CBSE mobilizes schools for nationwide basic learning audit as PARAKH assesses digital Grade 3 in March 2026 |

gave Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has asked all its affiliated schools to fully support the Foundational Learning Study (FLS) 2026. It is a nationwide assessment designed to assess basic literacy and numeracy skills in Grade 3 students. According to an official communication issued on February 18, 2026, the study will be conducted by PARK under the auspices of the National Council of Educational Research and Training by the end of March 2026.In the assessment framework, states and union territories will serve as the unit of analysis, allowing policy makers to compare basic learning levels and design targeted educational interventions.This exercise will assess the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) skills of students completing Grade 3. The findings will help the authorities to understand how effectively the early learning goals are being achieved in the states and Union Territories.

Shift from OMR sheets to tablets.

The shift to a digital platform is one of the most important changes in FLS 2026. Previous forms of exams, such as the 2022 assessment, were based on paper-pencil tests assessed through OMR sheets.This year, the test will be conducted through tablets, which will be a change in the direction of data collection in terms of technology. Education authorities believe that this action will increase the level of accuracy, speed of analysis and general reliability of the data.The scale of assessment is important. The Foundational Learning Study will cover:

The sample schools will include government schools run by central and state authorities, government-aided institutions and private schools. All participating institutions have been selected through a scientific sampling process to ensure a representative national picture of basic learning levels.

CBSE asked schools to ensure smooth conduct

In its communication, CBSE has asked the heads of affiliated schools to ensure two important arrangements for successful implementation of the study.First, the sampled schools must remain open and fully operational on the scheduled assessment dates so that assessment teams can conduct tests without interruption.Second, schools are directed to fully cooperate with the assessment teams deployed for the exercise.

Multi-level coordination for implementation

This study will be technically guided by PARAKH at NCERT at national level. At the state and district levels, multiple institutions will coordinate logistics and field implementation.These include:

This collaborative structure aims to ensure smooth administration, data collection and monitoring across the country.Candidates can check the official notification provided. Here.