Top 10 Best Boarding Schools in India
Choosing the right school for your child in India is a momentous decision, and when it comes to boarding schools, the stakes feel even higher. This ... read more...comprehensive guide is designed to help you make informed choices. We'll delve into the best boarding schools in India, covering academics, activities, and diverse cultures, to find the right fit for your child.
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Founded in 1935, The Doon School has garnered a legendary reputation for its academic excellence, holistic education, and distinguished alumni. This school deserved to be ranked first among the best boarding schools in India. Unlike many schools in cities, here, boys live and study in the midst of nature, breathing in clean Himalayan air with a vast seventy-acre campus surrounded by lush greenery.
Envisioned by Satish Ranjan Das, a lawyer from Calcutta, this all-boys boarding school was modeled after the British public school system yet infused with a distinctly Indian spirit. The Doon School offers a choice between the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the Indian School Certificate (ISC) in the S Form (Class XI). They boast a commendable track record of outstanding examination results and facilitate top-notch university placements domestically and internationally.
The vibrant co-curricular landscape offers an array of opportunities for students to excel in sports, arts, music, drama, and community service. Whether it's on the sports field, the stage, or through social initiatives, students are encouraged to discover their passions and hone their skills.The boarding education here isn't just about accommodation—it forms the core of the school’s distinctive approach. Holding houses like Foot and Martyn, accommodating around 40 boys each, eases newcomers into school life, while the five main houses—Jaipur, Oberoi, Tata, Kashmir, and Hyderabad—home to 80–90 boys each prioritize holistic development.
The Doon School operates on a seven-day boarding schedule, integrating a comprehensive life skills program and pastoral care system, ensuring daily support and guidance. With an emphasis on overall well-being, The Doon School equips pupils with skills for resilience and foresight, preparing them for life beyond the school gates.Age range: 12 to 18
Curriculum: IB, ISC
Address: The Doon School, Mall Road, Dehradun, India 248003
Phone: +91 135 252 6406
Email: admissions@doonschool.com
Website: https://www.doonschool.com/ -
Established in 1847, The Lawrence School Sanawar stands at an elevation of 1750 meters across 139 acres of lush forests with pine, deodar, and other coniferous trees. Sir Henry Lawrence and his wife Honoria envisioned this remarkable institution, welcoming boys and girls aged 9 to 16 without regard to social status, religion, or nationality.
The academic year comprises two terms: the Spring Term from February to May and the Founder’s Term from July to December. The curriculum aligns with CBSE standards from Class V to XII. With around 750 students, primarily boarders, and an average class size of 22 to 28 students, The Lawrence School Sanawar maintains a conducive learning environment.
Birdwood, the main academic building, boasts 30 spacious classrooms with cedar-wood floors and captivating views of Kasauli Ridge.The Boys Department, which comprises four houses: Himalaya, Nilagiri, Siwalik, and Vindhya, focuses on pastoral care and academic support. Each house is overseen by housemasters, matrons, tutors, and a prefectorial body elected from UVI.
The Girls' Department emphasizes equality and offers housing for girls from grades 7 to 8, with a new dormitory under construction. The girls' playground, known as Peacestead, has recently undergone a facelift, offering a modern space for various activities.
Embracing a cosmopolitan spirit, The Lawrence School Sanawar prepares its students for success in an interconnected world. The school promotes cultural exchange through international partnerships and programs, equipping its graduates with the necessary skills and understanding to navigate a diverse and dynamic world.
Age range: 9 to 16
Curriculum: CBSE
Address: The Lawrence School, Sanawar, Distt. Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India 173202
Phone: +91 1792 261208
Email: office@sanawar.edu.in
Website: https://www.sanawar.edu.in/ -
Nestled in Dehradun, Ecole Globale International Girls School is one of the best boarding schools in India, designed for girl-only education. Since opening its doors in April 2012 under the Asian Educational Charitable Trust, it has been nurturing and inspiring girls to become confident, well-rounded leaders prepared to make their mark on the world.
In its very first year, the school secured a noteworthy 6th position in India's 'Peer and Parent Surveys' by Education World Magazine. The sprawling 40-acre campus, embraced by the serene Shivalik Range, boasts a well-equipped academic block, five spacious boarding houses, excellent sports facilities, a medical center, and a well-organized dining hall—all meticulously planned.
As a zero-emissions campus, Ecole Globale International Girls School prioritizes cleanliness and top-notch maintenance, creating an ideal learning environment. Offering a choice between the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Cambridge International Education (CIE), the school accommodates students with diverse educational backgrounds and future academic aspirations, fostering a rich cultural and geographical diversity.
The place where girls stay at Ecole Globale is like a second home, under the supervision of the Dean of Pastoral Care. Housemothers, mentors, guardians, ayahs, and lady guards, all highly trained, cater to the girls' needs round-the-clock, ensuring a warm, inviting, and comforting living space.
Everything at Ecole Globale is designed to help girls grow, learn, and feel happy, making sure they have a great time while they study and become their best selves. So, if you're looking for a great educational environment for your daughter, Ecole Globale International Girls School might be a good choice that you should consider carefully.
Age range: 9 to 18
Curriculum: CBSE, CIE
Address: Village Horawalla, Chakrata Road, Near Sahaspur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248197, India
Phone: +91 955 729 1888
Email: ecoleglobale@gmail.com
Website: https://www.ecoleglobale.com/ -
Picture this: a green oasis in the heart of bustling Delhi, where sunlight filters through towering trees and echoes of laughter fill the air. This is The Mann School, one of the best boarding schools in India, where young minds blossom and dreams take flight. Since 1989, the school has been a place where students don't just learn; they thrive. Here, education is a journey, not a destination.
The curriculum follows the CBSE syllabus from I to XII, providing science, commerce, and humanities streams. Well-equipped laboratories and personalized attention cater to practical learning and support for students with diverse academic needs. The school also offers coaching for competitive exams like IIT, PMT, and NDA, ensuring comprehensive academic support.
The Mann School offers a picturesque setting for education, focusing not only on textbook learning but also on connecting students with nature. The school's modern teaching techniques aim at knowledge accumulation, making the learning experience more enriching.
Residential blocks for boys and girls ensure a nurturing environment, with dedicated spaces for studying and recreation. Nutritious meals are complemented by teacher-guided sessions on table manners, fostering student bonding and emotional support. The Mann School aims not just for academic success but also for personal growth in a warm and caring environment.
Age range: 3 to 18
Curriculum: CBSE
Address: Holambi Khurd, Delhi, 110082, India
Phone: +91 1169 652323
Email: info@themannschool.com
Website: https://www.themannschool.com/ -
Established in 1999, Jain International Residential School (JIRS) emerged through the vision of Dr. Chenraj Roychand under the Jain Group. Their diverse student body hails from varied corners of the globe, like Germany, the UAE, Thailand, Africa, and Nepal.
As a co-educational boarding institution, they have over 750 students spanning from Class IV to XII, offering CBSE, IGCSE, and IB curricula. Their comprehensive framework blends subjects from the sciences to the humanities, nurturing holistic student development.
Offering the IGCSE curriculum by Cambridge International Examination (CIE) since 2004, they immerse students in a global education paradigm. The school is also renowned as a top IBDP school, imparting the Diploma Program since May 2011, nurturing students into intellectually agile, emotionally balanced, and ethically strong individuals.
Jain International Residential School boasts a state-of-the-art infrastructure, comprising a sprawling library, cutting-edge computer labs, well-equipped science labs, smart classrooms, a sports academy, and more. Their extensive library covers 25,000 square feet and has various old valuable books, learning resources, research materials, and digital provisions.
With a warm embrace, Jain International Residential School welcomes over 700 boarding students from Grades 5–12 worldwide. They prioritize comprehensive care services and diverse activities, fostering academic excellence and overall well-being.Age range: 9 to 18
Curriculum: CBSE, CIE, IBDP
Address: 45th km, NH-209, Jakkasandra Post, Bengaluru - Kanakapura Main Road, Ramanagara District, Karnataka, India 562112
Phone: +91 78998 88099
Email: admission@jirs.ac.in
Website: https://www.jirs.ac.in/ -
In the heart of Ajmer, Rajasthan, stands Mayo College, a boys-only boarding school founded in 1875 by Richard Bourke, the 6th Earl of Mayo and former Viceroy of India. While English is the main language of instruction, they also value Hindi equally. With a student-teacher ratio of 10:1, each student gets personalized attention.
Mayo College offers a rigorous and diverse curriculum, preparing boys for success in top universities around the world. From science and mathematics to the humanities and the arts, students are challenged to think critically, expand their knowledge, and discover their passions. Learning at Mayo College is an exciting journey that stretches young minds to their full potential.
Mayo College believes in a well-rounded education. Alongside studies, they emphasize technical skills, sports, the arts, music, and theatre. The teachers are a big deal too—they're experienced and always learning, attending workshops and seminars in India and abroad.
Nestled within the campus are cozy boarding houses, each with its own character and traditions. These houses become boys' second homes, where they find camaraderie, support, and a sense of belonging. Dedicated housemasters act as mentors and guides, ensuring that every boy feels safe, cared for, and empowered to thrive.
Mayo College is a blend of tradition and modern learning. It's a place where boys grow not just academically but also in other aspects of life, preparing them for what lies ahead.
Age range: 9 to 18
Curriculum: CBSE
Address: Srinagar Road, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001, India
Phone: +91 145 266 1154
Email: principal@mayocollege.com
Website: https://mayocollege.com/ -
Rishi Valley School, part of the Krishnamurti Foundation in India, sits snugly in a serene valley in rural Andhra Pradesh, about 15km away from Madanapalle and roughly 140km northeast of Bangalore.
This place is home to around 360 boarding students from various Indian states, mentored by a team of sixty highly skilled teachers. New students are selected annually based on character, talent, academics, and family background. The Junior and Middle School, accommodating around 190 students from classes 4 to 8, offers a flexible curriculum free from examination pressures, fostering innovative teaching.
Moving up, the senior school houses around 160 students from classes 9 to 12, following the ICSE and ISC examination boards. Here, the focus is on diving deeper into the academic syllabus while nurturing a wider understanding of the world. Rishi Valley School aims to develop not just the brain but also the heart, soul, and moral compass of their students.
Rishi Valley School believes in a holistic approach to education. They have a special General Studies Program for Class 11 that exposes students to the nearby rural communities, giving them a glimpse into the lives of farmers and laborers. Biology students have their own projects, diving into the health, living conditions, and economic status of rural folks.So, what's about the boarding? They're not just hostels; they call them houses. There are about 20 of them, each housing 12 to 22 students. The younger ones live together, while the older students have separate houses, creating a tight-knit, home-like environment.
Age range: 9 to 18
Curriculum: CISCE
Address: Rishi Valley, Madanapalle Annamayya District, Andhra Pradesh 517352, India
Phone: +91 949 354 7322
Email: OFFICE@RISHIVALLEY.ORG
Website: https://www.rishivalley.org/ -
Imagine a place where girls blossom like vibrant flowers, nurtured by the gentle sun and cool breeze of the Himalayas. This is Welham Girls' School, a prestigious boarding school nestled amidst the stunning beauty of Dehradun, India. Founded in 1957 by the visionary Hersilia Susie Oliphant, the school has nurtured generations of confident, independent women who leave their mark on the world.
This Welham Girls' School stands proud of its affiliation with two boards: the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE), New Delhi, and the Cambridge Assessment International Examination (CAIE), providing students with a diverse academic platform.
Classes kick off in March, and the big exams happen in February of the following year. English is the main language used for teaching, but they also give a lot of importance to Hindi. In middle school, girls get to choose another language—options include Sanskrit, French, Spanish, or German.
Life at Wellham is a tapestry woven with enriching experiences. Whether it's participating in lively debates, showcasing talents in the annual school play, or trekking through the Himalayas, every day promises a new adventure. The school encourages girls to step outside their comfort zones, discover their passions, and develop into leaders of tomorrow.
So, if you're looking for a school that will nurture your child's intellect, ignite their passions, and help the girls become the best version of themselves, Welham Girls' School awaits with open arms.
Age range: 10 to 18
Curriculum: CISCE, CAIE
Address: No. 19, Municipal Road, Dalanwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001, India
Phone: +91 135 667 0100
Email: wgs_admissions@welhamgirls.comWebsite: https://www.welhamgirls.com/
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Bishop Cotton School in Shimla is not just a school; it's a place where boys from Class 4 onwards come to learn, grow, and create a legacy for the future. Nestled in the scenic Shimla Hills, this legendary school has been shaping young minds for a whopping 165 years.
What makes Bishop Cotton School stand out is its blend of rich history and a forward-thinking global perspective. With accreditation from ICSE/IGCSE Cambridge International, the school has its sights set on a bright 21st-century future. Despite its age, Bishop Cotton is a modern marvel, providing top-notch education and facilities.
The campus is huge—35 acres to be exact—and it’s super safe and comfy. The boys who study here, known as Cottonians, are from all around the world. They get to learn a lot of different things and play a ton of sports and games. The school isn’t just about studying hard; it's about becoming good leaders, being tough, and working together.
For boarding students, Bishop Cotton School becomes a second home. Comfortable and well-equipped hostels provide a safe and supportive environment where students can relax, study, and build lasting friendships. Currently, the school is working on replacing bunk beds, giving most boys their own single bed. Each boy also has a personal locker. The dorms are equipped with their own toilet and shower area, a space for linens, and a common room furnished with a TV.
Age range: 9 to 18
Curriculum: CISCE
Address: Shimla Bypass, Near Khalini, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171002, India
Phone: +91 177 262 0880
Email: secy@bishopcotton.com
Website: https://bishopcottonshimla.com/ -
Established in 1869, Sherwood College is a top-notch boarding school nestled in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India. Boasting a lush 45-acre campus perched 6,837 feet above sea level, it offers stunning views of the Shivalik Hills.
Sherwood College provides a comprehensive curriculum spanning from Grade III to Grade XII, catering to both boys and girls. The school holds affiliations with the CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations) and IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) boards.
Sherwood's campus is a beautiful mix of old-world charm and contemporary amenities. Smart boards in every classroom, advanced science, computer, and robotics labs, along with two unique auditoriums, provide a conducive learning environment. With separate hostels for girls and boys and three dining halls, the school ensures a comfortable stay.
Beyond studies, Sherwood values all-round development. The school's vast infrastructure supports a range of sports and activities. From cricket, football, and hockey to swimming, athletics, and basketball, students have ample opportunities to explore their sporting interests. Indoor games like table tennis, chess, and billiards complement outdoor activities, encouraging a well-rounded experience.Sherwood College is more than academics; it's a place where students thrive academically, athletically, and creatively. By fostering a holistic environment and providing top-notch facilities, Sherwood aims to mold individuals who are not only academically inclined but also excel in sports, the arts, and diverse extracurricular pursuits.
Age range: 8 to 18
Curriculum: CISCE, IGCSE
Address: Ayarpatta, Tallital, Nainital – 263002, Uttarakhand, India
Phone: +91 594 223 6361
Email: contact@sherwood.edu.in
Website: http://www.sherwood.edu.in/