The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Thursday released a revised curriculum to be introduced in phases over the coming years, aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.

The framework introduces a compulsory third language from Class 6, and mandates computational thinking (CT) and artificial intelligence (AI) as a subject from Class 9 starting in the 2027–28 academic year. The first cohort will appear for board examinations in 2029. CBSE has begun preparing textbooks and course structures, with Class 9 materials expected to be implemented from 2027–28.

The Board has also launched a structured CT and AI curriculum for Classes 3 to 8, marking the early introduction of AI education in schools.

Language education will follow a three-level structure—R1, R2 and R3—based on proficiency. R3-level textbooks will be introduced as a compulsory subject in Class 6 from the 2026–27 academic year, with the first board examinations under this model scheduled for 2031. Students entering Class 9 this year will begin with revised R1 and R2 language textbooks, with their first board examinations under the new framework in 2028.

Optional advanced mathematics and science assessments will be introduced for Class 9 students. These will include additional material and higher-order questions developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). Students may opt for either or both subjects and will take an additional one-hour assessment in Class 10. Those scoring above around 50 per cent will have the achievement recorded on their mark sheet, while those who do not qualify will not face penalties. The first such assessment will be conducted in 2028.

The revised curriculum also makes art education, physical education and wellbeing, vocational education, and interdisciplinary studies compulsory. These subjects will be assessed through internal examinations. CBSE has introduced textbooks for art and physical education and may discontinue some existing optional subjects in these areas.

In addition, the Board is expanding language offerings by introducing Maithili, Santhali, Dogri, and Konkani at the Class 9 level, making all constitutionally recognised languages available within the curriculum.

The reforms will be implemented in stages as new textbooks, courses and assessments are introduced.

Also Read: CBSE to release new curriculum for Classes 9 and 10 for 2026–27 session