In our early childhood, we have always debated the topic of ICSE vs CBSE board. Little did we know about the importance of both boards at different levels. Students from both boards try their best to state their boards as the best. Being a parent, you need to make a sound decision regarding the board selection for your child. ICSE vs CBSE has been a never-ending debate for a long. In general, students who are willing to make a career in the maths and science domain should prefer the CBSE board over the ICSE board.
For holistic growth and development, the students should prefer the ICSE board. This blog will give you a detailed comparison of the ICSE vs CBSE board at different parameters. We will talk about the overview, comparison, syllabus, grading system, and more. This information will help the students choose the perfect aligned board for themselves. At the last, we also have the proper answer to the question that you have been looking for – ICSE vs CBSE; Which is better?
Topics covered
ICSE vs CBSE Board Overview
The full form of CBSE is Central Board of Secondary Education. It is a national board run by the government of India since 1962. It administers education for various public and private schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas. CBSE conducts final exams for Class 10 and Class 12 in March and focuses on creating an all-around development of students.
The ICSE stands for Indian Certificate of Secondary Education. It is managed by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations and was established in 1958. It is known for its extensive and detailed curriculum that balances languages, arts, and sciences, and strongly emphasizes English language and literature.
Also, know about the Top 10 CBSE Schools in India.
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ICSE vs CBSE vs State Board
In our childhood, we most probably would have been a part of debates among the students regarding ICSE vs CBSE vs state board. The students from these courses would go to any extent of debate for defending their job. But now, if you are in 9th standard, you need to understand the basic differences among these boards.
The table below shows a detailed comparison between these ICSE, CBSE, and state boards on several parameters. You must go through these differences in detail before choosing a board.
| Parameter | CBSE | ICSE | State Boards |
| Exams and Scoring | – CBSE exams include both objective and subjective questions. | – ICSE exams are challenging due to the vast syllabus. | – State board exams focus on practical aspects. |
| Medium of Instruction | – CBSE allows both English and Hindi. | – ICSE follows English as the basic language (no Hindi support). | – Varies by state, often regional languages. |
| Course Content | – CBSE emphasizes science and math, with a focus on application. – Suitable for JEE and NEET preparation. | – ICSE balances language, arts, and science. – Analytical skills and practical knowledge emphasized. | – State boards vary in content and flexibility. |
| Overall Approach | – CBSE aims for all-round development and efficient exam preparation. | – ICSE builds a strong foundation for advanced studies. | – State boards emphasize practical implications. |
Remember that each board has its strengths and weaknesses, so parents should consider their child’s interests, strengths, and future goals when choosing the right board.
Suggested Reading: Subject Combination for 10th
ICSE vs CBSE Board on Different Parameters
In the previous section, you just saw the basic differences between the ICSE, CBSE, and state boards. Now, we will focus on some of the specific parameters like syllabus, difficulties, instructions, grading system, and more.
ICSE vs CBSE Board Syllabus
There are several differences between the syllabus of the ICSE and CBSE board curriculum. You must take note of certain pointers related to the syllabus. The basic differences between an ICSE and a CBSE board syllabus are outlined below.
CBSE Syllabus
- CBSE follows a curriculum set by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
- It emphasizes science and mathematics but also includes project work, assignments, and sports.
- The syllabus is uniform across the country, making it easier for students to switch schools.
- CBSE aims to provide a balanced education, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
ICSE Syllabus
- ICSE syllabus is comprehensive and detailed.
- It covers language, arts, and science equally, emphasizing a strong foundation in English language and literature.
- ICSE exams are challenging due to the vast syllabus, testing both objective and subjective aspects.
- The syllabus aims to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and practical knowledge.
You can also learn about the way to Crack Your Board Exams here!
ICSE vs CBSE Exams and Competitions
CBSE exams have both objective and subjective questions, and students might need extra study materials. They’re graded with alphabets, and CBSE helps students get ready for exams like JEE and NEET. ICSE exams are tough because they cover a lot of topics and test everything, from objective facts to deeper understanding. ICSE wants students to have a solid base in all subjects and to think critically.
Both CBSE and ICSE boards encourage students to join competitions. CBSE students can show off their skills in subjects like science, math, and literature through debates and quizzes. ICSE students often do well in English competitions and enjoy events like debates and creative writing.
ICSE vs CBSE Grading System
Understanding the grading system is quite important for the students. Both boards have different grading systems to be followed. CBSE uses alphabets for grading, while ICSE provides numeric scores. The table below shows the grading system for both the boards.
| Board | Grading System |
| CBSE Board | Uses an alphabetical grading system (A1, A2, B1, B2, etc.). Each grade corresponds to a specific range of marks. Examples: A1 (91-100), A2 (81-90), B1 (71-80), and so on. |
| ICSE Board | Employs a numeric scoring system. Students receive marks out of 100 for each subject. No letter grades; actual scores are recorded. |
CBSE vs ICSE Board – Which is Better?
ICSE board can be better for you if you are focusing on holistic growth. This board gives space to the students for overall development. It is managed by CISCE (Council of Indian School Certificate Examination). Its syllabus covers many subjects like languages, arts, and science, making it quite detailed. ICSE holds exams for both 10th and 12th classes, known for being challenging due to their depth.
The CBSE board should be better for you if you are targeting the JEE, NEET, or other maths and science subject exams. The CBSE follows the national curriculum set by NCERT. It offers additional subjects and conducts exams for both secondary and senior secondary levels. CBSE focuses on building a strong base and getting students ready for exams like IIT JEE and NEET.
So, it totally depends on you which board to choose between the ICSE and CBSE boards. Make sure you research the best one for yourself.
Still have more questions? Get in touch with our industry experts at Career Counselling in Delhi and get your queries resolved in minutes!
That’s All for Today!
Deciding between the ICSE vs CBSE boards depends on what your child needs and plans for the future. ICSE offers a detailed and broad curriculum, covering languages, arts, and sciences, which is great for students who want a comprehensive education with a strong focus on English and analytical skills. CBSE, on the other hand, sticks to a national curriculum designed to prepare students for competitive exams in science and math. The CBSE board is perfect for those aiming at careers in these fields.
Both boards are excellent but serve different purposes. As a parent, it’s important to consider your child’s interests, strengths, and career ambitions carefully before choosing. The best choice will support your child’s long-term educational and professional goals, helping them build a solid foundation for future success.
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FAQs
Both CBSE and ICSE have their merits. CBSE focuses on structured learning and competitive exam preparation, while ICSE offers a broader range of subjects and in-depth learning. You should research properly before making a final choice.
Yes! ICSE can be a good foundation for IIT preparation. While CBSE is more commonly associated with IIT preparation, ICSE also provides a strong base in subjects like mathematics and science, which are essential for engineering entrance exams.
When it comes to determining the toughest board in India, the ICSE board takes the lead. Its comprehensive, detailed, and practically oriented syllabus, along with a wide range of subject options, contributes to its reputation as the toughest board.
Both the CBSE and ICSE boards have their merits, and the choice depends on individual preferences and goals. While CBSE focuses on structured learning and competitive exam preparation, ICSE offers a broader range of subjects and in-depth learning.
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