Is the International Board Better Than CBSE? Choose IB Only If You Can Afford ₹30 Lakh a Year

In recent years, an increasing number of Indian parents are opting to send their children abroad for higher education. As a result, international schools offering globally recognized curricula like IB (International Baccalaureate) and Cambridge (IGCSE) have gained immense popularity. But this raises an important question — is the International Board really better than CBSE? And more crucially, is it worth paying up to ₹30 lakh per year in fees if your child may not even go abroad?

Take the case of Priya Verma (name changed) from Delhi. In 2018, she enrolled her son in an international school, planning for him to study in the US later. However, in 2025, due to changing geopolitical situations and unpredictable American visa and education policies, that plan has been put on hold. Now, she’s exploring universities in Australia, Singapore, or even India instead. “If my child isn’t going abroad, paying ₹25 lakh a year doesn’t make sense,” she says.

Rapid Growth of International Schools in India

International schools are expanding rapidly across India. Earlier, they were concentrated in major metros, but now they’ve reached Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities as well. Yet, experts question whether these schools are suitable for every child or family.

International vs Indian Boards

International schools follow globally recognized curriculums like IB and Cambridge (IGCSE), while Indian schools are generally affiliated with CBSE or ICSE.

The International Board focuses on research skills, creativity, critical thinking, and life skills, encouraging students to explore rather than memorize. In contrast, Indian boards emphasize structured syllabi, marks, and exam-based learning.

This makes IB schools ideal for students who aim to pursue higher studies abroad, as they are already familiar with global learning methods and assessment styles.

Cost Factor: How Expensive Is an IB Education?

The financial difference between the two systems is massive.

• International Schools: ₹7 lakh to ₹30 lakh per year

• Indian Schools (CBSE/ICSE): ₹1 lakh to ₹4 lakh per year

On top of this, IB schools increase fees by 10–15% annually, making long-term affordability a serious concern.

Parents often face “lifestyle inflation” too — keeping up with peers means upgrading gadgets, clothes, cars, and even vacation destinations to match the social environment their children are exposed to.

Key Challenges with International Schools

High Cost: Yearly expenses can easily exceed ₹25–30 lakh including tuition, books, and extracurricular activities.

Teacher Shortage: In smaller cities, finding trained teachers with IB or IGCSE experience is difficult.

Difficult Transition: If a child wants to switch back to the Indian system (like CBSE), it can be challenging. Subjects, grading, and exam patterns differ significantly.

Entrance Exam Disadvantages: Students from IB backgrounds often face difficulties while preparing for Indian medical or engineering entrance exams (like NEET or JEE), as their syllabus and exam pattern differ.

Uncertain Foreign Plans: Changing visa policies and geopolitical issues may affect a student’s overseas education plans, leaving parents questioning whether the huge investment was worth it.

Why Parents Choose IB

Many parents still prefer IB because it provides early exposure to international teaching methods, research-based projects, and independent learning — skills that are highly valued by universities abroad. Students are encouraged to think critically, express opinions, and work collaboratively — all crucial for success in foreign academic systems.

However, experts warn that if your child ultimately continues education in India, the CBSE board is a more pragmatic choice — offering familiarity with the Indian exam structure and affordability without compromising on quality.

When Does IB Make Sense?

Choosing an International Board makes sense only if:

• You are certain that your child will pursue higher education abroad.

• Your family can comfortably manage ₹20–30 lakh per year for schooling without financial strain.

• You value global exposure and holistic learning more than marks-based outcomes.

If there’s any doubt about foreign education, experts suggest shifting to the Indian system around Class 8 or 9 to make the academic transition smoother and align with Indian entrance exams.

The Bottom Line

The International Board undoubtedly offers a broader worldview, advanced curriculum, and global opportunities, but it comes at a steep price. Unless parents have a clear plan and financial backing, investing ₹30 lakh annually in schooling may not be practical.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your child’s goals and your family’s resources — for most Indian students, a strong CBSE foundation is still the smarter, more sustainable path.