What is the Difference between an International and a Private School?

When choosing a school for your child, there are many considerations. Two of the most sought after options are international schools and private schools. While both categories of schools provide quality education, they have certain differences.



This article will highlight the distinction between an international and a private school as well as help you understand which one is appropriate for your child.
International Schools
International schools aim to give students with diverse backgrounds a global education. Such schools follow internationally recognised curriculums like International Baccalaureate (I or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). The aim of this curriculum is to be demanding and rigorous to prepare students for success in rapidly changing times.


One major difference between an international school and a private one lies in its curriculum. On the contrary, while private institutions may have less comprehensive programs that favour local cultures, international ones do not focus on any particular locale or nation’s background.
International facilities usually have more varied populations made up of students from different countries and cultures. This provides learners with opportunities to appreciate alternative customs and points of view thus developing their thinking towards globalisation.
The other key difference between international and private schools comes in language use during teaching processes. Most often than not, private institutions teach in one language such as indigenous languages while intercontinental schools tend to use several languages including English which serves as the language of instruction mainly.


Private Schools


On the other hand, Private Schools are designed to offer high-quality education to children from specific regions or communities only. These systems mostly follow curriculums tailored particularly for locals hence more emphasis on local culture and heritage may be witnessed among them.
Private institutions tend to admit youths from specific regions or communities thereby promoting communalism among them leading them to develop stronger social ties with their colleagues.
One important difference among private and international schools is the level of competition present. Private schools are more competitive as students compete for grades and admission to top institutions. Conversely, International schools tend to stress on cooperation and working together.

International Vs Private School: Which One To Choose?

So, which is better for your child? And the answer is both! or partly depends on the region you are living in. Let me explain. If your child has heavily tipped toward the chance to take part in a 'global' education, and/or is attracted to a diverse and challenging learning environment, then consider an international school. International schools are the best way to provide your child with a unique opportunity to develop a global mindset, and to prepare them for a dynamic and changing future. On the other hand, if your child wishes to take part in a more traditional education with emphasis on local culture and traditions, you might want to opt for a private school, which delivers students a philosophical sense of community, and also a sense of belonging to a community, which in turn can support them develop strong relationships with their friends and peers.

International or Private School: Which One?
To take into consideration the benefits of both of the above mentioned schools, international and private – there are important things to consider before making a final decision. Below are a few important points to keep in mind.

* Curriculum: What type of curriculum does the school follows? After all, a school's coursework may be international, local or national in scope and standard.
* Student body: What kind of student attends the school? A diverse student body, or a homogeneous one?
* Language of instruction: What language is used for describing a subjects matter? Is it English, or maybe another language.
* Level of competitiveness: Is the school considered competitive, or is it more into whole-heartedly collaboration and team work!

Sancta Maria International School Faridabad is a private school with an international twist. Our school employs the CBSE syllabus which is globally accepted and offers students a tough and demanding education system. We have students from many different nations and cultures in our school. The medium of instruction in our school is English.


We believe that there should be more to education than just the academic phase, hence we offer other activities like sports for students’ talent development. Our instructors are knowledgeable and experienced leaders committed to student success.

If you want a school that offers excellent education, with an emphasis on internationalism and community development, Sancta Maria International School Faridabad may be the right choice for your child. Reach us now to know more about our school and plan for a trip around it.