With the digital medium breaking all boundaries of learning in the world, it is a tough choice for parents to decide the right education board for their child. While international boards like The International General Certificate of Secondary Education are bringing the world to our country, our good old Central Board for Secondary Education is expanding its horizons. How does one pick an option in a metro city like Bangalore? There are pros and cons to both of them and it is important to make an informed decision. Some of the best IGCSE schools in Bangalore offer an in-depth global understanding while CBSE schools give a national outlook. If you’re in India and are confused between choosing IGCSE and CBSE, you’re at the right place. Read on as we discuss the differences between these two.

Syllabus
Both CBSE and IGCSE syllabi are very different from each other. CBSE has a nationwide prescribed syllabus. They follow the NCERT textbooks which are widely available. IGCSE, on the other hand, has no defined syllabus. They have a global perspective and hence, there are a set of most recommended textbooks and reference books in every region.

Subject Choices
CBSE offers three streams with a bunch of specific subjects. They are Science, Commerce and Arts. Each stream has pre-decided subjects that must be studied. English is the only compulsory subject across the three streams. IGCSE offers a wide array of 70 subjects, of which a student can choose any. There is no bar on the types of subjects chosen.

Medium of Education
CBSE board allows students to study in Hindi as well as English mediums. IGCSE is a global board and offers to learn only in English.

General Approach
There is a major difference in the approach of these two education boards. CBSE takes the traditional route of learning, in order to equip students for the Indian examinations and competitive market. It is a very theoretical learning pattern. IGCSE takes a more holistic and practical approach, focussing on the overall development. Application of theory is very important in IGCSE.

Fee
IGCSE is much more expensive than CBSE, ICSE and all other state boards available in India. CBSE is affordable for people coming from different financial backgrounds.

Availability of Schools and Coaching
There are a wide range of schools around the country which are recognized by CBSE. Coaching classes and tuitions are also easily available. IGCSE is a more exclusive board and is in its nascent stages in India. There are fewer schools and coaching centres in India but the numbers are growing.

Complexity Level and Criteria of Assessment
Rote learning outweighs understanding and knowledge in CBSE. The focus lies on the ability to recall concepts and memorize topics. Compared to all other boards, CBSE also has fewer subjects thereby being more scoring and having lesser complexity. IGCSE is much more demanding and has a variety of written, oral and practical examinations and assignments. The focus is heavily on building deep understanding and knowledge.

After an insightful analysis of both these education boards, it would be wise to go through the best CBSE schools in Bangalore and IGCSE schools available before making a choice.