Once considered a privilege reserved for the elite, international schooling in India has rapidly evolved into a nationwide trend. The country now hosts the second-largest number of international schools globally, not just in name but in genuine affiliation with renowned global education boards. This transformation is fueled by an increasing number of Indian families, expatriates, and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) opting for international curricula.

Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi are witnessing significant investments from international school chains as parents recognize the value of global curriculums in future-proofing their children’s careers," said Abishek Pandy, ISC Research field research manager for India. With rising incomes, families now see international education as a bridge to Western universities and global career opportunities.

Expansion Beyond Metro Cities

One of the most striking developments is the geographical spread of international schools. No longer confined to metro cities, these institutions are making inroads into smaller towns and tier 2 and 3 cities. Schools affiliated with Cambridge and the International Baccalaureate (IB) are growing at an unprecedented pace.

"Every year, around 100 new Cambridge schools and 30 to 40 IB schools are emerging in India," said Mahesh Srivastava, former regional director (South Asia) for Cambridge Assessment International Education. "This growth is being driven by the aspirations of India’s middle class, which is at an all-time high. The demand is no longer restricted to urban centers but is now expanding to places like Hatkanagale in Sangli, Tholahunse in Davangere, and Sonaghati in Betul."

The Appeal of a Different Learning Approach

Beyond the global affiliation, what truly attracts parents is the distinct approach to learning that international schools offer. According to Farzana Dohadwalla, former IB representative for South Asia, one of the biggest draws is personalized learning with smaller class sizes.

"Most international schools have only 25-30 students per class, which allows for more individualized attention. The teaching methods are also vastly different. Unlike traditional didactic approaches where teachers simply lecture students, international schools focus on inquiry-based learning and interactive teaching methods," she explained.

Kunal Dalal, managing director of JBCN Education, emphasized the curriculum's emphasis on interdisciplinary thinking and real-world application. "International education fosters essential skills for future career aspirations. The experiential learning methods, global perspectives, and learner-led initiatives help students become proactive problem-solvers and changemakers," he added.

A Changing Landscape of Educators and Students

Not only has the curriculum evolved, but the structure, culture, and people within international schools have also changed. Initially, these institutions were led by foreign educators, but today, the majority of international schools in India are headed by Indian educators trained in global teaching methodologies while remaining attuned to local sensibilities.

Interestingly, while international schools were once seen as a stepping stone to foreign universities, a growing number of students are now choosing to stay in India for higher education. "Currently, around 60%-70% of students who graduate from international schools opt for colleges within India," noted Dohadwalla. This shift indicates that international schooling is no longer an external influence but an integral part of India’s educational landscape.

The Business of International Education

Despite the genuine educational value, perception plays a major role in the rise of international schools. According to educationist Francis Joseph, branding and strategic positioning have made starting an international school a lucrative business. "The process of international board affiliation is smoother, and the aspirational value attached to these schools justifies the higher tuition fees," he said. "For instance, a parent might hesitate to pay four lakhs per year for a CBSE school, but if the school carries an ‘international’ tag, the same fee is met with little resistance."

Joseph also pointed out that the expansion of international schools aligns with real estate and business models. "In many cases, international schools are not just educational institutions but also strategic real estate investments. Their appeal extends beyond academics to status and prestige," he explained.

Moreover, the business model has evolved to cater to India’s diverse economic strata. Just as consumer brands tailor their products for different market segments, international schools now offer multiple curricula under one roof. "Dual boards were once a rarity, but now they have become a strategic necessity. A national curriculum often runs alongside an international one on the same campus, appealing to families with varying budgets and aspirations," Joseph added.