ICSE vs IGCSE vs IB vs CBSE vs NIOS: Choosing the Right Board

Are you looking for a new school for your child? Are you trying to differentiate the different educational boards out there in an attempt to find the right one for your child? ICSE vs IGCSE vs CBSE vs NIOS vs IB - choosing the right board does not have to be overwhelming. ICSE, IGCSE, IB, CBSE, and NIOS are all certified and recognised as examination boards by the Department of Higher Education.

The differences lie in their curriculum, their approach to learning, assessment criteria, and a few other factors that we’ll dive into shortly. Let’s take a look at each board so that you can make an informed decision for your child!

What else should you look for?

While understanding how these different boards operate is important, there is something else that you should be aware of when making a decision. We’re talking about teachers! A school is essentially as good as its teachers. Learners can blossom and grow exponentially under the guidance of a good teacher. If you can, interact with the teachers at the school you’re scouting. Or reach out to parents of students that attend those schools to get honest feedback.

Make sure to do your own research of the school. What are the extracurriculars like? How can the school help enable your child to grow? Does the board offer values and choices that are in line with what you and your child have in mind?

What subjects do they offer?

While ICSE, IGCSE, IB, CBSE and NIOS all offer the same core subjects, they differ in the variety of subjects that students can choose from to expand their knowledge and interests. Does the board in question offer subjects that your child is interested in? These are subject to change depending on the schools in question, so make sure to check with schools directly to understand this further.

Identify their hidden curriculum

What is the culture of the school like? While there may be hundreds of schools following the same board, they’re all different in the way that they run. Do teachers and staff offer an environment for students to speak their minds? Or is it rigid? Are there hidden gender biases in the way that the school treats their students?

Thehidden curriculum is just as important as the board that you choose. While much more subtle in nature, it can have a profound effect on your child’s school experience. Talk to other parents and students who have had experience with the school to identify this.

Identify their null curriculum

As the word rightly suggests, identify subjects and experiences that are not in the curriculum. What would your child lose out on if they were to enrol in that school? Learning occurs in a variety of ways, and in a variety of places. Does the school offer interactions and experiences to students that can enable them to learn beyond the classroom?

Conclusion

When it comes to ICSE vs IGCSE vs IB vs CBSE vs NIOS, choosing the right board boils down to your preference. All three have excellent curriculum and grading systems. If you’re looking to enrol your child in a University abroad, consider choosing ICSE, IGCSE, CBSE, NIOS or IB. If that’s not what you’re looking for, the ICSE and CBSE board offers a competitive curriculum and environment for your child to thrive.

Would you like to know more about schools and alternative education? Check out our blog and Instagram page or write to us at contact@beyond8.in