Why are International Boards becoming Popular in India | Discover with KRWS Ghaziabad

Education is evolving rapidly, and with globalization influencing every aspect of life, parents are increasingly seeking world-class education for their children. International curricula have gained significant popularity in India, offering students a holistic learning experience that prepares them for global opportunities. Schools adopting international frameworks emphasize critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, ensuring students develop the skills to thrive in an interconnected world.

One such institution that embodies this global vision is K.R. Mangalam World School, Vaishali, one of the best schools in Ghaziabad. The school has been honored with the prestigious International School Award (ISA) by the British Council, highlighting its commitment to delivering globally benchmarked education.

In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the growing demand for international education in India, the benefits of globally recognized curricula, and how schools like K.R. Mangalam World School are shaping future-ready students.

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Top International Boards in India

Let us take a look at the top international boards present in India:

1. International Baccalaureate (IB)

The IB is a widely acknowledged educational institution offering programs for students aged 3 to 19 across 150 countries and 4000+ schools. It includes the Primary and Middle Years Programmes (PYP & MYP), Diploma Programmes (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP).

The IB programs include core elements that foster intellectual exploration, independent research, community engagement, etc, such as: 

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
• Extended Essay (EE)
• Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS)

In India, there are 210 IB schools to ensure the holistic development of all students. Between 2018 and 2021 alone, the number of students in IB schools increased by about 24 per cent.

2. Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)

The Cambridge Assessment International Education is a part of the University of Cambridge offered by 10,000 schools in more than 160 countries. Recognized as one of the most flexible education boards in India, CAIE offers more than 70 subject alternatives at the IGCSE level. 

The curriculum focuses on the English language and the creative expression of students. The number of Cambridge-affiliated schools in India has grown by over 15% over the last four years. 

3. International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)

IGCSE is one of the most popular international boards in India, known for its international standards and local cultural relevance. It offers a wide choice of subjects for students.

The IGCSE board offers 70 subjects available in the IGCSE Program, including 30 languages, and schools can offer them in any combination.
 

Why are International Boards Getting Popular in India?

In the past few years, International boards have grown quite popular in India. Let us look at some of the reasons behind this popularity:

• Global Opportunities: Owing to global recognition, international boards have become quite popular in India. International boards have gained significance not only at the school level but also at university and job levels. This recognition comes along with opportunities provided to students of international boards globally. 
• Unique Curriculum: The curriculum provided by international boards is distinct from that of typical schools. The curriculum promotes a mindset that extends beyond the classroom.  As a result, students' perspectives are widened, their interests and abilities are discovered, and they develop a well-rounded education that combines academic knowledge with practical life skills. 
• Assessment Pattern: The assessment techniques used by international school boards are robust and based on an application-focused methodology. Unlike traditional exams, this makes use of case studies, presentations, project work, practical evaluations, and other group endeavours. This helps in the development of life skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication. 
• Bridging the Skills Gaps: A common problem in the traditional education system is that students have academic knowledge, however, they are not well equipped with practical skills, making them unprepared for the job. However, international boards come to the rescue of the students, bridging the skill set gaps. International Boards advocate for the cultivation and ownership of skills and capacities essential for future employment.
   

How are Schools Incorporating International Standards?

Many Indian schools have successfully integrated international education systems while maintaining a strong foundation in local culture and values. Schools that follow international education models often adopt the following strategies:

• Multidisciplinary Learning Approaches: Instead of compartmentalized subjects, topics are interconnected across disciplines.
• Student-Centered Classrooms: Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students toward self-driven learning rather than just delivering lectures.
• Project-Based and Experiential Learning: Hands-on projects, case studies, and real-world applications help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
• Integration of Global Perspectives: International collaborations, guest lectures from foreign educators, and cultural immersion activities expose students to diverse viewpoints.
   

Difference between International vs CBSE vs ICSE 

Let's examine the differences between CBSE, ICSE, and the top international boards.

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K.R. Mangalam World School: A Commitment to Global Excellence

K.R. Mangalam World School (KRM) in Vaishali, Ghaziabad, established in 2012, has rapidly gained recognition for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development. Serving over 3,500 students from Pre-Nursery to Class XII, KRM, one of the best CBSE schools in Ghaziabad, provides a nurturing atmosphere that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. 

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Affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), KRM emphasizes a balanced approach to education by integrating extracurricular activities such as arts, sports, and community service into its curriculum. This holistic methodology ensures that students develop essential life skills alongside academic knowledge. 

With a curriculum that fosters international-mindedness, K.R. Mangalam World School ensures that students receive an education that is not just academically enriching but also culturally diverse and globally relevant. The school's dedication to academic excellence is reflected in its outstanding board results, with students achieving perfect scores in subjects like English, Economics, and Painting. 

KRM boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, including centrally air-conditioned facilities, smart classrooms equipped with advanced teaching technologies, and well-designed corridors and staircases to ensure smooth movement within the premises. The 3-acre urban campus also offers extensive sports amenities and various co-curricular activities, enhancing the learning experience and promoting active student engagement.

For more information on this and other such schools in the area, check out this list of the best schools in Ghaziabad.

Explore the Best Schools in Ghaziabad