CBSE Class 7-9 Students Can Continue Existing Foreign Language Combo Till Class 10 | Education and Career News
Last Updated:
CBSE students joining Class 6 this year will study three languages, and at least two of them must be Indian languages, Dharmendra Pradhan said.

Only around 1.3% study two foreign languages, and they will not be affected, Dharmendra Pradhan said. (Source: PTI)
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the new three-language policy will start only with students entering Class 6. Those currently studying in Classes 7, 8 and 9 in CBSE schools will not have to change their language subjects, reported Times of India.
This means students who are currently studying between class 7 to 9 with two foreign languages can continue with the same subjects until they complete their Class 10 board exams.
Pradhan also told the news agency that CBSE’s earlier notice did not clearly explain what would happen to students already studying under the old system. He said this confusion will now be removed.
CBSE is likely to issue a revised order after discussions in its governing council.
Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, students from Classes 6 to 8 must study three languages. Pradhan said this is already followed by most school boards in India. Out of nearly 25 crore school students, around 90% already study three languages. Except for CBSE and Tamil Nadu, most school boards continue this pattern up to Class 10. Within CBSE, about 99% of students already study two Indian languages. Only around 1.3% study two foreign languages, and they will not be affected.
Students joining Class 6 this year will study three languages, and at least two of them must be Indian languages.
Students can still choose a fourth language if they want, and foreign languages are not being removed. The only requirement is that two of the three main languages should be Indian languages. Pradhan said this is part of a larger effort to strengthen Indian languages in education.
What is the R1, R2, R3 framework?
The system categorises language subjects into three distinct levels:
R1 (First Language): Usually the primary medium of instruction (e.g., English or Hindi).
R2 (Second Language): A different language from R1.
R3 (Third Language): A different language from both R1 and R2.
Out of the three selected languages, at least two must be native Indian languages.
Pradhan also said that textbooks in 22 Indian languages will be ready on time. He said it is CBSE’s responsibility to arrange teachers and other resources. This is expected to reduce concerns about books, teachers and implementation, which had even reached the courts.
About the Author
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, …Read More
Read More