CBSE Introduces NEP-Aligned Curriculum and New Exam Format for Class 10

Original: CBSE rolls out NEP-aligned 3-language curriculum, new Class 10 board exam format

Hindustan Times•Apr 2, 20265 min

In a Nutshell

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched a revised curriculum and examination format for Class 10, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Starting from the 2026-27 academic session, students will study three languages at different levels, with the first new board exams scheduled for 2028.

Key Points

01CBSE's new curriculum aligns with NEP 2020 and NCF-SE 2023.
02Students will study three languages, with R1 as the primary language.
03Mathematics and Science will have a two-level examination system.
04New subjects like Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking will be introduced.
05The first Class 10 board exams under the new format will take place in 2028.

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Full Summary

On Thursday, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced significant changes to the secondary school curriculum and Class 10 board examination format, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. Starting from the 2026-27 academic session, students entering Class 9 will be required to study three languages, structured into levels R1, R2, and R3. R1 will be the primary language studied at an advanced level, while R2 will be a different language at a lower level. R3 will become compulsory from Class 6 and expand to Class 10 by 2030-31. The new examination format will see students taking two language exams in Class 10, with separate question papers for R1 and R2. Additionally, Mathematics and Science will adopt a two-level examination system, allowing students to choose an advanced level for deeper understanding. New subjects such as Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking will also be introduced, becoming compulsory by 2029. These reforms aim to enhance language proficiency and critical thinking skills among students, with the first new board exams scheduled for 2028.

Key Figures

2026-27

Start of the new curriculum implementation

2028

First Class 10 board exams under the new format

50%

Minimum score for advanced qualification in Mathematics and Science

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Why It Matters

These changes will enhance language learning and critical thinking skills among students, preparing them better for future academic challenges.

Who is affected

Students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic session and their educators.

What to know

Students and parents should familiarize themselves with the new curriculum and prepare for the upcoming changes.

FAQ

The new curriculum will apply to students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic session, with the first board exams under the new format scheduled for 2028.

Language subjects will be structured into three levels (R1, R2, R3), with R1 as the primary language and R2 as a different language at a lower level. R3 will be introduced as a compulsory subject from Class 6.

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