India has a strong educational system. The constitution of India upholds the ideal of equality and provides its citizens with the right to education. It believes in the idea that education is an important basic need. It gives citizens a sense of self-respect. It enhances their lifestyle.
But educational decisions can be difficult. Students and parents often find it difficult to choose between the three primary boards of education: CBSE vs ICSE vs state board. The educational board from which the student passes shapes their future prospects.
But the decision must be calculated. Things like the quality of education, syllabus, medium, and other facilities must be thought before making a decision.
Here is a guide to all three boards to help students and parents understand the differences and make decisions accordingly.
CBSE VS ICSE VS STATE BOARD
There has always been a debate about which board is best. All three are top boards in India. But before we mention the advantages of each of the boards, let us know the differences between the boards.
CBSE
- CBSE stands for Central Board of Secondary Education. It is one of the widely recognized boards of education in India.
- National level board of education.
- Major subjects focused on in CBSE are mathematics and science for developing logical and analytical skills in students.
ICSE
- ICSE stands for Indian Certificate of Secondary Education.
- ICSE is an educational board under the management of the Council for the Indian School Certification Education.
- The major subjects focused on in ICSE are the English language and literature.
STATE BOARD
- State boards are owned and operated by the state government.
- These schools follow the state curriculum.
- The major subject focus of these state boards is regional subjects related to regional language and culture.
COMPARISON BETWEEN THE BOARDS
There are various parameters based on which the decisions regarding the boards are made. Here are some comparisons mentioned between the three boards.
PARAMETER
CBSE
ICSE
STATE BOARD
- Syllabus
The curriculum of CBSE focuses on academics. Its focus is on subjects like Maths and Science. It develops skills like analytical thinking and problem-solving.
The ISCE curriculum focuses more on practical knowledge to help develop skills like communication. Their main focus is on subjects like the English language and literature. Subjects like maths and science are made practical, focusing on the application of the theories.
State board schools follow different curricula. Their focus is on appreciating and acknowledging the regional education. Regional culture, language, and history become the focus of state board schools. It differs from state to state.
Language used to teach
The language used in CBSE schools includes both Hindi and English.
The language used in ISCE schools is English.
The language used in State Board schools is generally the local languages or Hindi.
Grading System
There are continuous grading assessments that reduce the burden on the final examination.
The major grading elements are the practical projects and assessments, along with the examinations.
The grading system in state board schools may differ from region to region. They can mostly be continuous or final examinations.
Board recognition
The majority of the schools in India come under the CBSE board. CBSE scores are often considered by top universities, making it a well-recognised board of education in India.
ISCE board is followed by a few schools. But the rigorous training provided to students makes them well prepared to move abroad for higher studies.
State board schools are recognised only in the region they are situated in. Due to the difference in the grading system and opportunities, they often face problems in admissions that are based on 12th marks.
Mobility and Transfer
Since various schools in India follow the CBSE board, transferring students to different schools becomes easier.
ICSE board prepares students for admission to International schools and universities or in International board schools.
The transfer can become difficult for students in state board schools.
The table of comparison helps clear the confusion about which board to choose.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BOARD?
It is difficult to choose the right board. People often do not look into what are the things they need, which may lead to wrong decisions. Here are some things to keep in mind before choosing the board you wish to enroll your children in.
- Academic goals- The academic goals you wish to set for your children matter a lot. If you are looking forward to introducing your students to the fields of science and maths, CBSE is the right choice. If you wish to build their interest in language and send them abroad for higher education, ICSE is the right choice. If you wish to introduce them to local culture and history, State boards are the correct choice.
- Mobility- If you belong to a family that has transferable jobs, choosing CBSE is the right choice due to its vast presence. ISCE can be preferred if transfer abroad is in the list.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q.1) Which one is better, CBSE vs State board?
Ans. The decision depends on various factors. If you are someone who wishes to develop skills like analytical thinking and problem-solving, CBSE is the right choice. On the other hand, if you wish to introduce your children to regional culture and history, State boards are the perfect choice.
Q.2) Which one is, CBSE or ICSE better?
Ans. ICSE vs CBSE comparison has always been a debate. ICSE board advantages include its rigorous curriculum, which makes it the perfect choice for parents planning to introduce their children to international studies.
CBSE board benefits include its vast reach of schools under the board. If you are someone who travels a lot in the country or has transferable jobs, CBSE would be the right choice.
Q.3) How to choose the right board?
Ans. There are various things to consider when choosing the right board. These include academic goals, mobility and transfer, opportunities, and learning preferences.
Q.4) I have a transferable job, which school should I choose for my child?
Ans. CBSE would be the best choice. Many schools in India follow CBSE board and you can easily find a CBSE school in the states you are transferred in.
Q.5) My child is planning to move abroad for higher studies, which school to choose?
Ans. Choose ISCE board school. It rigorous curriculum aligns with that of schools and universities abroad.
