<p>Schools for the survey will be selected using a statistical sampling method to ensure representation across different regions and institution types</p> — Schools for the survey will be selected using a statistical sampling method to ensure representation across different regions and institution types

Ahmedabad: A nationwide assessment of the academic abilities of Class 3 students will be conducted in March by Parakh, a unit under the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The survey, Foundational Learning Study-2026, aims to evaluate the foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) skills of young students across the country.

According to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the assessment will cover more than 10,000 schools and over 1 lakh students from 776 districts across 36 states and Union territories. The survey will examine students’ basic reading, writing, and mathematical abilities at the end of the primary stage.

In a major change from previous assessments, the traditional paper-and-pen method using Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets will be replaced with a tablet-based digital system. Officials believe that the use of digital devices will improve data collection accuracy, reduce errors, and enable faster analysis and reporting of results.

Schools for the survey will be selected using a statistical sampling method to ensure representation across different regions and institution types. The study will include central and state govt schools, govt-aided schools, as well as private institutions.

Parakh will provide technical guidance for the national-level survey. Meanwhile, coordination at the state and district levels will involve agencies such as Samagra Shiksha, State Councils of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), State Institutes of Education (SIE), District Institutes of Education and Training (DIET), and district education offices. CBSE issued an official circular instructing all affiliated schools selected for the survey to remain operational on the scheduled dates and extend full cooperation to the assessment teams.

The findings of the study are expected to play a key role in strengthening the country’s primary education system and in shaping future policies aimed at improving learning outcomes among young students.