What international curricula are offered in Mumbai and how do they differ?
Most international schools in Mumbai offer the International Baccalaureate (PYP/MYP/DP), Cambridge pathways (IGCSE and A-Level) or an American high-school diploma model; a few follow other national systems such as the French curriculum. The IB is generally described as a broad, inquiry-led programme that emphasises holistic learning across subjects, Cambridge IGCSE/A-Level focuses on subject-by-subject depth and external examinations, and American diplomas tend to be credit-based and flexible in course choice. Your family’s university and subject plans, and whether you expect to move countries again, are the main practical differences to weigh.
How much do international schools in Mumbai typically cost?
Fees vary widely between schools and between year groups; many international-curriculum schools in Mumbai charge in the mid-range (hundreds of thousands of rupees per year) while a smaller group charge substantially more, particularly for senior years. Families should also budget for one-off admission or capital deposits where applicable, plus extras such as bus transport, school meals, uniforms, examinations and overseas trips. Check each school’s published fee schedule and ask whether quoted figures include transport and activity costs.
When should we start the admissions process for a place in Mumbai?
Start as early as possible: many international schools operate rolling admissions but popular year groups fill quickly and it is common to apply six to twelve months before your desired start date. The process normally includes a school visit or open day, submission of records, an aptitude or placement assessment and an interview with the child and/or parents; waiting lists are frequently used when year groups are full. If you are relocating from abroad, tell the school your arrival window early so they can advise about provisional places and required documentation.
Will my child be taught in English and can they continue learning our home language?
English is the primary medium of instruction at almost all international schools in Mumbai, but schools commonly teach Hindi and Marathi and offer foreign languages such as French, Spanish and German; many schools also run mother-tongue or home-language support programmes. If maintaining a specific home language is important, ask for the school’s language policy and provision (for example whether mother-tongue lessons, bilingual support or external language classes are available). Policies and the level of support differ between schools, so request samples of language timetables and any assessment of language progress.
What should a relocating family check during a school visit?
Look beyond marketing: check how the school supports transitions for children who have studied different systems, what pastoral and learning-support services exist for additional needs or EAL (English as an additional language), the typical class size, and how the school reports progress to parents. Ask to see recent timetables, sample assessment reports, university or next-step guidance for older students, and clarity on fees and refundable deposits; observe a lesson if possible to see teaching style and student engagement. These practical checks help you match a school’s routine and support to your child’s needs rather than relying on reputation alone.
