Many students switch schools for 11th and 12th in India for multiple reasons. It could be because their schools don’t offer certain subjects or they wish to pursue an Arts or Commerce stream that their current school does not offer.
Many students switch because their parents are moving, for better sports facilities at a different school or for a better teacher faculty.
Also read:Elite schools in India
Why Students Change Schools for Class 11 and 12?
Switching schools after Class 10? You’re not alone. Happens all the time.
I did it too. My school didn’t offer Psychology. So, I had to move. Here’s what usually drives that decision:
Your current school doesn’t offer the stream you want
Want to take up Humanities but your school only has Science and Commerce?
Yeah, that’s a problem.
No point forcing yourself into a stream just because the school doesn’t offer options.
Better teachers. Better labs. Better everything.
Sometimes, it’s not about what’s available. It’s how it’s taught.
Some schools have experienced teachers, smarter classrooms, and better labs. And that makes a big difference.
Your family is shifting cities
Job transfer? Moving closer to family?
It makes sense to change schools. But here’s a tip—don’t rush it. Take your time to find a good one in the new city.
Coaching + School under one roof
If you’re prepping for JEE or NEET, this one’s big. Some schools offer integrated coaching.
Meaning, no more juggling between school and coaching centres.
Switching boards for a better fit
CBSE. ICSE. IB. State Board.
Each one has its own teaching style and focus. Some parents prefer switching from ICSE to CBSE for less pressure. Others move to IB for global exposure.
How to Choose the Right School for Senior Secondary Classes
It’s not just about good buildings or big playgrounds. You need to think ahead—college, career, coaching… the whole deal.
Let’s break it down.
Consider the stream: Science, Commerce or Arts
This is where it starts.
- Want to be an engineer? Go for Science (PCM).
- Dreaming of CA or MBA? Commerce might be better.
- Into writing, design or law? Arts (Humanities) is a strong base.
Choose a school that supports your stream fully. Good labs, good teachers, enough subject choices.
Check the board (CBSE, ICSE, IB, State Board)
Not all boards are the same.
- CBSE – Great for JEE/NEET. Most popular in India.
- ICSE – Focus on English, theory, detailed concepts.
- IB – Best for international colleges. Expensive.
- State Board – Local, affordable, but syllabus varies by state.
Pick the board based on your future plans.
Faculty, results, and alumni network
Here’s a trick: talk to ex-students.
Ask questions like:
- How are the teachers?
- Do they explain concepts or just rush through syllabus?
- Any alumni in top colleges?
Good teachers = good foundation. Period.
School fees and scholarship options
Fees can be shockingly high. So check:
- Annual tuition
- Hostel or transport
- Scholarships or fee waivers
- Extra charges for labs, sports, events
Compare it with your budget. No shame in asking for help or discounts
Extra-curricular and coaching support
You need more than just books.
- Is there time for sports?
- Do they have clubs—like drama, coding, or debate?
- Do they help with JEE/NEET coaching?
If your kid is shifting schools too then check out the best schools for 11th and 12th in India & their annual fees.
Top 8 Best Schools for 11th and 12th In India
1. The Doon School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Established in 1935. The Doon School is one of India’s most prestigious all-boys boarding schools. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and holistic development, it has a rich history of producing successful leaders in various fields.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 10-12 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | ICSE / ISC |
| Annual Fees | ₹10 – ₹12 lakhs approx. |
| Address | Mall Road, Dehradun, Uttarakhand – 248001 |
| Website | www.doonschool.com |
2. Welham Girls’ School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Founded in 1957. Welham Girls’ School is a renowned all-girls boarding school with a strong academic focus. It is known for its excellent infrastructure, experienced faculty, and emphasis on extracurricular activities.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 6-8 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | CISCE (ICSE/ISC) |
| Annual Fees | ₹6 – ₹8 lakhs approx. |
| Address | No. 19, Municipal Road, Dalanwala, Dehradun – 248001 |
| Website | www.welhamgirls.com |
3. Mayo College, Ajmer, Rajasthan
Established in 1875. Mayo College is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious all-boys boarding schools. It has a strong academic tradition and is known for producing leaders in various fields.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 8-10 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | CISCE (ICSE/ISC) |
| Annual Fees | ₹8 – ₹10 lakhs approx. |
| Address | Srinagar Road, Ajmer, Rajasthan – 305001 |
| Website | www.mayocollege.com |
4. The Shri Ram School, Delhi, NCR
Established in 1988. The Shri Ram School is a highly regarded co-educational day school known for its progressive teaching methods and emphasis on holistic education.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 2-4 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | CISCE (ICSE/ISC) and IB (some branches) |
| Annual Fees | ₹2 – ₹4 lakhs approx. |
| Address | DLF Phase III, Gurugram, Haryana – 122002 |
| Website | www.tsrs.org |
5. DPS RK Puram, Delhi, NCR
Established in 1972. Delhi Public School (DPS) RK Puram is one of the flagship institutions of the DPS Society. It offers a strong academic curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 1-2 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | CBSE |
| Annual Fees | ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs approx. |
| Address | Kaifi Azmi Marg, Sector 12, RK Puram, New Delhi – 110022 |
| Website | www.dpsrkp.net |
6. The Bishop’s School, Pune, Maharashtra
Founded in 1859. The Bishop’s School is a well-established co-educational school known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 1-2 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | ICSE / ISC |
| Annual Fees | ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs approx. |
| Address | 5A, General Bhagat Marg, Camp, Pune, Maharashtra – 411001 |
| Website | www.thebishopsschool.org |
7. Sanskriti School, Delhi, NCR
Established in 1988. Sanskriti School is a co-educational institution known for its focus on academics, cultural activities, and sports.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 1-2 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | CBSE |
| Annual Fees | ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs approx. |
| Address | Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021 |
| Website | www.sanskritischool.edu.in |
8. The Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established in 1860. This school is one of Mumbai’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, offering a comprehensive education and a strong emphasis on character development.
Annual Fees: Approximately INR 3-4 lakhs.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Board | ICSE / ISC / IBDP |
| Annual Fees | ₹3 – ₹4 lakhs approx. |
| Address | 6, Purshottamdas Thakurdas Marg, Fort, Mumbai – 400001 |
| Website | www.cathedral-school.com |
CBSE vs ICSE vs IB for Classes 11 & 12 – Which is Better?
This one’s tricky. There’s no ‘best board’.
Only the right board for your child.
Let’s compare.
| Board | Curriculum Style | Fees | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| CBSE | Structured, simpler | Moderate | JEE, NEET, Indian colleges |
| ICSE | Detailed, theory-heavy | Moderate-High | Literature, Law, Humanities |
| IB | Global, concept-based | High | Study abroad, Critical thinking |
In short
- Choose CBSE for science-heavy careers.
- Choose ICSE if your child loves theory or writing.
- Choose IB if college abroad is the goal.
And don’t forget… every child is different.
Pick what suits their learning style, not what’s trending.
Also read: Best education boards in India
Best Government & Affordable Schools for Senior Secondary in India
Not all good schools are expensive. There are gems in the government system too.
Let’s look at some solid choices.
DPS RK Puram, Delhi
One of the most respected names in India.Strong academics. Great results. Big alumni network.
Fees? Reasonable for the value it offers.
Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV)
If your parents work for the government, chances are you’ve heard of KV.
- Uniform syllabus across India
- Affordable fees
- Focus on discipline + academics
Perfect if you’re shifting cities often.
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs)
These are free. Yes, zero fees.
- Residential schools for rural students
- CBSE board
- Entrance test required in Class 6
Many JNV students go on to top IITs and medical colleges.
Sainik Schools (for Boys)
Want your child in the armed forces someday?
Sainik Schools prepare boys for NDA and defence careers.They follow CBSE. Fees are low. Discipline is high.
Top-performing State Government Schools
Some states do it better.
- Tamil Nadu has strong public schools with NEET/JEE support
- Kerala’s model is great for holistic learning
- Delhi’s Model Schools have improved big time
Don’t underestimate these schools. Visit them. Talk to students.
Also read: Best schools in Mumbai
The aforementioned are some of the many schools you can consider putting your children in. Remember, investing in your child’s education is as important as choosing the right school for your children.
Select what is the best and most convenient school for your child and your pocket with our school cost calculator. Thus, it is important to choose the best schools for your child to ensure that they passes out with flying colours.
Conclusion
Choosing the right school for 11th and 12th grade is a big step. It needs careful thought. Do your research. Visit schools if you can. Talk to teachers and other parents.
Remember, investing in your child’s education is one of the most important things you can do. Our EduFund tools, like the school cost calculator and education loans, are here to support you every step of the way. We want to help you secure the best academic future for your child.
FAQs
When should I start applying?
It’s best to start looking and applying when your child is in Class 10.
Which are the best schools in India for Class 11 and 12?
Some of the best senior secondary schools in India include The Doon School (Dehradun), Mayo College (Ajmer), DPS RK Puram (Delhi), and Cathedral & John Connon (Mumbai). These schools are known for their academic results, faculty, and holistic development.
Can I change schools after Class 10 in India?
Yes, students can change schools after Class 10, especially if they want a different stream (like Arts or Commerce), a better faculty, or are relocating. Many top schools offer admissions into Class 11 through entrance exams or merit-based criteria.
Which board is best for Classes 11 and 12 in India: CBSE, ICSE, or IB?
It depends on the student’s goals. CBSE is ideal for competitive exams (like JEE/NEET), ICSE offers depth in theory and English, while IB suits those aiming for international education.
