CBSE Foreign Language Policy Update 2026: Students in Classes 7, 8 and 9 Can Continue French, German, Spanish Till Class 10
The Ministry of Education has provided major relief to lakhs of students studying foreign languages in CBSE-affiliated schools. According to official sources, students currently enrolled in Classes 7, 8, and 9 can continue studying foreign languages such as French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and other international languages until they complete Class 10.
The clarification comes amid widespread confusion over the implementation of the CBSE three-language formula under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Earlier, a CBSE circular had indicated that Class 9 students would need to study three languages, including two Indian languages, from the 2026-27 academic session, raising concerns among students, parents, and schools.
Major Relief for CBSE Students Studying Foreign Languages
The latest clarification means that students who have already been learning foreign languages will not be forced to switch to an additional Indian language midway through their schooling.
Students in:
- Class 7
- Class 8
- Class 9
can continue with their existing foreign language choices until they pass Class 10.
This decision is expected to benefit thousands of students who have spent several years learning languages such as French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and other foreign languages as part of their school curriculum.
What Was the Controversy Around the CBSE Three-Language Formula?
On May 15, 2026, CBSE issued a circular regarding the implementation of the three-language policy under NEP 2020.
The circular stated that students in Classes 9 and 10 would need to study three languages, with at least two languages being native to India.
As a result, several schools began advising students studying foreign languages to switch to an Indian language from the 2026-27 academic year.
This move triggered concerns among:
- Students
- Parents
- Teachers
- School managements
- Foreign language educators
Many argued that forcing students to change languages after years of study would negatively impact their academic performance and learning continuity.
Why Students and Parents Opposed the Policy
Many students had already invested three to four years learning foreign languages.
Parents and education experts pointed out that:
- Students would lose years of language learning progress.
- Sudden language changes could affect board exam preparation.
- Schools might face difficulties in restructuring language programs.
- Foreign language teachers could lose teaching opportunities.
Several parents and students also approached the Supreme Court challenging the immediate implementation of the policy.
Foreign Languages Will Continue for Existing Students
Sources in the Ministry of Education have now clarified that the three-language formula will primarily apply to students entering Class 6 under the new framework.
This means existing students in higher classes will be allowed to continue with their current language choices without disruption until Class 10.
The clarification is expected to bring stability and certainty for students currently pursuing foreign language education.
Impact on French and German Language Students
The decision is particularly significant because foreign languages remain popular among CBSE students.
According to estimates:
- More than 6 lakh students study French across various school grades.
- Around 1.5 lakh students study German.
- Thousands more pursue Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and other international languages.
The update ensures that these students can complete their secondary education without having to restart language learning from scratch.
CBSE May Revise Its Earlier Circular
Sources indicate that CBSE is expected to issue a revised circular to clarify the implementation timeline of the three-language formula.
Instead of enforcing the policy across all classes immediately, schools may be directed to gradually implement it over a phased period extending up to 2030-31.
This phased approach would allow students, schools, and teachers adequate time to adapt to the new requirements.
What the Three-Language Formula Means Under NEP 2020
The National Education Policy 2020 promotes multilingual learning and encourages students to study three languages during their school education.
Under the proposed framework:
- Students will learn three languages.
- At least two languages should be Indian languages.
- Schools will have flexibility in language selection.
- The policy aims to strengthen linguistic diversity and cultural understanding.
However, implementation timelines and transitional arrangements continue to be discussed to avoid academic disruption.
What Students Should Do Now
Students currently studying French, German, Spanish, or other foreign languages in Classes 7, 8, and 9 do not need to change their language subject immediately.
They should:
- Continue attending their existing language classes.
- Follow updates issued by CBSE and their schools.
- Wait for the revised CBSE circular regarding implementation.
- Consult school authorities before making any language-related changes.