The draft curriculum, sent to NCERT for review, gives schools a plan to introduce computational thinking and artificial intelligence (AI) step by step from Classes 3 to 12.

Starting next academic year, CBSE students as young as Class 3 may see computational-thinking skills included in all subjects as the Board moves towards an AI-focused curriculum.

The draft AI and computational thinking curriculum, prepared by CBSE for Classes 3 to 12, aims to teach basic AI concepts in the lower classes and make advanced computational thinking and AI compulsory in Classes 9 and 10, according to official sources.

This plan follows the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which recommends adding modern subjects like AI, design thinking, and holistic health to the curriculum.

For Classes 3 to 5, computational thinking—currently part of the math syllabus—will be added to all subjects, including language and “The World Around Us” (covering environmental studies, science, and social science). Assessments will connect computational thinking to core subjects like math.

For Classes 6 to 8, the same approach will be used, with computational thinking included in all subjects. At this stage, students will also be introduced to basic AI concepts. Assessments will include projects, presentations, assignments, and reflective journals. Supplementary materials like handbooks and worksheets will help students from Classes 3 to 8 understand how AI works.

For Classes 3 to 6, the curriculum is expected to start in the 2026–27 academic year, though this is not yet final. CBSE schools will have flexibility in choosing subjects and materials for younger classes, while compulsory subjects will apply to board classes.

For Classes 9 and 10, advanced computational thinking and intermediate AI will become compulsory subjects. This is likely to begin in the 2027–28 academic year. Programming will be introduced at this stage, and a separate textbook is being considered. CBSE has not yet decided whether assessments will be internal or part of the board exam.

In Classes 11 and 12, core AI and machine learning will be offered as elective subjects for interested students.

The draft curriculum suggests 50 hours of study for Classes 3 to 5 and 125 hours for Classes 6 to 12.

CBSE is preparing learning material, expected by December, and teacher training will follow. For Classes 3 to 5, math and other subject teachers will teach computational thinking. For Classes 6 to 8, teachers across subjects will work together. For Classes 9 to 12, computer science teachers will handle the subject.

The aim of the curriculum is to help students solve problems step by step, find patterns, use technology effectively, and understand the ethical use of technology.

Currently, CBSE offers AI as a 15-hour skill module from Class 6 onwards, and as an optional skill subject in Classes 9 to 12.

Last month, the Education Ministry announced that AI will be introduced in the school curriculum from Class 3 in the 2026–27 academic year. It also said that CBSE has formed an expert panel to design the AI and computational thinking curriculum.