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Which board is best for my child — CBSE, ICSE, or IB?

CBSE is best for families who may relocate within India, students targeting JEE/NEET/UPSC, and those preferring a structured, textbook-based curriculum. ICSE suits students with strong English language interests, those targeting UK/US universities, and learners who thrive in multi-subject, project-balanced environments. IB is ideal for internationally mobile families, students targeting global top-50 universities, and inquiry-driven, research-oriented learners. There is no universally best board — the right fit depends on the child's learning profile and family's long-term goals.

Is IB Diploma recognised for Indian university admissions?

Yes. The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) officially recognises the IB Diploma as equivalent to Class 12 for Indian university admissions. IB students can apply to Indian universities including IITs (via JEE), NITs, and Delhi University. However, IB students applying to JEE/NEET should be aware that IB's DP curriculum differs significantly from NCERT — most IB students pursuing IIT admission require supplementary JEE coaching alongside the DP.

What is the fee range for top CBSE schools in Indian metros?

Top CBSE schools in Indian metros (Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru) charge ₹80,000-₹3,50,000/year in annual tuition for day schools. Total annual cost including transport, uniforms, activity fees, and books typically adds ₹30,000-₹1,50,000. Mid-tier CBSE schools in tier-2 cities charge ₹25,000-₹1,20,000/year. Government CBSE schools (KVs, JNVs) charge nominal fees of ₹1,500-₹12,000/year.

What is the Right to Education (RTE) Act provision for school admissions?

The Right to Education Act 2009 mandates that all recognised private unaided schools reserve 25% of Class 1 seats for children from economically weaker sections (EWS) and disadvantaged groups within 1 km of the school. These seats are allocated through lottery and the tuition fee is reimbursed to the school by the state government. Parents in EWS/DG category should apply during the state-specific RTE lottery window (typically February-April each year).

How do I verify a school's CBSE affiliation is valid?

Visit cbseaff.nic.in and search by school name or affiliation number. A valid CBSE-affiliated school will show: school name, affiliation number, affiliation status (regular/provisional), school type, and affiliation validity period. If a school's affiliation shows as 'provisional' for more than 3 years or is not found, verify directly with the CBSE regional office before admission.