CBSE AI Syllabus 2025: Key Updates for Classes 9 to 12

Everything parents and students need to know about CBSE’s new AI subject

By SELIN Club | 31 May 2025, 02:21 AM

These days, AI has taken over all aspects of life. It caters to every part of our lives, such as health, telecommunications, education, and entertainment. Recognising this reality, the Central Board of Secondary Education introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a new skill subject in schools. It has already updated the AI curriculum for Classes 9 to 12 from 2025 onwards, readying students for the digital age. The blog is all about what parents, students and school leaders should know about it.

Why AI in Schools?

CBSE is encouraging future-readiness by integrating AI into the curriculum. The reasons for introducing AI in schools include:

• Developing 21st-century skills: Students learn problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision-making through hands-on AI activities.
   
• Introducing real-world technology early: Children become familiar with technologies they will encounter in higher education and careers.
   
• Improving digital literacy: AI builds upon basic computer skills and introduces data literacy, coding, and logical reasoning.
   
• Encouraging curiosity and innovation: Project-based learning in AI allows students to explore solutions for real-life issues.
   
• Creating career awareness: Exposure to AI opens students’ minds to career opportunities in high-growth industries.
  
   

Detailed Breakdown: AI Curriculum by Class

Class 9: A Gentle Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

In Class 9, AI is introduced as a skill subject to create foundational awareness. Key features include:

• Understanding basic AI concepts: Students learn what AI is, how it mimics human behaviour, and where it is used.
   
• Introduction to AI domains: They are introduced to areas like natural language processing, data handling, and computer vision.
   
• Learning ethical implications: Students are guided to think about the ethical use of AI, such as fairness, privacy, and bias.
   
• Hands-on activities: Learning is done through interactive sessions, including role plays and simulations.
  
   

Class 10: Core Concepts and Project-Based Learning

By Class 10, the syllabus becomes more practical and structured. Students explore:

• Python programming basics: They learn simple code that helps create AI tools or analyse data.
   
• AI project cycles: Students follow structured steps such as problem identification, data collection, modelling, and deployment.
   
• Understanding data and logic: Lessons include data types, basic statistics, and decision-making with logic.
   
• Developing AI solutions: Students apply knowledge through real-world problems, building basic prototypes.
   
• Ethics and impact: The syllabus includes modules on digital responsibility and impact on society.
   

Classes 11 and 12: Advanced Learning and Career Skills

Senior secondary students take AI as an elective subject, where the focus is on depth and career relevance. Topics include:

• Machine Learning concepts: Students explore how algorithms learn from data to make decisions.
   
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): They understand how AI systems interpret, analyse, and respond to human language.
   
• Computer Vision and Robotics: These modules introduce image recognition and automation.
   
• Project-based assessments: Students work on long-term AI projects and may collaborate in teams.
   
• Career applications: Real-world case studies connect AI learning to fields like finance, education, and health.

How Schools Are Implementing the AI Syllabus

To run the AI syllabus smoothly, schools need to make infrastructure and academic arrangements:

Teacher Training and Certification

• Teachers undergo CBSE training modules or attend workshops on AI concepts and pedagogy.
   
• Some schools bring in external experts to co-teach or mentor students on AI projects.
   

Classroom and Lab Requirements

• Schools are expected to provide computer labs with access to basic software like Python IDES and spreadsheet tools.
   
• High-speed internet access is essential for accessing digital resources, conducting virtual sessions, and sharing projects.
   

Enrichment Through Events

• Schools may organise AI exhibitions, competitions, or seminars to deepen understanding.
   
• Inter-school AI Olympiads or hackathons are encouraged to enhance peer-to-peer learning.

How to Download the AI Book and Syllabus

For 2025, CBSE and NCERT have made learning resources widely accessible:

• NCERT AI Book for Class 10 is available as a PDF and can be downloaded from the official NCERT portal. It includes theory, activities, and exercises.
   
• CBSE AI syllabus for Class 10 (2025-26) is downloadable from the CBSE academic website. It lists all learning objectives, topics, and assessment formats.
   
• Artificial Intelligence Book PDF Class 10 can also be obtained from school intranets, teacher groups, or educational platforms like Diksha and E-Pathshala.
   
• Look for AI subject code 417 when searching on official portals for accurate materials.

Evaluation and Assessment

The assessment approach for the AI subject is different from traditional examinations:

• Theory Assessment accounts for 50% of the final score. It includes multiple-choice questions, case studies, and short-answer questions based on AI concepts.
   
• Practical Assessment includes project reports, code submissions, presentations, and real-world AI model demonstrations.
   
• Formative Evaluation is done through classroom tasks, peer reviews, and teacher observations during project work.
   
• Continuous Assessment ensures that students are not judged by a single exam but by their growth throughout the year.

Integration with Other Subjects

AI complements other areas of study and enhances cross-disciplinary thinking:

• Mathematics is strengthened through logic development, algorithms, and data interpretation.
   
• Science is enhanced by introducing simulations, predictions, and machine applications in biology or physics.
   
• Computer Science is naturally connected to AI through coding, networks, and digital design.
   
• Social Studies and Humanities explore the ethical and economic impact of AI on society, governance, and employment.
   

Teachers are encouraged to plan interdisciplinary AI activities, such as creating AI-powered history timelines or environmental data trackers.

Career Opportunities After Learning AI

Students who study AI in school build skills that can lead to promising careers. Possible future roles include:

• Data Analyst: Interprets and presents trends from data.
   
• Machine Learning Engineer: Designs and trains AI systems.
   
• Software Developer: Uses AI tools in app and web development.
   
• AI Researcher: Studies and improves AI algorithms and systems.
   
• Robotics Technician: Builds intelligent machines and devices.
   

These roles exist across sectors, including healthcare, education, e-commerce, cybersecurity, logistics, and entertainment.

Trends in AI Education Worldwide

India's CBSE is not alone in recognising the importance of AI in education. Some global trends include:

• Finland has introduced AI literacy modules for secondary students using gamification.
   
• Singapore integrates AI ethics and applications into their computing syllabus.
   
• United States schools use platforms like Google's AIY and IBM's Watson in classroom projects.
   

CBSE's step to introduce an Artificial Intelligence syllabus for Class 9 CBSE and scale it across Classes 10 to 12 aligns India with global education leaders.

Tips for Educators and School Leaders

To make AI education meaningful and inclusive, schools should consider the following strategies:

• Set up AI clubs: Encourage students to experiment with real-world challenges using AI tools.
   
• Introduce basic AI tools: Use free, school-friendly tools like Scratch, Google's Teachable Machine, or MIT App Inventor.
   
• Organise AI workshops: Invite experts or alumni working in tech to share insights.
   
• Collaborate with local industry: Establish partnerships with startups or incubators for mentorship opportunities.
   
• Encourage student-led innovation: Let students lead AI projects that solve local problems or improve school functioning.

Conclusion

The 2025 CBSE AI syllabus caters to a progressive initiative to optimise educational experience along the lines of innovation. It encourages learners to become technology creators and not mere users. Students will have what it takes to thrive in an ever-digitalising world when parents as stakeholders, schools, and teachers work hand-in-hand.

For school leaders, teachers, or anyone passionate about education, try to become a member of the SELIN Club, which supports educational growth, leadership, and innovation. Visit the SELIN Club site to be kept informed about best practices as far as AI learning goes, and network with other like-minded professionals.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is new in the CBSE AI syllabus Class 10 for 2025–26?

With the addition of revamped coding exercises, real life case studies and better modules for ethical AI learning, among other things.

2. How can I download the Artificial Intelligence book for Class 10?

You can find it for free download on the NCERT or CBSE academic site.

3. Where can I find the AI Class 10 book Code 417 PDF?

It is available as an elective skill subject on the academic website of CBSE under the code 417. 

4. What will be studied through the CBSE AI syllabus 2025?

The syllabus entails the basics of AI, data handling, machine learning, natural language processing, ethics, and practical projects. 

5. Will Artificial Intelligence be compulsory at Class 10 under CBSE? 

For the present, AI is a school-based elective skill subject, thus made available at its discretion.