CBSE: A Third Language Will Be Mandatory in Class 6; CBSE Gives Schools Until May 31..

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has accelerated the process of implementing a third language in schools. The Board has directed all affiliated schools to complete the selection of a third language (R3) for Class 6 as soon as possible and to update this information on the OASIS portal. CBSE has clarified that this arrangement will become mandatory starting from the academic session 2026-27. Schools have been given a final deadline of May 31, 2026, to comply with this requirement. Action may also be taken against schools that fail to adhere to the regulations after the stipulated deadline.

**Implementation Under the New Education Policy**

This decision has been taken based on the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. Following a circular issued in April 2026, CBSE has demonstrated urgency in this regard. While many schools have already uploaded their choice for the third language, some schools are still lagging or have not selected a language in accordance with the prescribed regulations.

**Provision of Textbooks and Language Options**

According to the Board, textbooks for languages ​​included in the Constitutional list will be made available on the NCERT and CBSE websites before July 1, 2026. If a school chooses a language that falls outside this list, it may utilize textbooks approved at the state level; however, it must strictly adhere to the learning outcomes prescribed by the National Curriculum.

**Three-Language Formula Made Mandatory**

CBSE has declared the Three-Language Formula (R1, R2, R3) as mandatory for all schools. It is compulsory for this formula to include at least two Indian languages. Schools where this system has not yet been implemented are required to introduce it starting from July 1, 2026. The Board's Regional Offices will monitor this entire process and assist schools whenever necessary.

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