Overview

Does having the word international in a school’s name make it international? We use the term “International Schools” which could refer to the curriculum or describe diverse classrooms. Sometimes schools use it because it simply sounds good!

International school come in different forms and sizes. It includes a wide variety of format and curricula with one being more international than other. Also, the number of international schools in India has increased as they are becoming the top choice of parents. Many of these schools are affiliated to well-known bodies like the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) or the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). Whereas, there are others who do not have any tie-ups with such international organizations but claim to offer an international quality of teaching.

International or domestic
International Schools

International Schools

There are many schools in India that call themselves “international” but are actually affiliated to the state board or central board like CBSE. The list of international schools that actually offer domestic curricula includes the seven Amity International school in and around New Delhi and the Bombay International School in Mumbai.

In order to become an international school, a school generally follows a national or international curriculum different from the host country. In addition to it, the emphasis is on international education and global citizenship.

Criteria of international schools
  • Students can transfer education programme across international schools globally
  • A moving population
  • International curriculum- IB, IGCSE
  • International accreditation
  • A multinational teacher population
  • Multinational student body
  • Non-selective student recruitment
  • Usually English or bi-lingual as the language of instruction

While some international schools have an American, Canadian or British slant, some simply call themselves an international school because they have incorporated multiple approaches from different formats, and provide an international curriculum with a global perspective. International school delivers the IB program (just as not all IB schools are international), but there is one thing in common that is the desire to create global citizens who have an understanding of other countries, cultures and histories beyond their own national perspective and/or system.

Go for true Internationalism, not just a tag

In the other article, What Makes a School International there is some debate as to what constitutes an international school. Is it the curriculum, the student body, the teaching staff – or all of the above? However, if parents are keen on their children getting an international qualification they should do their homework. They must check if the school is affiliated to a body that awards international qualifications. Therefore, choose the right international school that you think is best for your kid.