What is the difference between IGCSE and IB schools in India?
IGCSE (Cambridge International) is a curriculum for grades 6–10 followed by A-Levels for 11–12, run by Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE). IB (International Baccalaureate) is a K-12 framework with four programmes (PYP, MYP, DP, CP), run by the IB Organisation, Geneva. Both are recognised by Indian universities via AIU equivalence.
Both curricula are globally recognised, but they differ in structure and pedagogy.
Curriculum
- IGCSE + A-Level: Subject-focused, exam-driven, more familiar to Indian parents transitioning from CBSE/ICSE.
- IB (PYP/MYP/DP): Inquiry-based, interdisciplinary, includes CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge.
For teachers
- IGCSE roles: Subject-specialist, similar to CBSE PGT but with Cambridge exam board training.
- IB roles: Require conceptual and inquiry-based teaching. IB workshops (Cat 1) recommended.
Salary in India
Both pay significantly above CBSE. IB DP teachers typically earn slightly more than IGCSE/A-Level teachers because DP training is more intensive.
Concentration
- IGCSE: Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune.
- IB: Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad.
Sources
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Updated 8 Jul 2026 · JSON