Many parents and students often ask: How many languages are compulsory in CBSE schools? Understanding the language policy of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) can help students plan their studies better.
In this guide, we explain the CBSE language policy, the three-language formula, and how many languages students must study up to Class 10.
CBSE Language Policy 2026 (Latest Update) Explained
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) follows a structured language learning policy to promote multilingual education in India. According to the official CBSE secondary curriculum, language learning is divided into two phases:
- Primary and Middle School (up to Class 8)
- Secondary School (Classes 9 and 10)
The number of languages changes slightly as students progress through school.
Three-Language Formula in CBSE Schools
CBSE generally follows the Three-Language Formula recommended by the Government of India.
Under this system, students study three languages up to Class 8.
These languages typically include:
- English
- Hindi or a regional language
- A third language (such as Sanskrit, French, German, or another Indian language)
The goal is to promote linguistic diversity and national integration while also allowing students to learn foreign languages.
How Many Languages Are Compulsory in Class 9 and 10?
When students reach secondary classes (IX and X), the number of compulsory languages is reduced.
According to the official CBSE Scheme of Studies for Class X, students must study two languages along with core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and Social Science.
The curriculum includes:
Core Subjects in Class 10
- Language I
- Language II
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Science
- Work Experience / Pre-vocational Education
- Physical and Health Education
This means two language subjects are compulsory for Class 10 board examinations.
Important Rules About Language Subjects
CBSE has also provided several important guidelines for language studies.
1. Students Must Study Three Languages Until Class 8
Students are expected to complete three languages up to Class VIII before entering secondary classes.
2. Hindi and English Requirement
CBSE guidelines state:
- Hindi and English must be studied at least up to Class VIII.
- In Classes IX and X, at least one of the two languages must be Hindi or English.
3. Two Language Courses Available
For Hindi and English, CBSE offers two types of courses:
- Course A
- Course B
This helps students from different language backgrounds choose the appropriate level.
List of Languages Offered in CBSE Schools
CBSE offers a wide range of Indian and foreign languages. Some commonly available options include:
Indian Languages
- Hindi
- Sanskrit
- Punjabi
- Gujarati
- Marathi
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Malayalam
- Bengali
- Assamese
- Urdu
Foreign Languages
- French
- German
- Spanish
- Persian
- Arabic
Schools choose which languages to offer depending on available teachers and resources.
Additional Language Option in CBSE
Students can also choose one additional subject in Class 9 or 10.
This additional subject can be:
- Another language
- Commerce
- Painting
- Music
- Home Science
However, the two main language subjects remain compulsory.
Special Provisions for Students With Disabilities
CBSE also provides flexibility for certain students.
Students with visual or hearing impairment may study only one compulsory language instead of two, along with four other subjects.
Summary: Number of Languages in CBSE Schools
| Class Level | Languages Required |
|---|---|
| Classes 1–8 | 3 Languages |
| Classes 9–10 | 2 Languages |
| Special cases (CWSN students) | 1 Language |
Conclusion
CBSE’s language policy aims to ensure that students gain exposure to multiple languages while maintaining academic balance.
To summarize:
- Students learn three languages up to Class 8.
- In Class 9 and 10, only two languages are compulsory.
- At least one language must be Hindi or English.
This structured approach helps students develop communication skills, cultural understanding, and multilingual ability, which are essential in today’s global world.
Frequently Asked Questions
In CBSE schools, students study three languages up to Class 8 under the three-language formula. From Class 9 and Class 10, only two languages are compulsory along with core subjects like Mathematics, Science, and Social Science.
Hindi is generally studied up to Class 8 as part of the three-language formula. In Classes 9 and 10, at least one language must be either Hindi or English according to CBSE curriculum guidelines.
Yes, CBSE allows students to choose several foreign languages such as French, German, Spanish, Arabic, and Persian, depending on the facilities available in the school.
The three-language formula is a policy followed in many Indian schools where students study three languages until Class 8. These usually include English, Hindi or a regional language, and a third language such as Sanskrit or a foreign language.
CBSE offers many language options including Hindi, English, Sanskrit, Gujarati, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Punjabi, Urdu, French, German, Spanish, Arabic, and Persian.
Yes. Students with visual or hearing impairments may study one language instead of two in Classes 9 and 10 as per CBSE provisions.
