Although IGCSE and ICSE are Education Boards in India, both differ to a greater extent in terms of curriculum, assessment modes and in many other factors. These Boards have a major role in controlling and governing the educational system in India. The Government of India, Higher Education Department and Ministry of Human Resource Development recognize both IGCSE and ICSE Boards. The major differences between IGCSE and ICSE educational system in India are explained in detail in this article.

IGCSE education

The IGCSE education is an internationally recognized qualification offered to matriculates. This Board was set up in the year 1988. It is an inclusive two-year programme, spread over Class 9 and 10, having final examinations offered every year in the months of May and November. Students who are aged between 14 – 17 years can enrol into schools that follow IGCSE syllabus. This Board offers an array of subjects and also persuades high educational standards all the way through a sensible approach to coaching and learning. The assessment process in the IGCSE educational system is not restricted to conventional written papers. It also comprises of an assortment of oral and listening tests.

ICSE education

The non-governmental Board of School education in India, Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations carries out the ICSE examinations every year in our country. It is one among the standardized Education Boards in our country. The ICSE education is provided to Class 10 students. Many educational institutes in India follow the ICSE curriculum. The Board was formed in the year 1986 as an after effect of the New Education Policy. The final evaluation process in the Board is carried out taking into consideration the written tests, course work, projects, assignments and laboratory works.

Key differentiators between IGCSE education and ICSE education

• IGCSE stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education whereas ICSE stands for Indian Certificate of Secondary Education.
• IGCSE educational system is of international standards whereas ICSE educational system is of Indian standards.
• In India, there are only a limited number of educational institutes that come under the IGCSE Board whereas there are numerous schools in our country that follow the ICSE curriculum.

Both IGCSE and ICSE educational system in India co-operatively works to wipe off the illiteracy from our country.