CBSE vs State Boards: Which is Better?

Students who are choosing between CBSE and State Board must know the fundamental differences in learning methods, syllabus, grading system, entrance exams, and more. Knowing these differences will help students choose and have a fruitful learning experience.

The CBSE focuses more on conceptual understanding, whereas the State Board concentrates on memorising concepts. 

CBSE vs State Board: Highlights

The candidates can check out the overview of differences between CBSE vs State board through the table below.

CBSE vs State Board: Learning Methods

When comparing the learning methods of CBSE vs state board, the former is better. The learning methods of CBSE help students gain an in-depth understanding of topics. Moreover, it engages students in fun activities and allows them to apply critical thinking so that they understand the topics effectively.
On the contrary, the learning methods followed in State boards involve rote learning. In this way, students are not able to grasp the essence of the topics. Students need to understand the concepts rather than just memorizing them.

CBSE vs State Board: Syllabus

There is a major difference between the CBSE and State board syllabuses. CBSE concentrates more on subjects like Math, Science, English, etc. In contrast, the State Board focuses on local topics, regional language, and state-level affairs. 

Additionally, it is easier for students to understand the CBSE syllabus when compared to that of the State board. The CBSE syllabus also involves various practice-based questions that allow students to assess their knowledge of every topic. 

Read More: CBSE Syllabus

CBSE vs State Board: Grading System

Let us now compare CBSE's grading system to that of the State board. The State board grading system differs from one state to another. In comparison, CBSE has a specific grading system that all its affiliated schools must follow. The table below shows the CBSE grading system.

As mentioned earlier, the grading system in State Boards differs for every state. For example, the Kerala State Board uses the following grading system:

Therefore, the CBSE grading system is more uniform and consistent than that of the State board. 

Also Check: CBSE Grading System

CBSE vs State Board: Entrance Exam

After completing school, the students generally sit for entrance exams to pursue higher studies. Students also join coaching centres to qualify for entrance exams like JEE and NEET. Since these competitive exams are based on the CBSE syllabus, CBSE students stand a better chance of cracking these exams. 

Conversely, the State Board is less challenging than the CBSE board and concentrates more on regional matters. Therefore, students from the State Board find it challenging to clear the competitive exams and need to study harder.

CBSE vs State Board: International Scope

A number of students wish to pursue their higher education abroad. Students from both CBSE and State boards meet the eligibility criteria to apply for studying abroad. However, CBSE students get the upper hand in this case. The students attend classes in the English language from Nursery and study third languages in higher classes.

On the other hand, the State board focuses only on the English language and regional levels. Therefore, between CBSE vs State boards, CBSE has a broader international scope compared to the State boards.

CBSE vs State Board: Result

Under the CBSE board, the students can qualify for the exams only if they understand the concepts. At the same time, the State boards include direct questions from the reference books. Hence, it becomes challenging for CBSE students to score well in the exams. Students studying under the State boards can secure higher marks in the exams.

The CBSE results are declared sooner than the state board results, which gives CBSE students more time to prepare for college admissions and entrance exams.
The CBSE results are declared on the official website cbse.gov.in, whereas the State Board results are declared on the respective regional official websites, such as tnresults.nic.in.

Merits and Demerits of the CBSE Board

Check out some of the advantages of pursuing studies under the CBSE board.

• There is wide recognition and acceptance of the CBSE board around the world.
• Many important exams for higher studies are based on the CBSE syllabus due to its popularity and relevance.
• The CBSE board is student-friendly and ensures the holistic development of the student.

Following are a few disadvantages of the CBSE board.

• Students only get a few options with respect to art subjects. 
• CBSE has to update the syllabus constantly to remain competitive. 

Also Check: Benefits of CBSE Curriculum

Merits and Demerits of the State Board

If you are confused about whether to study under the State board, consider its advantages and disadvantages. Following are the benefits of studying in the State board.

• The tuition fees in schools affiliated with the State Board are affordable. So if you are looking for an economical study option, then it is ideal.
• Since the curriculum under the State Board is relatively easy, students can easily secure higher marks.

There are certain demerits of State boards as well. Here are some of them:

• Most State boards use outdated learning methods, and their syllabi are rarely updated.
• State board schools that include state-mandated curriculums lack quality teachers.
• Generally, schools under the State boards have a huge number of students in a class. It hampers the learning and growth of the students.

CBSE vs State Board: Which is Better for Future?

There is no deciding factor in deciding which is better - CBSE or State Board. However, it entirely depends on the students' career goals and priorities. CBSE is a better choice for students interested in pursuing Engineering or Medical courses.

The CBSE board examination and results come out earlier than the state board, which means the college admissions process can be started earlier than for state board students. The CBSE board syllabus will help the students crack the Engineering and Medical entrance exams such as JEE Main, JEE Advanced, NEET, etc., easier than that of a state board student.

At the same time, it is easier to score high marks in the state board science group syllabus, which will ultimately make the process of getting into a Tier 1 Engineering or Medical college easier. Both boards have merits and demerits, so the students must consider all the factors to make the right choice.