The Foundational Learning Study (FLS) 2026 will be conducted across India to assess the learning levels of Class 3 students. The study will cover more than 1 lakh students from over 10,000 schools nationwide. The initiative is being conducted under PARAKH, a unit of NCERT, as part of efforts to strengthen foundational education.
FLS 2026 Key Highlights and Coverage
The nationwide study will evaluate basic learning competencies among primary students. It will be conducted across multiple states and districts to ensure broad representation.
- Total Students Covered: Over 1 lakh
- Schools Involved: More than 10,000
- Coverage: Across 776 districts in India
- Conducting Body: PARAKH under NCERT
The assessment will include students from government, aided, and private schools
Purpose of Foundational Learning Study 2026
The study aims to measure foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) skills among children at the end of the primary stage. It will assess:
- Reading ability and comprehension
- Writing skills
- Basic mathematical understanding
The findings will help policymakers improve early education and learning outcomes in schools.
Link with NIPUN Bharat Mission
FLS 2026 is aligned with the NIPUN Bharat Mission, which focuses on ensuring that every child achieves basic learning skills by Class 3. The mission aims to achieve universal foundational literacy and numeracy by 2026–27, making such assessments crucial for tracking progress.
Digital Assessment Format Introduced
A key change in FLS 2026 is the shift to a digital assessment model. Unlike previous studies, this assessment will use tablet-based testing instead of traditional paper-based methods. This change is expected to:
- Improve accuracy of data collection
- Reduce manual errors
- Enable faster result analysis
Nature of FLS 2026 Assessment
The Foundational Learning Study is not a formal board exam. It is a diagnostic survey designed to understand students’ learning levels.There will be:
- No pass or fail criteria
- No individual grading or ranking
- No impact on student promotion
The primary goal is to strengthen teaching methods and education policies based on real data.
Why Foundational Learning is Important?
Foundational literacy and numeracy are essential skills that enable students to progress in higher classes. By Class 3, children are expected to develop basic reading and arithmetic abilities.These skills form the base for future learning and overall academic success.
What Happens After FLS 2026?
The results of the study will be used by education authorities to design better policies and interventions. It will also help track progress under national education initiatives. Insights from FLS 2026 are expected to play a key role in improving the quality of primary education across India.