The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 replaces the 34-year-old education policy, bringing a comprehensive overhaul of India's education system. It introduces a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure, multidisciplinary learning, vocational training from Class 6, and significant reforms from school through higher education.
New 5+3+3+4 curricular structure covering ages 3-18 with foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary stages
Mother tongue/local language as medium of instruction until Class 5 (preferably Class 8)
Multiple entry and exit options in undergraduate education with certificate/diploma/degree
Establishment of Academic Bank of Credits for storing academic achievements
National Research Foundation (NRF) to fund and promote research
Vocational education integrated into school curriculum from Class 6 with internships
Flexible subject choices with no hard separation between arts, sciences, and vocational streams
National Assessment Centre (PARAKH) for standardized student assessment
Union Cabinet approves NEP 2020, replacing the 1986 education policy.
NCERT develops new National Curriculum Framework (NCF) based on NEP.
Multiple states begin implementing NEP in their institutions.
CUET becomes mandatory for central university admissions; Academic Bank of Credits launched.
Multidisciplinary universities begin formation; vocational education integrated in schools.
Target: 100% youth and adult literacy, 50% GER in higher education.
School Structure
5+3+3+4
Higher Ed GER (Target)
50% by 2035
Vocational Exposure
From Class 6
Multiple Exit Points
3 in UG degree
Research Outlay
₹50,000 Cr (NRF)
| Country | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Finland | Model | Play-based early education, teacher autonomy, no standardized tests |
| Singapore | Model | High-performing, bilingual policy, strong STEM focus |
| China | Active | Gaokao exam system, rapid university expansion |
| USA | Decentralized | State-level control, Common Core standards, diverse systems |