ICSE vs CBSE Board - Which is Better?

With the syllabus differences between the two boards, the CBSE-ICSE comparison becomes more interesting because CBSE concentrates on theoretical principles, while the ICSE compares practical skills. The ICSE syllabus is more challenging than the CBSE syllabus because it emphasises giving students in-depth and practical information. Students' analytical skills are also developed as part of the ICSE curriculum. 

Every parent's most significant problem is commencing their child's academic career. The education boards and schools you choose can make a huge difference in your child's overall development.

Every child is unique, and their tastes, passions, and pursuits don't remain similar. This article aims to resolve the dilemma to a certain degree. Also, this article does not advocate any verdict on which is better. It is the responsibility of the concerned parent or the students to comprehend and then make a decision. In this article, you can find the pros and cons of CBSE and ICSE, which can further help clear the ai

Difference Between CBSE and ICSE  

They differ in the following ways:

Method of study

CBSE and ICSE follow a particular prescribed teaching mode, continuously evolving over the past ten years. The crux is that students can feel and learn rather than rely on their memory to write examinations.

ICSE has an outstanding teaching model involving a penetrative study of subjects and has carved a niche in teaching English literature and language. CBSE focuses on academic math and science and has prescribed textbooks to refer to, study and memorise.

The CBSE curriculum focuses more on theoretical concepts, whereas the ICSE curriculum focuses on practical knowledge. 

Availability of Tutors and Schools

It varies demographically. In Delhi, it is hard to find ICSE teachers, owing to the low number of schools available. Whereas in Mumbai, the number of ICSE schools is higher compared to the Maharashtra SSC Board. ICSE is also prevalent in large numbers in Bangalore and Kolkata.

But it is a common belief that it is easier to find a CBSE school in any state. This is very strong for students who have parents who will be on a transfer frequently. 

Linguistic Study

CBSE has the upper hand in having both English and Hindi as teaching mediums, and ICSE does not recommend or promote Hindi.

Recognition by the Indian Government

CBSE is recognised by the Indian Government, whereas ICSE is not. The certificates given by both boards are globally valid, but CBSE ranks better than ICSE in India. Many foreign education systems approve CISCE as equivalent to senior examination or high school.

Type of Candidature

CBSE allows regulars (studying in CBSE schools) and private candidates from non-affiliated schools to write exams. However, a candidate who has not been studying in an ICSE affiliated school cannot take up exams in ICSE.

Mode of Evaluation

The key difference between CBSE and ICSE is the mode of evaluation. In ICSE, internal assessments are extremely important, and overall scores are linked with practical tests. ICSE also emphasises more on lab work, whereas CBSE evaluates it based on theory. CBSE uses an alphabetical grading system, but the ICSE uses a score to grade its students.

Syllabus

The following are the key differences in the syllabuses of CBSE and ICSE:

ICSE

The syllabus that the ICSE Board follows lays more emphasis on studying the English language. Students who want to pursue careers in arts or linguistics will find the curriculum followed under ICSE more helpful. As per the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education Board, the certification is widely recognised worldwide, specifically by foreign schools and universities. It is easy for these students to attempt exams like IELTS or TOEFL.

CBSE

The CBSE has also announced a 30% reduction in its curriculum this year. This is a good idea for the child's education because it relieves the child's stress and allows them to focus on other extracurricular activities and competitive examinations. The syllabus is more tuned to attempt competitive exams like the Joint Entrance Examination (IIT-JEE), the All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE), and the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT). Secondary subjects are not mandatory in CBSE, enabling students to focus more on key subjects. 

Which is Better, CBSE or ICSE?

Ultimately, it is the concerned person's decision. The parent or student needs to have a vision of the future while choosing between the two. CBSE seems to have an edge in India with its application-oriented learning and syllabus, instilling more confidence while taking up competitive exams for further studies. On the other hand, ICSE monopolises its emphasis on imparting the English language and flexibility in the choice of subjects.

Cons of CBSE and ICSE

Below are the cons/disadvantages of CBSE and ICSE, which will give you clarity and wise decision:

Cons of CBSE

• CBSE does not give much importance to the English language compared to ICSE.

• More theoretical than practical.

Cons of ICSE

• The number of subjects is more.

• Because of a strict evaluation in ISC exams, it becomes difficult to score high.

General Layout of the Boards

In India, the commonly prevalent boards at the national level are – CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education). Apart from these two boards, most of the states have their state boards.

CBSE 

CBSE or the Central Board of Secondary Education is a board that comes under the Union Government of India. CBSE's affiliated schools include all the Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, and private schools. CBSE class 10th and class 12th final exams usually fall every year in February/March, but there will be a delay in the examination due to the ongoing pandemic.

ICSE

Tracing its origin in 1952, an All India Certificate Examinations Conference was held. The main agenda discussed was to replace the overseas Cambridge School Certificate Examination with an All India Examination. CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations), a national level private board of Education in India, established in 1958, is conducting the class 10th and class 12th examinations.

The education system has three segments, namely – Primary, Secondary and Senior Secondary Levels. Each of these levels plays a pivotal role in shaping a child's overall development.  Both CBSE and ICSE attempt to complete physical and mental well-being, but they have their differences.

Read More: CISCE