Top 10 Best Schools in Maharashtra for Admission 2025–26

Last Updated on September 7, 2025 by admin

Finding the right school in Maharashtra can feel overwhelming. Parents often ask: Which school is the best for my child? Should I choose CBSE, ICSE, IB, or State Board? What are the fees? When should I apply for admission?

This guide answers all these questions in a clear, research-driven, and practical way. It’s designed for parents who want a school that balances academics, co-curricular, values, and future opportunities.

We’ll not only list the top 10 schools in Maharashtra for 2025–26 but also explain their curriculum, fees, admission process, and unique strengths—helping you make an informed decision.

Quick Snapshot of Maharashtra’s Best Schools

(Fee ranges are approximate and should be verified with each school.)

Detailed Explanation of Each Top School

Here’s a deep dive into each school—covering curriculum, facilities, admission process, and what makes it stand out.

1. The Cathedral & John Connon School, Mumbai

• Board: ICSE (till Grade 10), ISC (Grades 11–12)

• Why It’s Famous:

  • Founded in 1860, it’s one of India’s oldest and most prestigious schools.

  • Consistently ranks among the top ICSE schools in India.

  • Strong focus on extracurriculars like debating, dramatics, and music.

• Facilities: Modern classrooms, sports complexes, cultural halls.

• Admission: Apply online; shortlisted students go through interviews and assessments.

• Best For: Parents seeking a balance of tradition, discipline, and academic excellence.

2. Dhirubhai Ambani International School, Mumbai

• Board: IB (PYP, MYP, DP), IGCSE

• Highlights:

  • Known as one of India’s No. 1 international schools.

  • Offers world-class IB curriculum that prepares students for Ivy League and UK universities.

  • Advanced infrastructure: digital labs, global-standard classrooms.

• Admission: Application, written test, and interview. High competition for seats.

• Best For: Parents looking for global exposure and international opportunities.

3. Symbiosis International School, Pune

• Board: IB (Primary to Diploma), IGCSE

• Highlights:

  • Connected with Symbiosis International University, offering global ties.

  • Popular among expat families in Pune.

  • Focus on inquiry-based learning and international exchanges.

• Facilities: Green campus, tech-enabled classrooms, Model United Nations programs.

• Best For: Parents seeking affordable IB education with global exposure.

4. St. Mary’s School, Pune

• Board: ICSE

• Highlights:

  • Established in 1866; one of the most respected schools in India.

  • Known for its discipline, values, and holistic learning approach.

• Facilities: Spacious campus, labs, focus on arts and sports.

• Best For: Parents who want heritage-rich education with affordable fees.

5. Podar International School (Multiple Cities)

• Board: CBSE, ICSE, IB, IGCSE (branch-dependent)

• Highlights:

  • Network of 140+ schools across India.

  • Digital learning platforms, STEM-based teaching, and robotics labs.

  • Known for standardizing high-quality education across branches.

• Best For: Parents who value consistency and access to multiple boards under one brand.

6. Delhi Public School (DPS), Nagpur

• Board: CBSE

• Highlights:

  • CBSE-focused curriculum with emphasis on board exam preparation and Olympiads.

  • Strong record in sports and cultural competitions.

• Best For: Parents seeking affordable CBSE schools with good academic results.

7. UWC Mahindra College, Pune (Paud)

• Board: IB Diploma Programme (Boarding only)

• Highlights:

  • A part of the global United World Colleges (UWC) movement.

  • Students from 60+ countries study here.

  • Heavy focus on leadership, sustainability, and community service.

• Fees: Among the highest in India but scholarships available.

• Best For: Parents seeking elite IB boarding school with global diversity.

8. Sanjeewan Vidyalaya, Panchgani

• Board: ICSE/ISC

• Highlights:

  • Located in the hills of Panchgani.

  • Values discipline, character-building, and outdoor learning.

• Best For: Families preferring boarding schools with traditional values.

9. Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan’s School, Nashik

• Board: CBSE

• Highlights:

  • Affordable CBSE option with strong cultural grounding.

  • Focuses on academics + Indian heritage activities like dance, music, and language.

• Best For: Parents looking for value-based education at a reasonable cost.

10. Orchids The International School (Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur)

• Board: CBSE/ICSE

• Highlights:

  • Known for its tech-forward teaching—coding, robotics, AI-based learning tools.

  • Multiple branches across Maharashtra.

• Best For: Parents seeking modern, digital-first education.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a School

1. Curriculum (Board Choice)

   • CBSE → Best for engineering/medical prep.

   • ICSE/ISC → Strong in English and all-rounded academics.

   • IB/IGCSE → Ideal for global university admissions.

   • State Board → Affordable, local focus.

2. Fees

   • Ranges from ₹70,000/year (affordable CBSE schools) to ₹25 lakh/year (elite IB boarding schools).

3. Location

   • Mumbai & Pune → International + heritage schools.

   • Panchgani → Boarding hubs.

   • Nashik/Nagpur → Affordable CBSE and ICSE schools.

4. Facilities

   • Check for labs, libraries, sports grounds, robotics clubs, etc.

5. Admission Process

   • Applications open Oct–Feb for most schools.

   • Documents: Birth certificate, address proof, previous school reports.

   • Entrance tests/interviews may apply.

Why Maharashtra is India’s Education Hub

• Historic schools like Cathedral & St. Mary’s.

• Global schools like DAIS, Symbiosis, and UWC.

• Boarding clusters in Panchgani, Lonavala.

• Strong urban centers (Mumbai, Pune) with access to IB, IGCSE, and CBSE boards.

This makes Maharashtra a diverse and attractive destination for school education.

Conclusion

Every parent wants the best start for their child. Maharashtra offers a wide choice—from affordable CBSE schools to elite IB international institutions.

To decide:

• Match the school’s curriculum with your child’s future path.

• Consider budget and location.

• Apply early (Oct–Feb).

• Visit campuses if possible.

With the right research, you can ensure your child gets an education that is future-ready, values-driven, and globally competitive.

FAQs (About Schools in Maharashtra)

Q1. Which is the No. 1 school in Maharashtra?

Dhirubhai Ambani International School and The Cathedral & John Connon School consistently rank at the top.

Q2. What are the fees for top schools in Maharashtra?

Fees range from ₹70,000/year (CBSE schools) to ₹25 lakh/year (elite IB boarding schools).

Q3. Which city in Maharashtra has the best schools?

Mumbai and Pune are hubs for top ICSE, CBSE, and IB schools. Panchgani is popular for boarding.

Q4. When do school admissions open in Maharashtra?

Most schools open admission forms between October and February for the next academic year.

Q5. Do Maharashtra schools offer IB and IGCSE?

Yes, many international schools in Mumbai and Pune, like DAIS and Symbiosis, offer IB and IGCSE curricula.