By the Education Karnataka Editorial Team · Last updated: November 2026
Quick answer: ICSE boarding schools in Karnataka are spread across Bengaluru, Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga and North Karnataka. Families choose ICSE for its strong English, broad syllabus and detailed approach to subjects. Many ICSE schools continue to ISC (Class 12), while some students move to State PUC after Class 10.
Key takeaways
- ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) are run by CISCE.
- ICSE suits children who enjoy reading, writing and detail.
- Check whether a school offers ISC or PUC continuity after Class 10.
- Confirm affiliation on the CISCE website.
Why choose ICSE?
- Language strength: English language and literature get detailed attention.
- Broad curriculum: Science, humanities and practical work.
- Analytical skills: The emphasis on detail and application develops strong thinking.
Some ICSE residential schools listed in our directory
Listed in no particular order. This is not a ranking:
| School | Location | Notes |
| Sandur Residential School | Sandur | ICSE, Nursery to Class 10, day scholars and boarders |
| General Thimayya Public School | Madikeri, Kodagu | ICSE |
| Nalanda Gurukul International School | Kodagu | ICSE, Pre-KG to Class 10 |
| Amber Valley Residential School | Chikkamagaluru | ICSE, co-educational boarding |
| St. Mary’s International School | Chikkamagaluru | ICSE, ISC and PUC pathways |
| National Residential School | Konandur, Shivamogga | ICSE and PUC, boarding |
| Greenwood High International School | Bengaluru | ICSE, ISC, IGCSE and IBDP; day-cum-boarding |
Check current boarding availability, classes and fees directly with each school.
What to check in an ICSE boarding school
- Continuity: Does the school offer ISC, or PUC, after Class 10?
- Entrance preparation: Is there support for NEET, JEE or KCET if your child needs it?
- Hostel supervision and separate hostels.
- Language support, especially for children joining from State Board schools.
- Total annual cost.
Frequently asked questions
Is ICSE harder than CBSE? ICSE is often more detailed, especially in English and the humanities. Many students do very well in it.
Can ICSE students take NEET and JEE? Yes, if they meet the subject and eligibility requirements. Extra practice with the NCERT-based syllabus is usually helpful.
Can I move my child from ICSE to State PUC? Yes. Many students make this switch after Class 10. See our guide on switching boards.
How do I verify ICSE affiliation? Check the school’s details on the official CISCE website.
Do ICSE boarding schools teach Kannada? Schools in Karnataka are required by state law to teach Kannada as a language, though applying this to ICSE and CBSE schools is under legal challenge. Ask each school how it is offered.
Need help shortlisting schools? Browse our directory of boarding schools in Karnataka and residential PU colleges in Karnataka, or message us on WhatsApp for guidance.
About Education Karnataka: a directory of residential schools and PU colleges across Karnataka, helping parents compare their options.
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