Top 10 Most Expensive Schools in India
If you’re interested in knowing what the most expensive school in India is or other popular schools in India, this blog will focus on the reasons why these top schools in India are considered the best schools in India and what makes them really distinguished as educational institutes.
Top 10 Most Expensive Schools in India
Selecting the right school is important for children’s growth. Below is a detailed information about some of the most expensive schools in India with their location, board and fees.
Examining the fees at the highest-cost schools in India, it is clear that getting a quality education will be a significant expense. Use our Edu Cost Calculator today to get an estimate of future costs and start planning better.
India’s costliest schools are well-known for delivering high standards of education. These schools provide incredible facilities, an up-to-date teaching framework, and encourage a student’s total development, making their experience of learning tremendous. Now let’s look at the top 10 most expensive schools in India and see what each one brings to the table!
1. Woodstock School, Mussoorie
Woodstock has developed into one of India’s most expensive, and the oldest, residential schools in Asia, starting out in 1854 as a Protestant Girls’ School in Landour established by three women—Mrs Bignell, Miss Aytoun and Miss Birch—appointed by the London Society for Promoting Female Education in the East. The campus is located in the peaceful space of Mussoorie’s foothills and provides a safe, pollution-free area that promotes healthy minds to learn in.
Mission:
To develop compassionate, confident, and socially responsible individuals through holistic education, experiential learning, and global citizenship.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | IB MYP & DP program with focus on experiential learning, critical thinking, and global citizenship. |
| Facilities | 250-acre campus with modern labs, library, arts & music studios, sports arenas, swimming pool, and outdoor education centre. |
| Boarding & Student Life | Comfortable hostels, pastoral care, and activities fostering independence and leadership. |
| Global Exposure | Students from 30+ countries with cultural exchange opportunities. |
| Alumni Network | Includes Chris Anderson, Tom Alter, Pernia Qureshi, and Nayantara Sahgal. |
| Fees (2025–26) | ₹19,86,000 (Grade 6) to ₹22,06,000 (Grade 12) approx. |
| What Makes It unique | Premium education, global diversity, historic legacy, and unique Himalayan setting. |
2. Dhirubhai Ambani International School, Mumbai
Dhirubhai Ambani International School (DAIS) has an esteemed reputation as a wealthy school in India. This esteemed institution was founded in 2003 by Mrs. Nita Ambani, and is located in Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex. DAIS has beautiful facilities, and provides a learning experience that links Indian traditions with international standards in education. It is known for its excellent education, modern teaching methods and approaches, and commitment to stimulating development through extracurricular activities.
Mission:
To provide a learning environment that empowers and allows children to realise their best selves for their overall development, through the joy of learning, appreciation, and embodiment of values, and the celebration of diversity.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | ICSE, IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme; strong emphasis on STEAM, leadership programmes, and community service. |
| Facilities | State-of-the-art science and computer labs, multimedia library, performing arts centre, indoor sports complex, swimming pool, and advanced classrooms with digital learning tools. |
| Boarding & Student Life | Primarily a day school; offers extensive after-school activities, student-led clubs, and leadership councils. |
| Global Exposure | Exchange programmes, participation in international conferences like Model United Nations, and global university linkages. |
| Alumni Network | Includes Anshul Bhatt, Aditi Raheja, Sara Tendulkar, Janhvi Kapoor |
| Fees (2025–26) | ₹1,70,000 to ₹4,50,000 annually (day school) + additional charges for activities and resources. |
| What Makes It unique | High academic achievement rates, global recognition, strong leadership training, and a future-ready curriculum. |
3. École Mondiale World School, Mumbai
École Mondiale World School is one of Mumbai’s leading IB World schools and was founded in 2004 by the International Knowledge Park that believes in delivering a world-class education with an emphasis on creativity, innovation, and global awareness. Located in Juhu, the school provides a complete IB education from Primary Years to Diploma, preparing students for the best universities in the world.
Mission:
Providing quality education that promotes and inspires learners who are resilient, curious and confident to engage locally and globally, and who aspire to be responsible citizens.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | Full IB continuum – PYP, MYP, and DP; focus on inquiry-based learning, arts, sports, and technology. |
| Facilities | Modern labs, large library, arts studios, sports halls, swimming pool, playground, and digital classrooms. |
| Boarding & Student Life | Day school with vibrant activities like sports, arts, music, debates, and community projects. |
| Global Exposure | International student exchanges, global competitions, and collaborations with overseas schools. |
| Alumni Network | Graduates at Oxford, Cambridge, Stanford, NYU, and thriving in arts, business, and tech. |
| Fees (2025–26) | ₹9,00,000 – ₹12,50,000 annually. |
| What Makes It Unique | Complete IB programme under one roof, strong creative focus, excellent placements, and diverse culture. |
4. Doon School, Dehradun
Doon School, established in 1935 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, is India’s premier all boys’ full boarding school for students aged 12 to 18. A school that has produced many of the country’s finest leaders, professionals and artists, it has an extensive application pool consisting of students from across India as well as children from Indian expatriate families living abroad. Situated on 70 acres of attractive campus teeming with flora and fauna, the school combines its deep-rooted traditions with a contemporary education system that is modern and progressive.
Mission:
To educate responsible citizens and leaders through a balanced education based on academic excellence, character, and service to society.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | CISCE (ICSE & ISC) and International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma Programme); emphasis on academics, leadership, and community service. |
| Facilities | Expansive campus with science and computer labs, well-stocked library, art and music schools, sports fields, swimming pool, and modern boarding houses. |
| Boarding & Student Life | Full residential school with a vibrant house system, sports, cultural activities, clubs, and leadership programmes. |
| Global Exposure | Student exchange programmes, international conferences, and collaborations with overseas schools. |
| Alumni Network | Notable alumni include Rajiv Gandhi, Naveen Patnaik, Amitav Ghosh, and Gulzar. |
| Fees (2025–26) | Approx. ₹12,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 annually (boarding). |
| What Makes It unique | Iconic legacy, holistic all-round development, leadership training, and a strong global alumni network. |
5. The Scindia School, Gwalior
One of the finest all-boys boarding schools in India, Scindia is recognised for developing the leaders, thinkers and change agents of tomorrow. Founded in 1897 by Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia, the school is located in the grandeur of Gwalior Fort in Madhya Pradesh, providing a backdrop to the rich heritage and tradition of the school, while embracing modern education.
Mission:
To promote a culture of excellence in academics, leadership, and character with an emphasis on values that will better prepare the students for a successful future in a global society.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | CBSE curriculum with strong emphasis on academics, leadership training, sports, and cultural enrichment. |
| Facilities | State-of-the-art science and computer labs, modern classrooms, sports infrastructure, music and art studios, and residential houses within the historic fort campus. |
| Boarding & Student Life | Full residential school fostering discipline, camaraderie, and personal growth through a robust house system, co-curricular activities, and student leadership roles. |
| Global Exposure | International student exchange programmes, global competitions, and collaborations with reputed institutions abroad. |
| Alumni Network | Distinguished alumni include Jyotiraditya Scindia, Salman Khan, and Anurag Kashyap. |
| Fees (2025–26) | Approx. ₹8,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 annually (boarding). |
| What Makes It Exceptional | Unique location inside a historic fort, strong leadership focus, and a balance of heritage and contemporary education. |
6. The British School, New Delhi
The British School, New Delhi, was established in 1963 by the British High Commissioner’s wife and the High Commissioner. At its onset, the school had only 30 students, coming from five countries, and was established in the Defence Colony. It has since grown into one of India’s leading international schools. It continues to provide an active, multicultural environment with students from over 60 countries, promoting a global perspective as well as academic success, creative thinking, and personal growth.
Mission:
To provide a rigorous and supportive learning experience committed to curiosity, critical thinking, and diversity in order for our students to flourish within the global community.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | British National Curriculum, IGCSE, and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) with strong emphasis on academics, arts, sports, and community service. |
| Facilities | Modern classrooms, fully equipped science and computer labs, extensive sports infrastructure, performing arts studios, and a well-stocked library. |
| Student Life | Day school with vibrant co-curricular programmes, leadership councils, cultural exchanges, and global events. |
| Global Exposure | International partnerships, student exchange programmes, and participation in global competitions. |
| Alumni Network | Distinguished alumni in diplomacy, business, arts, and academia, including children of diplomats and expatriates. |
| Fees (2025–26) | Approx. ₹10,00,000 – ₹14,00,000 annually (day school). |
| What Makes It Unique | Rich history, strong international curriculum, culturally diverse student body, and a focus on holistic development in the heart of New Delhi. |
7. Pathways World School, Aravali, Gurgaon
Initiated in 2003, Pathways World School, Aravali, Gurgaon, was the first school in North India to offer the full range of International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). The campus is situated on a large 34-acre parcel of land that was built specifically for educational purposes in the beautiful hills adjacent to the Aravali range. The school integrates rigorous academic programs into the natural environments and embraces a holistic educational philosophy.
Mission:
The mission is to cultivate young people who are curious, knowledgeable, and caring, and to empower them to build a more peaceful and compassionate world through the engagement of diversity in culture.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | Full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) with a balanced focus on academics, arts, sports, and leadership skills. |
| Facilities | State-of-the-art classrooms, science and computer labs, digital learning studios, performing arts centre, sports complexes, and eco-friendly campus design. |
| Student Life | Day and boarding options (weekly and full boarding) with an emphasis on extracurricular activities, clubs, leadership councils, and community service. |
| Global Exposure | International collaborations, cultural exchanges, and global competitions in academics, arts, and sports. |
| Alumni Network | Graduates placed in top universities across the US, UK, Australia and other countries. |
| Fees (2025–26) | Approx. ₹8,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 annually (varies for day and boarding). |
| What Makes It Unique | Stunning natural setting, innovative teaching methodologies, and a strong commitment to sustainability and global citizenship. |
8. Oakridge International School, Hyderabad
Initiated in the year 2001, Oakridge International School, Hyderabad is a member of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools. It is one of the finest international schools in India. The institution delivers IB, Cambridge, and CBSE curriculum programs on its 5.11-acre campus located in Gachibowli. It is known for good academic quality, innovative teaching practices, and commitment to developing learners as global citizens.
Mission:
To inspire every child to be lifelong learners and responsible global citizens through transformational learning experiences.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | IB PYP, MYP, DP, Cambridge IGCSE, and CBSE with a strong emphasis on STEAM, performing arts, sports, and leadership programmes. |
| Facilities | Modern classrooms, science & robotics labs, design studios, performing arts theatres, swimming pool, sports courts, and dedicated innovation hubs. |
| Student Life | Vibrant extracurricular activities, global exchange programmes, leadership councils, and extensive community service initiatives. |
| Global Exposure | Access to Nord Anglia’s global campus, collaborations with Juilliard for performing arts, and MIT for STEAM education. |
| Alumni Network | Students placed in top universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and the University of Toronto. |
| Fees (2025–26) | Approx. ₹6,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 annually (varies by grade and curriculum). |
| What Makes It Unique | Strong global network, future-ready skill development, and personalised learning pathways. |
9. Good Shepherd International School, Ooty
The Good Shepherd International School (GSIS) in Ooty was established in 1977. It ranks as one of the leading residential schools in India and provides a broad-based education in the IB, Cambridge, and CBSE learning systems. GSIS is well-recognised for its high academic standards, and focus on the holistic development of each child. The campus at Nilgiris provides an ideal setting to support creativity, leadership skills and students’ active engagement in the world as a citizen of a global village.
Mission:
To nurture learners who are confident, compassionate and aware of the world through a high quality education and pedagogy that instils and fosters important values.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | IB, Cambridge IGCSE, CBSE with focus on STEAM, arts, sports, leadership. |
| Facilities | Smart classrooms, science & robotics labs, design studios, theatres, pool, sports arenas. |
| Student Life | Active clubs, global exchanges, leadership councils, community service. |
| Global Exposure | Links with Juilliard (arts), MIT (STEAM), Nord Anglia global campus. |
| Alumni Network | Graduates in top universities like Harvard, Oxford, Stanford. |
| Fees (2025–26) | ₹6–12 lakh annually (approx.). |
| What Makes It Unique | Global links, skill-based learning, personalised pathways. |
10. Welham Girls’ School, Dehradun
Welham Girls’ School was established in 1957 by Hersilia Suzie Oliphant. It is a renowned private boarding school for girls, located in Dehradun, India. The school is recognised for its outstanding academic achievement and its holistic approach to education. In addition to academics, it provides opportunities for students to develop through a full program of learning, arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. The school follows the ICSE curriculum and serves girls from grade 6 to grade 12.
Mission:
To empower young women with knowledge, values, and confidence to be compassionate, responsible, and impactful global citizens.
| Category | Details |
| Curriculum & Offerings | ICSE and ISC with focus on academics, arts, sports, and leadership. |
| Facilities | Modern classrooms, science labs, computer centre, library, sports complex, music & dance studios. |
| Student Life | Diverse clubs, cultural events, sports meets, community service. |
| Global Exposure | Exchange programmes and inter-school competitions. |
| Alumni Network | Distinguished alumnae in politics, arts, law, and business. |
| Fees (2025–26) | ₹5–8 lakh annually (approx.). |
| What Makes It Unique | Strong alumnae network, holistic grooming, leadership focus. |
Conclusion
India has some of the premium schools in India, known for academic rigour and advanced school facilities. There are many expansive and affluent schools in India providing holistic development and global exposure. If you are evaluating for top 10 most expensive schools in India, this blog can assist you in taking informed decisions with respect to school fees and other offerings. Come check us out for personalised educational solutions that can help you and your child shape and invest in their future!
Related FAQs
Why are these schools so expensive?
These schools invest a lot of money into their infrastructure and international curricula and faculty. They offer premium facilities, including, but not limited to, sports complexes, libraries, music rooms and international exposure.
What is the most expensive school in India?
As of now, Woodstock School on Mussoorie is the most expensive school in India, fees of ₹18 Lakhs per year.
Are these schools wort the cost?
As a parent or family, if you are looking for international exposure, personal engagement, and premium facilities, then yes the investment is justified, as they do provide opportunities for international universities and work opportunities.
What should parents keep in mind when choosing a school?
Consider the school’s curriculum, extracurricular activities, location, and whether or not they are producing graduates who are going on to find success in life. It might be a good idea to research the top 10 most expensive schools in India to begin with.
Are there scholarships available from these schools?
Some of the top ranked schools in India have merit-based or need-based scholarships. It’s best to reach out to the school directly for further details.
Preparation of 11 Plus Exam for Grammar Schools
Crack entrance exam in 1st attempt with true11 Plus
True11 Plus provides personalized coaching and support to help students prepare for the 11 plus exam and gain entry into top grammar schools in the UK.
With a focus on building confidence and developing critical thinking skills, True11 Plus offers a comprehensive program and a range of resources to help students achieve their full potential.
