Best Boarding Schools in India Across Diverse Categories: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024-2025

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Education is the foundation for your child’s future success, and selecting the best option to meet your specific needs and preferences is crucial. If you’re looking for the best boarding school options in India to enrol your child, we can assist you.

We understand how challenging it can be to choose the right school for your child, especially when so many options and suggestions are available. However, what seems great for one family or person may not be right for another, and that’s completely okay. Instead, what’s not okay is the feeling of worry, dissatisfaction, or uncertainty about making the wrong decision.

To guide you through this journey, we’ve compiled a list featuring the best boarding schools in India across diverse categories, a comprehensive guide for the 2024-2025 academic year. We ensure that your child gets the best possible education with no regrets.

 

Education Boards

When it comes to selecting a school, the number one preference of parents is selecting the board they want their kid to enrol in. Considering this choice, here is the list of top boarding schools in India, concerning different board preferences.

 

Best Boarding Schools Affiliated with CBSE

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) stands as one of the most widely recognized educational boards in India, regulated by the Indian Union Government. With over 24000 affiliated private and public schools, CBSE ensures a standardized and quality education with a PAN India presence. Here, we highlight some of the top CBSE boarding schools, offering an excellent platform for your child’s holistic development:

1. JAIN International Residential School, (JIRS) Bangalore

Founded in 1999, JIRS is one of the top CBSE as well as sports residential schools in India. The school is rooted in tradition and firmly believes that academic performance and quality of life are closely intertwined with health.

2. The Academic City School, Indore

The Academic City School is another career-oriented option for the best CBSE boarding schools in India. It’s a popular choice among parents because it offers holistic development beyond conventional academics. The school provides various co-curricular activities such as sports, music, farming, dance, arts and more to help students grow in all aspects of life.

3. Tula’s International School

Tula’s International School in Dehradun, Uttarakhand was established in 2012. It is recognized as one of the top boarding schools, the Modern Gurukul, focusing on quality education and a well-rounded student experience.

4. Heritage Public School, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

For parents searching for the best boarding school, Heritage Public School is worth considering. Although it is a co-ed school, but it is also an all-boys boarding school. All the teachers at this school are well-qualified and trained according to CBSE guidelines. Additionally, the school offers a range of facilities for various types of games and sports.

5. The Emerald Heights International School Indore

Ranked at the first position in the category of co-ed day-cum-boarding school, The Emerald Heights International School is valued for inspiring students for their holistic development. The school delivers internationally well-known qualifications that are recognised across the globe.

6. SelaQui International Boarding School

This Boarding School is renowned for its high-quality education, attracting students from various countries. It excels in preparing students for both national and international exams. With impressive infrastructure and facilities, it stands out as one of the best boarding schools in Dehradun and India.

7. SAI International School, Bhubaneswar

Established in 2008, SAI International School has consistently secured the top position among Indian schools for four years and the top boarding school in Odisha for five years. The school is providing 360° holistic development encompassing the mind, body, and soul of its students.

 

Top ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) Board Schools

The Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) is renowned for its emphasis on a comprehensive and analytical learning experience. If you’re inclined towards the ICSE board for your child’s education, here’s a glimpse of some of the top ICSE boarding schools in India:

1. Sherwood College

One of the most reputable and established boarding schools in India is Sherwood College. Here, students receive quality education as well as skills for their physical, emotional, spiritual, and artistic growth.

2. Unison World School

For parents seeking ICSE education, Unison World School can be the ideal choice. Reputable for providing outstanding living and learning environments, it guarantees students an excellent educational experience. Further, this all-girls residential school ranked third in India and second in Uttarakhand.

3. St Geoge College Mussorie

St. George’s College is one of the top ICSE schools for boys. It’s a renowned premier boarding school that provides both residential and non-residential facilities. The school mandates participation in various sports activities, which are available on the school premises, providing students with various options.

Gender-Specific Boarding Schools

While each type of boarding school has its own set of advantages, the decision often boils down to what parents believe would best suit the individual needs and preferences of their child. These gender-specific institutions create spaces where students can thrive academically and personally, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among peers.

1. Top Boys’ Boarding Schools 

Boys’ boarding schools are known for cultivating traits such as discipline, leadership, and a strong sense of community. As we explore the top boys’ boarding schools, you’ll discover institutions that go beyond academics, offering an environment where boys can excel in extracurricular activities, sports, and character-building experiences.

1. Welham Boys’ School

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Welham Boy’s School is considered one of the best boys boarding schools in India. The school is affiliated to the C.B.S.E. Board and encourages theme-based teaching.

2. Mayo College

Mayo College is a C.B.S.E. boys’ residential public school in Ajmer, Rajasthan, established in 1875. It offers a diverse range of skills in addition to its regular curriculum.

3. Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Bishop Cotton School is a top boys’ boarding school in India that prioritizes pastoral care. It aims to produce self-motivated, resilient, and happy young men who are prepared for any challenges. The school’s alumni provide mentoring and support to prepare boys for life beyond school.

4. Vidya Niketan (Birla Public School), Pilani

Ranked among the top ten residential boys’ schools for 11 consecutive years, Vidya Niketan is also third in India for “New Technologies Usage.” It is also widely recognised for fostering the development of a scientific temperament in children.

5. Scindia School Gwalior

This school is ranked as the second-best school in India. What distinguishes it is its style of offering learning based on experiences and exposure. It is an all-boys boarding school affiliated with CBSE.

2. Leading Girls’ Boarding Institutions

When it comes to girls’ education safety and empowerment are something a parent considers equally important along with curriculum and academics. Girls’ boarding institutions prioritize creating a safe and nice environment that empowers young girls. These schools focus on fostering confidence, self-expression, and leadership skills. Following is the list of best boarding schools for girls, that should be considered if you want a girl’s boarding school:

1. Welham Girls School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Welham Girls School has been ranked India’s best girls’ boarding school by Education World magazine for the academic year 2023-24. It is affiliated with Indian and international boards – The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE) and the Cambridge Assessment International Examination (CAIE).

2. Mody School, Sikar, Rajasthan

Mody School is a renowned residential school for girls, committed to women’s education. It is the first to receive NABET (National Accreditation Board for Education and Training) accreditation for excellence in education.

3.  Mayo College Girls Schools

Mayo College is committed to incorporating Indian culture into education, along with preparing students for current and future challenges. As a result, there is a special emphasis on Indian dance, drama, and values. The school has six boarding houses that cater to students from classes IV to XII.

4. Hopetown Girls’ School

Hopetown Girls School ranked 4th in the top girls boarding school category in India as per the EWISR 2022-23 survey. The school aims to ignite natural curiosity by making academics enjoyable.

 

3. Top Co-ed Schools for a Balanced Experience

Co-ed schools offer a balanced learning environment that encourages collaboration and mutual respect among students. In these institutions, students benefit from a diverse curriculum, a focus on teamwork, modern facilities, and celebrating equality and diversity. Here are some best boarding schools in the Co-ed category for your reference:

1.  Delhi Public School Yamuna Nagar, Haryana

Creating a list of the best Co-ed boarding schools without including the most loved DPS brand, will be unfair. What is most unique about DPS Yamuna Nagar has been selected for the ATL by NITI Aayog under the Govt. of India, along with its state-of-the-art modern infrastructure and world-class facilities. This program trains students to become successful innovators in the field of technology.

2. The Lawrence School, Sanawar, Himachal Pradesh

One of Asia’s first coeducation residential schools in Asia. The school is popular for providing students with the kind of environment that nurtures creativity and builds skills.

3. Pinegrove School Dharampur

Pinegrove School, a residential, co-educational institution affiliated with the CBSE, is an esteemed member of various well-established organizations. Among these are the Indian Public Schools’ Conference (IPSC), the Round Square, the National Progressive Schools’ Conference (NPSC), NCC, the American Field Service (AFS), and the International Award for Young People (IAYP). Additionally, the school holds the ISO 9001:2015 (BSI) certification, attesting to its adherence to stringent quality standards.

4. Kodaikanal International School

If you are searching for the finest co-ed boarding school options in South India, Kodaikanal International School is worth exploring. It is the first international school in India and the third in all of Asia. Along with IB offers the school also offers American curricular programs. The school places a strong emphasis on providing quality education and a homely environment for students.

 

 

Government Boarding Schools

Government boarding schools stand as pillars of quality education, often with a commitment to providing accessible and affordable learning opportunities. These institutions aim to foster a diverse student community and ensure a standardized education that meets national standards. Exploring these schools can unveil valuable opportunities for your child’s educational journey.

1. Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Chennithala, Alleppey Kerala

According to a survey conducted by Education World Magazine, the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Alappuzha has been named the best government boarding school in India. This co-educational residential institution provides separate accommodation for male and female students, while also charging minimal fees. Furthermore, the school conducts periodic medical checkups to ensure the well-being of its students.

2. Oak Grove School, Mussoorie

Oak Grove School, established by the Sindh, Punjab and Delhi (SPD) railway, is one of the best government boarding schools in India. It primarily caters to the children of railway personnel, but also has 25% of its seats reserved for students from diverse backgrounds.

3. Rashtriya Military School, Bengaluru

RMS Bengaluru is also known as the King George Indian Military College. The school reserves 70% of its seats for wards of servicemen and 10 seats separately for children of martyrs. While the school offers academic studies, it also prepares students for military services. Therefore, parents who are interested in enrolling their children should ensure that their kids are also medically fit to pass the required tests.

 

Private Boarding Schools

If you’re looking for schools that have something unique to offer, some specialized programs or those with a focus on niche subjects then you can explore private boarding schools. This category includes a diverse range of schools, providing parents with a wide array of choices to find the perfect fit for their child’s educational aspirations.

1. Sharda World School, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Sharda World School is the first Indian school to incorporate the five elements of life philosophy in the academic curriculum. They have also implemented the National Education Policy 2020 bringing transformation education system in India.

2. Delhi Public School R.K. Puram, New Delhi

DPS Delhi, affiliated with CBSE, the Indian Public-School Conference (IPSC), and the National Progressive School Conference (NPSC), stands as a prominent co-educational day and private boarding school. Consistently ranked among the top five boarding schools in India, it holds the top position in Delhi.  

 

Fees and Affordability

Understanding the financial aspect of education is crucial. This section delves into the fees and affordability of different boarding schools.

1. Satluj Public School, Ellenabad, Haryana

Satluj Public School is an affordable boarding school that provides quality education, with a safe school building and ample greenery. They offer sports, art, cultural activities, fully equipped laboratories, digital classrooms, and international exchange programs to foster holistic development in children.

2. M M Public School, Assandh, Haryana

Maharishi Meinhien Public School (MMPS) was established by the Shiva Education Society to remove illiteracy, uplift society, and empower people. MMPS is a top CBSE boarding school that offers affordable education without compromising on extra-curricular activities such as a library, sports, different clubs, computer education, and more.

3. Springfield World School, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh

Springfield World School is another option for an affordable, top-notch boarding school option. Alongside academics and extracurricular activities, the school stands out for its commitment to student needs, featuring on-campus organic farming.

 

Sports and Athletics

For students inclined towards sports and athletics, this category explores boarding schools that excel in providing a robust sports program. These schools not only focus on academic excellence but also prioritize physical fitness and character development through a variety of sports and athletic activities.

1. Motilal Nehru School of Sports, Sonipat

MNSS School is considered one of the top residential schools in India with an affiliation to the CBSE board for classes 10th and 12th. True to its name, the school aims to prepare children not just for academic success, but also for sports. With a wide range of indoor and outdoor sports activities, MNSS School helps students achieve overall well-being.

2. Sehwag International School, Jhajjar

SIS is another great option for enrolling students in a prestigious sports boarding school. The institution was established by Virender Sehwag with the objective of delivering a quality education to students whilst simultaneously promoting a healthy balance between academic and sporting pursuits. The school’s approach to teaching is geared towards equipping students with essential social, emotional, and intellectual skills.

3. National Sports School, Coimbatore

NSS Residential Sports School is a renowned residential school for sports enthusiasts. The institute boasts of excellent coaching facilities, and is led by its founder, Mr. Senthilkumar, who is himself a sportspreneur. The school offers a wide range of sports, including football, cricket, tennis, basketball, athletics, and Silamban, among others, making it an ideal place for students looking to pursue sports as a career.

 

With You….

And the list of boarding school goes on… As of now India has more than 5000 boarding Schools. Each of them has something unique to offer and deliver. Some of these schools have been around for over 100 years while others are just a few years old. But don’t worry, you’ll definitely find one that suits your specific requirements!

However, despite this if there is something more that you’re looking for, than please feel free to contact us at @boaridngschoolsofindia we are there with you to assist you in this journey. Team BSI wishes you the best.