CBSE Announces Comprehensive Educational Reforms for 2026-2031

Original: CBSE rolls out reforms: 3-language formula from class 6 by 2026, two-level maths & science in class 9

Hindustan Times•Apr 3, 20265 min

In a Nutshell

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced significant reforms, including a phased implementation of a three-language formula starting from Class 6 in 2026, and a two-level system for mathematics and science in Class 9 from the same year. These changes align with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Points

01Three-language formula to be implemented from Class 6 in 2026, reaching Class 10 by 2031.
02Introduction of two-level mathematics and science courses for Class 9 starting in 2026.
03Computational Thinking and Artificial Intelligence to be assessed in board exams from 2029.
04New assessment structure will differentiate between standard and advanced levels in subjects.
05Focus on competency-based learning and real-life applications in social science education.

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Full Summary

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has rolled out extensive reforms aimed at enhancing the educational framework for students in India. Starting in the 2026-27 academic session, a three-language formula will be implemented for students from Class 6, progressing to Class 10 by 2030-31. This initiative aligns with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The new curriculum will categorize language subjects into three levels: R1, R2, and R3, with R1 being the student's strongest language and R3 being a compulsory third language. Additionally, a two-level system for mathematics and science will be introduced in Class 9, allowing students to opt for an advanced level to test higher-order thinking skills. The first board exams under this new structure will occur in 2028. Furthermore, Computational Thinking and Artificial Intelligence will be introduced and assessed starting in 2029. CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh emphasized the importance of these reforms in promoting conceptual depth and competency-based learning across subjects, including social science, which will now focus on inquiry and real-life applications.

Key Figures

2026

Start of the three-language formula implementation

2031

Full implementation of the three-language formula up to Class 10

2028

First board exams under the new two-level system for mathematics and science

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Why It Matters

These reforms aim to provide students with a more structured and comprehensive educational experience, enhancing language proficiency and critical thinking skills.

Who is affected

Students in CBSE-affiliated schools, educators, and parents.

What to know

Students and parents should prepare for the changes in curriculum and assessment methods starting in 2026.

FAQ

The three-language formula requires students to study three languages, with the first being their strongest language, the second a different language, and the third a compulsory language starting from Class 6.

The two-level system for mathematics and science will begin in the 2026-27 academic session for Class 9, with the first board exams under this system scheduled for 2028.

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