In India, there are two popular boards of study ( ICSE & IGCSE) that parents choose for their child’s better future. Earlier, people were not aware of the difference between the multiple education boards available in India to pursue education. They simply choose any one as per their convenience. But choosing the right board of education is like choosing a fuel that will propel your child’s future. So always ensure about the syllabus, evaluation method, and network of the board you choose. When everything matches your child’s future goal, then opt for it. Primary and secondary education cover more than half of a child's education. And this only plays a major role in shaping their future goals. ICSE VS IGSE, both have their way of teaching methods and curricula, which can be chosen as per students’ future aspirations.
Key Differences Between ICSE VS IGCSE
ICSE VS IGCSE: Network And Affiliation
ICSE is one of the most chosen boards of education in India. It's present basically in urban areas where the demand for English-medium schools is higher. Schools affiliated with ICSE are most often known for their high academic standard, which focuses especially on the English language. Whereas IGSE is affiliated with Cambridge International and provides a global perspective and access to world-class education. This is a well-regarded education board, especially designed to facilitate and upgrade students' aspirations to study abroad.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Syllabus
The key difference between ICSE VS IGCSE lies in their approach and focus. The ICSE syllabus is comprehensive and detail-oriented, especially focusing on the English subject, which helps students while studying abroad. Whereas the IGCSE syllabus is more practical and application-based, designed to enhance students’ critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving ability. Also, students studying in the IGCSE board can choose from a wide range of subjects based on their interests and future goals.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Examination & Affiliation
ICSE is a national curriculum governed by CISCE, primarily used in Indian schools. Its examinations, especially 10th and 12th, are known for their comprehensiveness and difficulty. The questions asked in the exam need a detailed answer to evaluate the student's depth of knowledge in the particular subjects. Whereas IGCSE offers a global perspective with flexible subject choice. The questions asked in the exams are especially designed to provide a structured and precise answer to check students' ability to apply the skills and concepts studied in the class.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Medium of Instruction
Both ICSE and IGCSE use English as their medium of instruction. ICSE focuses on an in-depth study of the subject with a national context. It emphasizes English more, which builds confidence in students and works on their personality growth. Whereas IGCSE offers a bilingual education option, which allows students to study certain subjects in their native language alongside English. However, the core IGCSE curriculum, teaching medium, and examinations are conducted in English.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Difficulty
ICSE is considered to be more difficult due to its focus on detailed knowledge, rote learning, and a more comprehensive syllabus. It focuses more on the in-depth understanding of the subjects and provides deep knowledge about every concept. Whereas IGCSE focuses on analytical and application-based learning, which offers a broader range of subjects and flexibility in choosing them. This helps students choose their desired subjects. But sometimes it leads to a heavier workload for those who choose more subjects.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Preparation for Competitive Exams
ICSE is generally considered better than IGCSE for those preparing for competitive exams like IIT JEE and NEET, as it focuses more on the Indian curriculum and subjects that align with the competitive exams like IIT JEE and NEET, while, IGCSE prefer the International curriculum, which is more beneficial for students who wish to go abroad to pursue higher education. It emphasizes more on analytical and problem-solving skills, which enhances logical thinking in students.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Fees
ICSE fees are competitive and lower than the IGCSE board. The average fees of the ICSE-affiliated schools range from 80,000 to 1,50,000 per annum. While IGCSE school fees range from 1,50,000 to 5,00,000 for the two-year course. Which is higher than the ICSE board of education. ICSE schools are more readily available, especially in urban cities, while IGCSE schools are very less in number, especially in non-metro cities. But its global recognition makes it a good option to study anywhere across the world.
ICSE VS IGCSE: Scholarships
ICSE is a domestic board primarily focused on India. It has a large number of schools in India, including metro and non-metro cities. They often offer merit-based scholarships offered by a specific ICSE school and organizations. Whereas IGCSE is a globally recognized board. They provide scholarships offered by international organizations, universities, or specific schools. The IGCSE boards’ flexibility of curriculum allows customization of subjects, which influences scholarship eligibility.
Advantages and Disadvantages of ICSE
The ICSE curriculum emphasizes an in-depth understanding of subjects, providing deep knowledge and ensuring a well-rounded foundation that can be beneficial in diverse career paths. Also, it covers various subjects (arts, science, humanities) to help students explore different areas of interest. Though it's known for its well-rounded and in-depth curriculum, sometimes it leads to a higher workload, which may cause stress and affect students' work-life balance. Also, its greater difficulty level may be challenging sometimes.
Advantages and Disadvantages of IGCSE
IGCSE is a widely recognized board of education that is accepted by universities and colleges worldwide. Its curriculum emphasizes the practical and real-world application of knowledge. It helps encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which helps students overcome any competitive exams. But, sometimes shifting from the traditional education system to IGCSE may be challenging for students who are not accustomed to emphasizing practical skills. Also, their curriculum is not aligned with the local context and requirements, which may impact students who search for a certain career path within India.
Conclusion
ICSE and IGCSE both are good boards of education and provide a structured education for the students' future growth. Both boards have their pros and cons. But evaluating them as per students' needs will help you choose the best one. ICSE is a national board of education, administered by CISCE, which focuses on students' overall growth by emphasizing more on English language. IGCSE is an international equivalent of the UK’s GCSE, administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education, known for its practical and application-based learning, which enhances analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. ICSE VS IGCSE, which is better? It’s quite tough to answer, but we have tried our best to help you understand the difference between the boards, which will help you choose the best one for your child.
