The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on April 2 unveiled a revised curriculum for Classes 9 and 10, set to be implemented from the 2026–27 academic session, marking a significant shift in line with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-2023).

The curriculum was introduced during a webinar held at the CBSE Headquarters in Dwarka, with a live telecast on the Board’s official YouTube channel at 3 pm. The session aimed to familiarize educators and stakeholders with structural changes and the updated scheme of studies.

CBSE said the new framework for Class 9 will be rolled out from the upcoming academic year, incorporating key principles of NCF-2023—competency-based education, experiential learning, flexibility, and a stronger focus on holistic student development.

To ensure smooth implementation, the Board has directed all affiliated schools to download and circulate the complete curriculum document for Classes 9 and 10 among teachers and students. Institutions have also been asked to align their academic planning with the revised guidelines.

In its official communication, CBSE stressed strict adherence to subject-specific norms and urged school heads to proactively brief teachers, students, and parents about the changes. Schools have been advised to organize special Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) to facilitate awareness and readiness ahead of the 2026–27 session.

Crackdown on unauthorized fees

In a parallel directive, CBSE issued a stern warning to schools over irregular fee practices linked to the submission of the List of Candidates (LOC) for the Class 10 second board examination.

The Board clarified that schools are permitted to collect only the prescribed examination fee during the LOC process. It flagged complaints that some institutions were demanding up to three months’ tuition fees at the time of submission—an act it termed a direct violation of its regulations.

“Only the examination fee is valid. Any unauthorized collection will be treated seriously,” the Board said, instructing schools to immediately halt such practices and ensure full compliance with CBSE norms.

The twin announcements underscore CBSE’s push for academic reform alongside tighter regulatory oversight, as it prepares schools for a transition to a more flexible and student-centric learning framework.