International schools in Hyderabad and other cities often offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge programmes, sometimes alongside CBSE. Here is a plain-language guide.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
- PYP (Primary Years Programme) for younger children.
- MYP (Middle Years Programme) for the middle years.
- DP (Diploma Programme) for the final two years of school, ages about 16 to 19.
IB focuses on inquiry, projects and international perspectives. The Diploma includes an extended essay and a theory of knowledge course.
Cambridge
- IGCSE is usually taken at about age 14 to 16, roughly equal to Class 10.
- AS and A Levels follow, usually at age 16 to 19.
Cambridge offers a wide choice of subjects and is known for rigorous written exams.
Questions to ask an international school
- Which programmes are you authorised to offer, and since when? Ask to see the authorisation.
- If my child switches to CBSE or a State board later, how do you support the move?
- Where have recent graduates gone for higher studies, in India and abroad?
- What is the full annual cost, including exam fees and activities?
See schools listing IB or Cambridge in the SchoolOps directory as more schools are verified.
This guide is general information for parents. Rules, dates and fees change, so always confirm with the school or the official source mentioned.