Many schools use “international” in their name without teaching an international curriculum. Before you pay a deposit, use these 15 questions to confirm what the school really offers, plus the red flags that suggest you should look elsewhere.
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Compare International Baccalaureate schools by fees, boarding and parent reviews.
15 Questions to Ask
- Which curriculum do you teach: IB, Cambridge, Edexcel, American or CBSE?
- Is the school officially authorised for that curriculum, and since when?
- Which IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP) or Cambridge stages are authorised?
- Which grades does the school cover?
- What were the last three years of exam results?
- Where do graduates go to university?
- What is the full fee schedule, including one-time and exam fees?
- What is refundable, and when?
- How much do fees rise each year?
- What is the student-teacher ratio?
- How are teachers qualified and trained in the curriculum?
- What support exists for transfers in and out?
- What languages are taught?
- What is the transport coverage and timing?
- What happens if we withdraw mid-year?
Red Flags
- The school cannot show authorisation, or the name appears nowhere on the official school search.
- “International” appears in the name but the board is CBSE or a state board with no international programme.
- Pressure to pay deposits immediately or promises of guaranteed seats.
- No written fee schedule, or different figures quoted by different staff.
- Results are not shared or are very selective.
- Large unexplained one-time or “development” charges.
- Teachers cannot explain the curriculum or assessment.
🎓 Find IB schools
Compare International Baccalaureate schools by fees, boarding and parent reviews.
How to Verify
- Check the official school search of the curriculum body.
- Speak to current parents.
- Visit on a working day.
- Compare the answers with our international schools near me guide.
Also read the admission checklist and fee guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if a school is a real IB school?
Search for it on the official IB school directory and ask the school which programmes are authorised.
Is a school with international in its name always international?
No. Check the curriculum and authorisation.
Should I pay a deposit before visiting?
No. Visit first and get everything in writing.
What if the answers are vague?
Treat that as a red flag and compare other schools.
Explore More
International Schools Near Me · International School Fees · Admission Checklist · International vs CBSE · International Boards in India
🎓 Find IB schools
Compare International Baccalaureate schools by fees, boarding and parent reviews.
