through circulars and meetings.
Conclusion
The introduction of a third language in Class 6 from the 2026-27 academic year marks a major step in aligning CBSE schools with the National Education Policy 2020.
The move supports multilingual learning and promotes Indian languages.
While it brings changes to the curriculum, it also opens opportunities for stronger communication skills and cultural awareness.
With nearly two years to prepare, schools and families have time to adapt.
For students entering Class 6 in 2026, language learning will become a more structured and important part of their academic journey.
As India reshapes its education system, multilingual education is set to play a central role in shaping future generations.
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Edited by Mantena sasank
Last Updated on: Thursday, February 26, 2026 11:02 am by Digital Herald Team | Published by: Digital Herald Team on Thursday, February 26, 2026 11:02 am | News Categories: India