Top Boarding Schools in India 2025-26: Fees, Admissions, Rankings & Reviews

With over 1,000 established boarding schools across the country, India has become a leading destination for structured residential education. These boarding schools in India combine modern pedagogy with strong value systems, often located in serene environments conducive to focused learning.

Be it in the hills of Himachal or the plains of Maharashtra, boarding schools across India cater to a wide spectrum of educational philosophies and parental expectations. These schools are known for their strong academic traditions, English-medium instruction, and affordable quality, thus offering a compelling alternative to Western boarding institutions.
 

Boarding Schools in India: Key Highlights

Quick Facts about Boarding Schools in India (2025-26)

• India has 1,480+ boarding schools, with CBSE being the most common affiliation (1,100+ schools).
• Fees in Indian residential schools range widely, from below ₹1 lakh in affordable schools to above ₹30 lakh in premium international institutions.
• CBSE dominates the residential school landscape in India, covering nearly 70% of total institutions.
• About 80% of boarding schools in India are co-educational, while only a limited number are boys-only or girls-only.
• Full boarding schools (970+) dominate in India, but day-cum-boarding schools (490+) are growing in popularity.
• There are 145+ international boarding schools in India, offering IB or Cambridge IGCSE curricula.
• Leading residential schools in India include The Doon School, Woodstock School, Mussoorie International School, The Scindia School, and Mayo College.
   

Top 10 Boarding Schools in India with Fee Structure (2025-26)

Here is a list of the top 10 boarding schools in India: The Doon School, Mussoorie International School, Woodstock School, The TonsBridge School, The Academic City School, The Scindia School, GD Goenka International School, Welham Girls’ School, Bishop Cotton School and The Lawrence School. The annual fee in the top 10 schools in India usually ranges from Rs. 3.10 lakhs to Rs. 30.86 lakhs.

Here is a look at the fee structure of the top 10 residential schools in India:

Note: The fee structures mentioned here are to the best of our knowledge. For the most accurate and detailed breakdown of costs, we strongly recommend that you cross-check the latest fee structure directly with the school's admissions office or connect directly with Ezyschooling admission counsellors.
 

Top 5 Boarding Schools in India: By Search

Based on Google Search Trends 2025, the top 5 boarding schools in India are Woodstock School, The Doon School, JAIN International Residential School, The Scindia School and Harrow International School. This ranking reflects online search popularity, giving a snapshot of which schools are currently drawing the most attention from parents and students.

Here are the top 5 boarding schools in India, searched for most on Google in 2025, along with their search score:

 

Best Boarding Schools in India for Girls

The best boarding schools for girls in India include Welham Girls’ School, Musssoorie International School and Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, among several others. Specifically designed to foster female empowerment, these top girls' boarding schools in India are known to offer a safe environment with strong pastoral care and mentorship programs.

Here is a quick look at the best boarding schools for girls in India:

 

Best Boarding Schools for Boys in India

The Doon School, The Scindia School and Bishop Cotton School are some of the best boys’ boarding schools in India. Renowned for their long-standing tradition of producing leaders in every field, these boarding schools for boys focus on building resilience, independence, and a strong moral compass.

Here is a quick look at the top boarding schools for boys in India:

 

Best Coed Boarding Schools in India

Some of the best coed boarding schools in India are Woodstock School, The TonsBridge School and The Academic City Schools. The top coed boarding schools in India are known to offer a balanced and realistic environment that mirrors the diverse world students will enter after graduation. These schools are designed to foster mutual respect, collaboration, and a healthy exchange of ideas between genders. 

Here is a table listing the top 5 coed boarding schools in India:

 

Government Boarding Schools in India

There are quite a few government boarding schools in India that had been set up in order to ensure that quality education is accessible to children from all walks of life. Some of the best government boarding schools in India include Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, Ekalavya Model Residential Schools and Sainik Schools.

Here is a table detailing the best government residential schools in India:

Source: Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, Sainik Schools Society, Ministry of Tribal Affairs
 

Affordable Boarding Schools in India

Several affordable boarding schools in India offer quality education, well-rounded development, and excellent infrastructure at accessible fee structures, such as The Academic City School in Bangalore, GD Goenka International School in Rohtak and DPS Durgapur. These schools maintain a strong focus on academics, discipline, and personal growth, making them ideal choices for families seeking value without compromising on educational standards.

Here is a table detailing some of the affordable residential schools in India:

 

Best CBSE Boarding Schools in India

The most widely adopted curriculum in India, CBSE boarding schools are known for their comprehensive syllabus that prepares students for national competitive examinations like NEET and JEE. Some of the best CBSE boarding schools in India include The TonsBridge School, The Academic City School and The Scindia School.

Here is a table with more information on the best CBSE boarding schools in India:

 

Best IB Boarding Schools in India

The best IB boarding schools in India are The Doon School, Mussoorie International School and Woodstock School. These IB boarding schools in India are known for their inquiry-based, globally benchmarked curriculum and student-centered approach.

Let us take a closer look at the best IB residential schools in India:

 

Best International Boarding Schools in India

India has emerged as a strong hub for international boarding schools that offer globally recognized curricula such as IB (International Baccalaureate) and Cambridge (IGCSE). Some of the best international boarding schools in India are The Doon School, Mussoorie International School and Woodstock School.

Here is a closer look at the top international residential schools in India:

*Note: The fee structures mentioned here are to the best of our knowledge. For the latest and detailed breakdown, please confirm with the school’s admissions office or reach out to our expert advisors.
 

Why are Boarding Schools Becoming a Popular Option in India?

Boarding schools in India have witnessed increasing enrollment from both domestic and international students in recent years. In fact, according to data analysis by Ezyschooling, there has been a significant shift in parental preference toward residential education between 2022 and 2025, marking a clear upward trend compared to the period from 2015 to 2020.

But why are residential schools in India growing so popular? Here are some reasons why:

• Legacy Institutions: Many Indian boarding schools, such as The Doon School (est. 1935), The Lawrence School (est. 1847) and Mayo College (est. 1875), boast over a century of educational excellence.
• Academic Performance: Indian boarding schools consistently report above 85% average scores in national and international board examinations.
• Diverse Curriculum Options: Schools offer CBSE, ICSE, IB, IGCSE, and state syllabi, meeting a wide range of educational needs.
• Career Success: Boarding school alumni often advance quickly in their careers. TABS data shows 44% reached top management positions by mid-career, and 50% earned advanced degrees.
• Safe and Structured Environments: With round-the-clock supervision and secure campuses, these schools prioritize student safety and well-being.
• Peer Motivation: 78% of boarding students are known to feel motivated by their peers, compared to 49% of public school students.
• Personal Growth: Living away from home helps students develop independence, time management, and responsibility at an early stage. 
• All-Round Development: Emphasis on sports, leadership, debate, community service, and performing arts creates balanced individuals.
• Global Alumni Networks: Indian boarding school alumni include Nobel laureates, heads of state, CEOs, artists, scientists, and diplomats.
• Geographical Diversity: From Mussoorie and Ooty to Bengaluru and Pune, schools are located in ecologically rich and climatically pleasant regions.

Sources: Oxford Academic, ResearchGate, Hotchkiss, STJ Academy
 

What is the Admission Process for Boarding Schools in India?

The admission process for boarding schools in India usually involves registration, document submission, an entrance test, followed by an interaction round with the school administration. Let us look at these in more detail:

Admission Criteria

Each school might have slightly differing admission criteria, the most prevalent being:

• Satisfying the minimum age criteria according to the class in which admission is sought(if applicable) 
• Past school records and marksheets to determine eligibility for admission to a particular class
• Medical fitness certificate, as schools prioritize student health and well-being. (if applicable)
• Behavioural certificate if transferring from another school
• Priority to siblings of current students or children of alumni is also given in some schools
• Parent-child interviews (common in IB/ICSE schools) to assess alignment with school values
• Qualifying entrance tests might also be a criterion of applying for admission to higher classes

Admission Process

While each school may have its own nuances, the general admission process for the best residential schools in India follows these steps:

1. Online/Offline Registration: Fill out the application form on the school’s website or in person during the admission window.
2. Submission of Required Documents: Upload or submit physical copies of all required documents along with the application form and fee.
3. Entrance Assessment (if applicable): Students may be invited to take a written test in subjects like English, Math, or Science, depending on the grade level.
4. Parent-Child Interaction/Interview: An informal session to assess the child’s readiness and the family’s compatibility with the school’s philosophy.
5. Review of Academic & Medical Records: The school verifies previous performance, health status, and overall suitability.
6. Offer of Admission: Selected candidates receive an admission offer via email or official communication.
7. Fee Payment and Enrollment Confirmation: Admission is confirmed after fee payment within the given deadline.
8. Orientation & Onboarding: Parents and students are invited to orientation sessions before the academic session begins.

Please Note: Parents can apply to partner schools directly through the Ezyschooling website, online, in less than 15 minutes. With a single form, you can apply to multiple schools, track application status, get personalized recommendations, and access expert admission support, all in one place.

Documents Required

The documents required for admission usually include the following:

• Birth certificate (original + copy)
• Address proof (Aadhaar, utility bill, rental agreement)
• Parent/child ID proofs (PAN, passport)
• Previous school transcripts (if applicable)
• Medical records (vaccination certificate, allergy/disability disclosures)
• Transfer certificate, for mid-year admissions
• Passport-sized photos of the child and parents
• Application form (online/physical) with fee receipt
• Extracurricular certificates, if required

Note: The admission timeline, criteria, process and document requirements mentioned above are general guidelines and may vary between schools. Some institutions might waive certain documents or request additional ones. Verify all the information on the official school website before proceeding further.
 

How to Choose the Best Boarding School in India for your Child?

The decision of choosing the best boarding school in India depends on several key factors, the most important of them being your child’s learning style, needs and aspirations. The facilities provided by the schools, safety measures and the budget for the same also play a crucial role.

Here is a closer look at how you can choose the best residential school in India for your child:

• Child’s Needs: Choose a school that supports your child’s learning style, personality, and interests.
• Curriculum: Review options such as CBSE, IB, or ICSE to find one aligned with your child’s strengths and future plans.
• Holistic Development: Prioritise schools that balance academics with sports, arts, leadership, and life skills.
• Location: If proximity matters, select a school closer to home to reduce travel stress.
• Teaching Quality: Look for a healthy student-teacher ratio and interactive, concept-focused learning methods.
• Budget: Review the full fee structure, including extras like transport, uniforms, and books. Ask about scholarships.
• Reputation: Speak to current parents and students and check verified reviews for authentic feedback.
• Campus Visit: Tour the school to assess safety, hygiene, and the learning environment.
  • Attempt to enter the campus without prior notice to test gate security – how secure is the school campus?
  • Observe the classroom atmosphere – are students actively engaged and listening to the teacher?
  • Visit bathrooms in different blocks for consistency – is hygiene and sanitation maintained regularly?

Note: The term “best school” is highly subjective and can vary based on each child’s learning needs, family values, lifestyle, and academic goals. Instead of chasing rankings or popularity, parents should focus on finding a school that aligns with their child’s interests, emotional well-being, and long-term development goals.
 

Our Ranking Methodology (2025-26)

At Ezyschooling, our rankings are built on the understanding that the definition of the “best” boarding school varies from family to family. To ensure relevance and objectivity, our 2025-26 rankings are based on a multi-criteria evaluation framework that reflects both academic excellence and broader developmental priorities, such as infrastructural facilities, teachers and quality of teaching, parental interest, ratings and reviews, etc.

Our 2025-26 internal rankings are based on:

• Location Factor: For national rankings, we evaluate schools across all regions of India based on educational reputation, climate, and accessibility. Rather than limiting to city boundaries, we prioritize schools in learning-focused hubs (like Dehradun, Ooty, and Bangalore), and those located in ecologically rich, safe environments with good transport connectivity. 
• Academic Record: We prioritize schools with consistently strong board exam results (CBSE, ICSE, IB, or state boards) over the past 3 to 5 years. Schools affiliated with nationally/internationally recognized boards (like CBSE, ICSE, or IB) are weighted higher for their structured curricula and global relevance.
• Infrastructural Facilities: The campus size, quality of classrooms, availability of specialized facilities such as labs (robotics, science, computer, etc), swimming pools, indoor and outdoor sports complexes are also considered.
• Emphasis on Holistic Development: Schools are also assessed based on their commitment to holistic development and the availability of extracurricular activities. Schools that offer a balance of extracurricular activities, sports, life skills programs, and creative pursuits are prioritized more.
• Teachers and Quality of Teaching: Student-teacher ratio is a key metric. We also assess teacher qualifications, training programs, and retention rates. Schools that encourage innovative teaching methods over rote memorization score higher.
• Legacy & Credibility: The establishment year helps gauge experience and stability. Older schools often have established alumni networks and proven track records, while newer institutions may offer modern pedagogy. We also consider the institution’s local reputation and community trust.
• Parental Interest & Engagement: At Ezyschooling, we track key indicators like profile views, clicks, and frequent inquiries to gauge parent interest in a school. Time spent on a school profile and scheduled school visits reflect satisfaction, helping us identify schools that genuinely connect with families.
• Ratings and Reviews: We track authentic parent feedback regarding the school through ratings and reviews submitted on Ezyschooling, as well as those available on other public domains.

Please Note: This is not an official ranking. However, we do assign and regularly update internal ranks to schools based on the weightage of the key factors mentioned above, thus serving parents with schools that score highly on our matrix. 
 

How We Gather & Verify Data

Information is gathered from official school websites (especially Mandatory Disclosures), data provided by partnered schools, education board portals (CBSE, CISCE/ ICSE, IB, IGCSE/ Cambridge), government databases(Know Your School and UDISE+), parent feedback, site visits (wherever feasible) as well as analysis of public domain data, verified and cross-referenced with school authorities by our team of education experts. 

We prioritize transparency by:

• Regular Updates: Refreshing data regularly to reflect new schools, fee revisions, curriculum changes, classes offered, admission status and more school-related data.
• Verification Process: Cross-checking critical details (e.g., fees, facilities, board affiliations, etc.) with multiple sources, as listed above.
• User Feedback: Encouraging schools and parents to suggest corrections or additions via query@ezyschooling.com.
   

How Ezyschooling is Helping Parents Find the Right Boarding Schools in India

At Ezyschooling, we understand that the journey to finding the right school for your child can be overwhelming. That's why we are here to simplify the process and guide you through every step of the application journey. Whether you are considering one of India’s prestigious boarding schools or looking for an affordable option, we offer tailored support to help you make the right decision.

Here’s how Ezyschooling can assist you:

1. Explore Schools with Ease: Our platform gives you access to detailed school profiles, including curriculum, fee structure, admission requirements, and reviews from other parents. You can quickly compare schools to find the best match for your child’s academic needs, personality, and family values.
2. One-Click Applications: Apply to multiple boarding schools with just one form. Ezyschooling makes it easy to submit applications to your preferred schools in less than 15 minutes, saving you time and hassle. With Ezyschooling, you can also upload documents, pay application fees, and manage everything online through a secure and user-friendly platform.
3. Personalized Recommendations: Our expert admission counselors provide personalized school recommendations based on your preferences, your child’s strengths, and your budget. With Ezyschooling, you are assured of getting the right options that suit your unique needs.
4. Stay Updated: Track the status of your applications in real time. Our platform ensures you are always informed about the progress of your child’s admission process.
5. Expert Support: We provide in-depth guidance on admission requirements, entrance exams, and the overall process. Our team is ready to assist you with any questions, offering insights based on the latest updates from schools across India.

With Ezyschooling, parents no longer have to stress over multiple applications, scattered information, or missed deadlines. By bringing everything onto one platform, from exploring schools to easy applications and expert guidance, Ezyschooling ensures that every child gets the right opportunity and every parent finds peace of mind in the admission journey.
 

Expert Behind This Page

Published By: Riya Sree Kaishyap

Riya Sree Kaishyap is a Senior Content Writer at Ezyschooling with specialized expertise in the Indian K-12 education system since 2020. Her content is a blend of in-depth research and real-world insights, drawn from direct collaboration with Ezyschooling’s on-ground admissions counsellors and data analytics teams, while also being in direct touch with the schools. With a focus on simplifying the often-stressful process of school selection, she authors detailed guides, articles, and analyses that help parents make informed decisions.