What is the difference between CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE and IB?

As we grow towards technologically advanced environments, our school and education system demands effective ways to educate our children and make them future-ready. With so many subjects and specialisations, one may get overwhelmed with what to choose when choosing schools.

The Indian education system is the most refined form of education yet incomparable with the international curriculum. But why are parents more inclined towards IGCSE and IB, and are CBSE and ICSE boards not good enough for students?

This blog will detail the difference between CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE and IB to help you understand the best board for your child.

What is CBSE?

CBSE, or Central Board of Secondary Education, is a standard board of education in India, where students get quality education and receive nationally recognised higher secondary certificates. Science and Mathematics are the core areas of teaching with a theoretical approach. This board is widely spread all over India and is easily accessible for parents working in transferable jobs. The government employees benefit from this board as their children can get quality education in Kendriya Vidyalaya, Navodaya Vidyalaya and Private schools with CBSE boards.

What is ICSE?

Indian Certificate of Secondary Education of ICSE has a broad curriculum covering most subjects with quality education. The main focus of the ICSE board is communication skills and emphasises practical skills. Students can leverage foreign language skills and options to study arts, humanity and commerce. Students receive holistic academic knowledge with such a board curriculum.

What is IGCSE?

IGCSE, or International General Certificate of Secondary Education, is an international education system with an English curriculum focusing on practical knowledge rather than a theoretical approach. Students who are admitted to this curriculum learn more than just their textbooks. They have more than two foreign languages that help them to pursue higher education abroad. This system is helpful for parents who are planning to shift overseas or are NRIs.

What is IB?

IB, or International Baccalaureate, is also recognised as an international education system headquartered in Switzerland. It allows students to explore the possibilities of experimentation based on the theories taught in the classroom. Parents wanting to shift abroad can get their children admitted to this board.

While we have discussed all the four types of boards offered by Indian Schools, what is the difference between CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE and IB?

Difference between CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE and IB

CBSE and ICSE are the two main boards of Indian education that are popular and readily available for students across India. They offer almost the same curricula with subjects like Maths, Science, Commerce, Art and Humanity. While CBSE is theory-based in terms of science and Maths, ICSE is a bit practical. ICSE also allows students to explore Arts and Humanitarian subjects and promotes the English language more than CBSE.

Most national-level examinations like JEE, IIT, GMAT, and NEET recognise CBSE and ICSE boards and consider students with marks higher than 90%. Students get an excellent opportunity to learn when they opt for these boards. They have a holistic view of the syllabus and are great at communication.

IGCSE and IB boards are not so popular in Indian schools. Only a few schools in the entire country offer these boards. They need to be more centrally recognised and emphasise more on language acquisition. These boards are advantageous for students planning to study aboard and for parents wanting to shift abroad.

As these boards are recognised internationally, their education system is advanced in technology, language and orientation. Students learn foreign languages and acquire rigorous curriculum through these boards.

Which board is best for your child?

The difference between CBSE, ICSE, IGSCE and IB will clarify your decision. However, the choice of school or board highly depends upon the future perspective of your child’s education. Students who want to pursue education abroad might want to upskill themselves, and the best choice for them would be IB or IGCSE board. However, these boards demand higher fees as their curriculum differs.

If you want your child to pursue Medicine or Engineering with one of the top institutions of India, like IIT or AIIMS, then CBSE and ICSE are the best choices for you. These boards are not on the higher side of fees and offer excellent student syllabi.

Why is the CBSE board preferable?

The CCE system, which evaluates students based on their performance throughout the year instead of only their achievement on exams, has been implemented by CBSE. CBSE has implemented several technology-driven initiatives to make learning more exciting and efficient, including digital classrooms, e-learning platforms, and online exams. The CBSE board takes a balanced approach to both academics and extracurriculars. It encourages students to participate in athletics, cultural activities, and other extracurricular pursuits to support holistic development.

Importance of excellent curriculum

Effective pedagogy is essential for students to be interested, motivated, and capable of meeting their learning goals. Using assessments, teachers can better understand how well their pupils learn and where they might need extra assistance. Quizzes, examinations, essays, projects, and other forms of assignments are all examples of assessments. Counselling, tutoring, and academic advising are just a few student support services schools frequently offer. These services support students in overcoming obstacles to learning and maximising their potential.

Educational boards establish educational policies and standards and ensure that schools and higher education institutions adhere to them. High-quality education and preparation for success in college, the workplace, and life are two things that educational boards are essential in ensuring kids obtain.

Students can learn from numerous boards and institutions across the nation. They should be fearless in considering other possibilities because they never know which suits them best.

SKV, a residential CBSE school, offers students the highest quality education with a global perspective. We have a multicultural focus, celebrating diversity and providing opportunities for students to learn about different cultures and perspectives. With our numerous courses and languages, you can examine your alternatives and apply for admission to one of the best CBSE schools in India.