CBSE to introduce basic and advanced levels in STEM subjects for Classes 11 & 12 from 2026–27, aligning with NEP for flexible, stress-free learning.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is preparing to expand its two-tier model of subject difficulty to Classes 11 and 12, beginning with Class 11 in the 2026–27 academic year. This follows the board’s earlier decision to offer Science and Social Science at both basic and advanced levels for secondary students (Classes 9 and 10), in addition to the already existing two-level format for Mathematics in Class 10.
Currently, Class 10 students can choose between standard and basic Mathematics. While both versions are based on the same syllabus, the basic level is designed to be more accessible. This structure is now set to be extended to other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects at the senior secondary stage, aligning with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023.
CBSE’s governing body had approved the expansion of the dual-level approach for Science and Social Science in December last year, with implementation starting from Class 9 in 2026–27. The rollout to Classes 11 and 12 is also expected to follow suit, though the exact timeline may vary depending on when the NCERT releases the updated textbooks for higher classes that accommodate this structure.
So far, new textbooks aligned with NEP and NCFSE have been released for Classes 1 to 4 and Classes 6 and 7. Books for Classes 5 and 8 are arriving this academic year, while those for Classes 9 to 12 are still in development. According to NCERT notifications, textbooks for Classes 9 and 11 are likely to be ready later this year.
The decision to allow subjects at two difficulty levels is based on a vision of flexibility and student-centered learning. According to CBSE, this move will let students align their academic load with their interests and career goals, ultimately reducing stress and encouraging deeper engagement with subjects. For instance, students aiming for careers in science or engineering can choose the advanced level in Science, while others can take the subject at a basic level to match their aptitude and aspirations.
The move aims to reduce academic stress and offer students flexibility in line with NEP 2020.
In Social Science, the advanced option is designed to help students explore historical events, geography, and economic systems in greater detail, fostering analytical skills. Meanwhile, the basic level focuses on understanding broader real-world implications of the subject matter.
CBSE’s own experience with two levels of Mathematics in Class 10 supports this approach. In the 2023–24 academic session, nearly 30% of students opted for the basic level. Specifically, about 6.8 lakh students chose basic Mathematics, while roughly 15.9 lakh went with the standard level.
Sources also say that giving Class 11 students the option to choose the level of difficulty in a subject like Mathematics allows them to make more informed academic decisions. For example, a student who doesn’t plan to study Maths beyond school could opt for the basic version, while someone interested in STEM could take the advanced route. Students may also mix and match—taking one subject at the advanced level and another at the basic.
Interestingly, in a pilot program last year, select private schools offered Class 9 students the chance to try advanced versions of Maths, Science, and Social Science. The students’ feedback was largely positive, indicating a growing interest in these enriched academic experiences.
One logistical challenge still under discussion is how to reflect the advanced level in a student’s final board results. The CBSE is exploring the idea of including a special annexure with additional questions in the exam paper for those who opt for the advanced version, ensuring their efforts are formally recognized.
In short, CBSE is moving towards a more flexible, personalized learning system that acknowledges different student needs and goals—especially at the crucial senior secondary stage.
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