India Emerges as Second-Largest Host of International Schools
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India has become the world’s second-largest host of international schools, with a total of 972 institutions as of January 2025—a 10% increase from 884 schools in 2019. This growth surpasses the global average, as the total number of international schools worldwide rose by 8% during the same period, reaching 14,833.
Maharashtra leads the country with 210 schools offering International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International (IGCSE) programs. Karnataka follows, with Tamil Nadu and Telangana rapidly expanding their international school presence.
This surge is driven by Indian families seeking to “future-proof” their children’s education. With rising incomes and aspirations for global career opportunities, parents are increasingly opting for international curricula that emphasize personalized learning and global exposure. This trend reflects a shift towards educational systems aligned with Western universities, aiming to provide students with a competitive edge in the global arena.
