CBSE VS ICSE VS IB VS IGCSE: Best School Board in India?

The right choice of school board for your child is of huge importance in India. Amidst the 65 school boards, segregated into regular and open, are the most common ones like CBSE, IGCSE, IB, and ICSE. This blog shall help you understand the differences and find out which board will best suit your child. 

Education Boards in India

School boards like CBSE, ICSE, IB, and IGCSE strongly influence students' learning and growth. They shape the learning environment and set the stage for personal development.

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)

CBSE is the most leading education board for public and private schools in India. It is managed by the Government of India, laying down a uniform syllabus having an in-depth approach towards mathematics, science, and English while at the same time giving due attention to Hindi. Its curriculum and exams are designed to emphasize skill- and knowledge-based preparation; therefore, it is easier to crack competitive exams like JEE and NEET. 

Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE)

The balanced syllabus-driven program of the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, the ICSE, includes languages, science, and humanities equally. It lays emphasis on communication and practical skills and gives a student the ability to think creatively and come up with innovative ideas. Through a vibrant curriculum, it provides an all-rounded education, enabling students to excel in all fields.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools

The International Baccalaureate Organization is an international educational foundation based in Geneva, Switzerland. IB schools brag about their global outlook toward learning, helping students take charge of their own learning. Many colleges often give huge exemptions for high scores in IB Higher Level subjects.

International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)

The IGCSE is developed by Cambridge Assessment International Education and focuses more on the development of skills, application of knowledge with much practice, and a globalization perspective. It has standardized external examinations set and marked by Cambridge International Education. The syllabus allows self-directed learning; it enhances critical thinking and develops problem-solving skills.

Differences Between the Boards

The features and challenges of each board are different. Again, how tough it is going to be depends on the individual student preferences, learning style, and academic goals. Here are the major differences:

Subjects Offered

• CBSE: Core subjects include Mathematics, Science, Social Science, English, and optional subjects like Computer Science and Economics.

• ICSE: Offers a wide range of subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and additional languages.

• IB: Includes the Primary Years Program (PYP), Middle Years Program (MYP), and Diploma Program (DP) with subjects like Biology, Computer Science, and Mathematics at Higher and Standard Levels.

• IGCSE: Offers flexible subject choices alongside essential subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science.

Curriculum Structure

• CBSE and ICSE: Follow India-specific curricula with a balanced approach to languages and academics.

• IB and IGCSE: Offer international curricula with a focus on holistic education and global perspectives.

Expenses

• CBSE and ICSE: Range from ₹10,000 to ₹5 lakhs annually.

• IB: Costs between ₹2.5 to ₹8 lakhs annually.

• IGCSE: Fees range from ₹37,000 to ₹65,000 per quarter.

Number of Schools

• CBSE: Over 27,000 schools in India and 240 abroad.

• ICSE: Around 947 schools in India.

• IB: 205 schools in India.

• IGCSE: Approximately 500 schools in India.

Whether it is CBSE, ICSE, IB, or IGCSE, each of these boards has brilliant standards and prospects for one's higher education abroad. The final decision thus rests on individual choice, career goals, and financial considerations.CAREER guidance: The need for a career counsellor

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Ready to take the next step? Book a counselling session today with one of our expert counsellors and start building your future now.