Once an elite privilege, international education in India is now a mainstream choice. The country now hosts the second-highest number of international schools globally, with a surge in institutions affiliated with IB and IGCSE. Over the last five years, India’s international schools have grown by 10%, with Maharashtra leading at 210 schools, followed by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.

Parents are increasingly drawn to global curricula for career prospects, exposure, and personalised learning. “Middle-class aspirations have soared, and rising incomes enable families to invest in education that aligns with Western universities,” said Abishek Pandy of ISC Research. Beyond metro cities, international schools are emerging in smaller towns like Hatkanagale and Tholahunse. Cambridge adds 100 schools yearly, while IB sees 30-40 new schools annually.

The appeal lies in smaller class sizes, innovative teaching, and experiential learning. “Inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary approaches develop problem-solving skills,” noted Kunal Dalal of JBCN Education. Interestingly, 60-70% of students from these schools now opt for higher education in India.

Educationist Francis Joseph highlights the business appeal: “A CBSE school at ₹4 lakh a year? Unlikely. Add an ‘international’ label, and parents won’t blink.” Schools are adapting, offering dual curricula to cater to varied economic segments. International schooling, once a niche, is now an embedded part of India’s evolving education landscape.