CBSE Foreign Language Policy 2026: In a major relief for thousands of students and parents, Education Ministry sources have clarified that students currently studying in Classes 7, 8 and 9 in Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) affiliated schools can continue learning foreign languages under the existing three-language system until they complete Class 10.
The clarification, issued on Friday (June 26, 2026), comes amid widespread confusion and protests following CBSE’s May circular on the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
🌍 Students Can Continue French, German, Spanish and Other Foreign Languages
The decision means students who have already opted for foreign languages such as:
- 🇫🇷 French
- 🇩🇪 German
- 🇪🇸 Spanish
- 🇯🇵 Japanese
- 🇷🇺 Russian
- 🇰🇷 Korean
will not be forced to switch immediately to an Indian language before completing Class 10.
The clarification is expected to bring significant relief to students who have spent the last three to four years studying a foreign language.
📖 What Did the Earlier CBSE Circular Say?
On May 15, CBSE had announced that from July 1, 2026, students entering Class 9 would be required to study three languages, with at least two being Indian languages, in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The circular triggered uncertainty across CBSE schools, many of which began asking students studying foreign languages to switch to an Indian language if English was already one of their subjects.
Several schools also faced challenges in retaining foreign language teachers because of the proposed policy changes.
📊 Over 7.5 Lakh Students Could Be Affected
Foreign language education has grown significantly in India over the past decade.
According to available estimates:
- 📚 Around 6 lakh students study French
- 📚 Nearly 1.5 lakh students study German
across schools in India, including thousands enrolled in CBSE-affiliated institutions.
🌐 German and French Embassies Raise Concerns
Sources said the German and French Embassies expressed concerns over the proposed phase-out of foreign language teaching under the revised three-language framework.
A spokesperson for the German Embassy confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the Government of India regarding the issue.
According to sources, the current roadmap could gradually reduce foreign language teaching in CBSE schools by the 2030–31 academic session, unless further changes are made.
🏫 New Policy to Apply Only to Future Class 6 Students
Education Ministry sources clarified that the revised three-language policy will primarily apply to students entering Class 6.
These students will study three languages, with two required to be Indian languages, while implementation will be phased in gradually over the coming years.
Students already studying in Classes 7, 8 and 9 will continue with their existing language choices until they complete Class 10.
⚖️ Parents and Students Moved Supreme Court
The CBSE circular prompted several parents, teachers and students to approach the Supreme Court, arguing that forcing students in Class 9 to abruptly change their language after several years of study would be academically unfair.
The petitioners contended that switching languages at such an advanced stage could negatively affect students’ learning and board examination preparation.
Last week, however, the Supreme Court declined to grant interim relief while the matter remains under consideration.
🔄 CBSE Likely to Issue Revised Circular
Education Ministry sources indicated that CBSE is expected to revise or withdraw its May 15 circular.
The revised guidelines are likely to introduce the three-language policy gradually over five academic years, extending until 2030–31, instead of implementing it for all eligible classes from the 2026–27 academic session.
This phased rollout is expected to provide schools, students and teachers with sufficient time to transition smoothly.
✅ Key Highlights
✔️ Classes 7, 8 and 9 can continue studying foreign languages until Class 10.
✔️ Students will not be required to switch immediately to an Indian language.
✔️ CBSE is expected to issue a revised circular soon.
✔️ The new three-language policy is likely to be implemented gradually till 2030–31.
✔️ French, German and other foreign language students receive major relief.
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