Changes in the new syllabus of CBSE
New Delhi. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made important changes in the curriculum and assessment system for the academic session 2026-27 for Class 9 and 2027-28 for Class 10. 'Individuals in Society', 'Critical Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) module' and 'Environmental Education' in class 10 have been removed from the curriculum of the students of this batch.
Under the new system, vocational education will be compulsory. Students have to choose 'Skill Development' or one of the 22 skill subjects prescribed by the Board. The methods of evaluating both options will be different. Internal assessment will be conducted at the school level in skill development, while students choosing any one of the 22 skill subjects will have to appear for the board examination of the concerned subject in class 10th.
Compulsory and optional subjects in class 9
According to CBSE, students of class 9 (2026-27) and class 10 (2027-28) will have to study nine compulsory subjects. These include three languages, mathematics, science, social science, arts education, physical education and vocational education. Optional subjects include languages along with music, painting, home science, NCC, computer applications, business and book keeping and accountancy. If a student chooses a language as an optional subject, it should be different from the three languages already chosen.
22 skill topics include AI and Data Science
The 22 employable and skill-based disciplines that combine traditional academic study with practical skills include Retail, Information Technology, Security, Automotive, Agriculture, Tourism, Banking & Insurance, Healthcare, Marketing & Sales, Food Production, Beauty & Wellness, Multimedia, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Electronics, and Design Thinking & Innovation. Apart from this, there are also subjects like Physical Activity Trainer and Foundation Skills related to Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology.
Main subjects for board exam in class 10
Five core subjects have been prescribed for Class 10 board exams in 2027-28. These include first language (R-1), second language (R-2), mathematics, science and social science. Apart from this, there will also be board examination for the optional subject chosen by the student, Advanced Mathematics, Advanced Science and 22 skill subjects. Third language (R-3), arts education and physical education and well-being will be assessed at the school level.
Certificate in Skill Development with 33% marks
Students will not have to appear for board exams in skill development subjects. Students who obtain at least 33 percent marks in internal assessment at the school level will be issued a certificate by the respective school. In contrast, the marks and grades of students choosing any of the 22 skill subjects will be recorded in the marksheet issued by the board. Upon passing, students will also receive an NSQF certificate.