Q and A: Parents ask questions about Indian schools

1. I wish to know if the system of alternate questions for special children in schools affiliated to CBSE is implemented or not for final exams of class IX and X under CBSE. By alternate questions, I mean questions in lieu of say making diagrams or drawings, geometry in mathematics etc which a child with disability like cerebral palsy would find impossible to respond. Do we really have this provision, if yes, then does it require a prior intimation to the authorities. I would also like to know whom to approach for the same. Please guide.
—Inderpal Kanwal
No such facility at the CBSE Board level. For ICSE such a case is evaluated individually based on the cause and subsequent need. The School Principal writes to the Board for concessions to be granted, once the parents make a written request with all the supporting documentary evidence from a recognised medical centre.

2. My son is 6 years old. He is a US citizen although we live in India. I want to send to one of the elite boarding schools of England such as Eton College or Harrow. Can you please suggest what I can do to facilitate the same.
—Amina Bhaika
All UK School applications are available online on the individual School's website. Once you submit the online application you are asked to write test papers in the subject you wish to pursue, followed by an interview in person at that School in UK.

3. I want my son to study at Kendriya Vidhyala (CBSE) school. Can you please help me with. What is the admission procedure. As a self employed professional, is it possible to get in my son in that school. Need your expert advice
—Prabhakaran
I have really no idea about the Kendriya Vidhyala admission. I presume it should be on the School's website.

4. I have two kids and both of them are students of Kendriya Vidyalaya No 2 Jaipur. My elder child is in class VII and younger one is in class II. Their school results are very poor. I am likely to get my transfer from Jaipur within six months. Could you please suggest top 5 places in India where my children can surely gain interest in their study and good command over communication skills which is zero at present. I am ready to move anywhere in India for the sake of education of my children. Please advise.
— Gopal Sharma
Any School with a good academic track record and one which offers large variety of extra-curricular and community service opportunities, should be fine. The number of students in each class also makes a difference, if the child is very shy.

5. Which board to choose while taking admission in school. What is the difference between ICSE, IGCSE , IB. Which board is better?
— Bindu Shah
ICSE: Tradition, tried and tested success. All students take the same level, stronger in Maths and Sciences.
IGCSE: Relatively new, needs experienced well trained faculty who can challenge the children's thinking and reasoning abilities, higher and standard/lower levels available and has equal emphasis on the

Humanities and Science branches of subjects. Which is better?

Depends on :
a) the students learning style and personality.

b) Future career goals/plans eg. place for undergraduate education, which stream – Engg., Humanities, Science, Applied Arts