CBSE to Launch Global Curriculum from April 2026 for Schools Abroad

CBSE earlier introduced an international version, CBSE-i, which was later discontinued.

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is all set to launch Global Curriculum from April 2026 for its affiliated schools outside India, starting with schools in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other Gulf countries.

New international curriculum combines Indian educational values with international learning standards. The Global Curriculum will initially be implemented in CBSE-affiliated schools in the UAE before being made available to other international schools in subsequent years.

Curriculum is designed to offer a more flexible and globally relevant learning experience, integrating best practices from international education systems while keeping the core principles of the Indian framework intact. The move is seen as a step to make CBSE schools abroad more competitive with boards such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge International.

Sources added that the curriculum will align with NCERT’s foundational goals but will feature new assessment methods and pedagogy to encourage critical thinking and global awareness among students. The plan is also expected to promote smoother academic transitions for students moving between countries.

The CBSE had earlier introduced an international version, CBSE-i, which was later discontinued. Officials say the new Global Curriculum draws lessons from that experience and will offer a more sustainable, affordable, and academically strong alternative. Discussions with education regulators in the Gulf region have already begun to finalise frameworks for recognition and implementation.

Apart from the Global Curriculum, the CBSE is also working on broader reforms. Starting from the 2026–27 academic session, the board plans to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year, allowing students to improve their scores without waiting for the next academic cycle.

As per reports, Global Curriculum announcement has generated strong interest among Indian schools abroad, particularly in UAE, where there are more than 100 CBSE-affiliated institutions.

Detailed guidelines, including subject frameworks and teacher training requirements, are expected to be released in the coming months. CBSE will create implementation plans in consultation with school leaders to ensure readiness by April 2026.