India has a number of government, semi-government and private schools in almost every part of country. Most of the schools are either affiliated with Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) or with local state boards. There are some schools that offer education on the pattern of GCE 'O' levels or IGCSE 'A' levels; one may contact the British Council for details.

Foreigners prefer to come to India for their studies because of affordable education costs and the excellent scenic beauty available there. There are some very good boarding schools on hill stations of Mussoorie, Dalhousie etc. that impart education on the British level ICSE pattern. Most of the schools offer a range of co-curricular activities like games and sports, theatre, dance and music, gymnasium and cyber cafes.

However if someone wants to come to India on the study visa then the following formalities must be taken care of:

- A letter confirming one's admission to a recognized institute must accompany the application form.
- Evidence of financial arrangements for stay in India must be given.
- A letter of Approval or NOC from the Ministry of Health, government of India is required for admission to medical or para-medical courses.
- A letter of Approval or NOC from the Ministry of HRD is required for admission to graduate or post-graduate courses in engineering/ technical institutions in India.
- The student visa is valid for the period of study in India.

Added March 2007 by Monica:
I feel your guide should mention Excelsior American School, Gurgaon - an upcoming school with an international environment and methodology . A must visit for expats because I know how much trouble I had in trying to find a good school for my children when I came to India from the US.

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