CBSE and State boards differ in terms of their syllabus, learning methods, grading system, scope, etc. Find out which is better between CBSE vs State board.
It is common for students to wonder which is better between CBSE vs State board. While CBSE focuses more on conceptual understanding, the State board concentrates on the memorisation of concepts. Let us understand the differences between the two boards to determine which is better.
Table of Contents
- CBSE vs State Board Highlights
- CBSE vs State Board Learning Methods
- CBSE vs State Board Syllabus
- CBSE vs State Board Grading System
- CBSE vs State Board Entrance Exam
- CBSE vs State Board International Scope
- CBSE vs State Board Result
- Merits and Demerits of the CBSE Board
- Merits and Demerits of the State Board
- Which is Better between CBSE and State Board?
CBSE vs State Board Highlights
Candidates can check out the overview of differences between CBSE vs State board through the table below.
| Criteria | CBSE | State Board |
| Main Focus | Focuses mainly on developing critical thinking skills and on subjects such as science and mathematics. | The curriculum of the State board involves rote learning & emphasises regional language, culture & topics. |
| Education System | In the case of CBSE, the education system is centralised across the country. | Under the State Board, the education system varies for every state. |
| Mode of Language | English & Hindi | English & regional language |
| Grading System | All the central government schools follow the CCE grading system. | The grading system differs in each state. |
| Updation of Syllabus | CBSE updates the syllabus almost every year. | The State Board follows a routine-based curriculum, and the syllabus is rarely updated. |
| Examination |
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CBSE vs State Board Learning Methods
When comparing the learning methods of CBSE vs state board, the former is better. The learning methods of CBSE help students gain an in-depth understanding of topics. Moreover, it engages students in fun activities and allows them to apply critical thinking so that they understand the topics effectively.
On the contrary, the learning methods followed in State boards involve rote learning. In this way, students are not able to get the essence of the topics. Students need to understand the concepts rather than just mugging them up.
CBSE vs State Board Syllabus
Let us discuss the syllabus of CBSE vs State board. CBSE concentrates more on subjects like Maths, Science, English, etc. In contrast, the State Board focuses on local topics, regional language, and state-level affairs.
Additionally, it is easier for students to understand the CBSE syllabus when compared to that of the State board. The CBSE syllabus also involves various practice-based questions that allow students to assess their knowledge of every topic.
CBSE vs State Board Grading System
Let us now look into the grading system of CBSE vs State board. The State board grading system differs from one state to another. In comparison, CBSE has a specific grading system that all its affiliated schools must follow. The table below shows the CBSE grading system:
| Marks Range | Grade | Grade Point |
| 91-100 | A1 | 10.0 |
| 81-90 | A2 | 9.0 |
| 71-80 | B1 | 8.0 |
| 61-70 | B2 | 7.0 |
| 51-60 | C1 | 6.0 |
| 41-50 | C2 | 5.0 |
| 33-40 | D | 4.0 |
| 21-32 | E1 | - |
| 00-20 | E2 | - |
As mentioned earlier, the grading system in State Boards differs for every state. For example, the Kerala State Board uses the following grading system:
| Grades | Marks | Description |
| A+ | 90 - Up to 100% | Outstanding |
| A | 80 - Up to 89% | Excellent |
| B+ | 70 - Up to 79% | Very Good |
| B | 60 - Up to 69% | Good |
| C+ | 50 - Up to 59% | Above Average |
| C | 40 - Up to 49% | Average |
| D+ | 30 - Up to 39% | Marginal |
| D | 20 - Up to 29% | Need Improvement |
| E | Below 20% | Need Improvement |
Therefore, the CBSE grading system is more uniform and consistent than that of the State board.
CBSE vs State Board Entrance Exam
After completing school, students generally sit for entrance exams to pursue higher studies. Students also join coaching centres to qualify for entrance exams like JEE and NEET. Since these competitive exams are based on the CBSE syllabus, CBSE students stand a better chance of cracking these exams.
Conversely, the State Board is less challenging than the CBSE board and concentrates more on regional matters. Therefore, students from the State Board find it challenging to clear the competitive exams and need to study harder.
CBSE vs State Board International Scope
A number of students wish to pursue their higher education abroad. Students from both CBSE and State boards meet the eligibility criteria to apply for studying abroad. However, CBSE students get the upper hand in this case. This is because they attend classes in the English language from Nursery and study third languages in higher classes.
On the other hand, the State board focuses only on the English language and regional levels. Therefore, between CBSE vs State boards, CBSE has a broader international scope compared to the State boards.
CBSE vs State Board Result
Under the CBSE board, students can qualify for the exams only if they understand the concepts. At the same time, the State boards include direct questions from the reference books. Hence, it becomes challenging for CBSE students to score well in the exams. Students studying under the State boards can secure higher marks in the exams.
Merits and Demerits of the CBSE Board
Check out some of the advantages of pursuing studies under the CBSE board.
- There is wide recognition and acceptance of the CBSE board around the world.
- Many important exams for higher studies are based on the CBSE syllabus due to its popularity and relevance.
- The CBSE board is student-friendly and ensures the holistic development of the student.
Following are a few disadvantages of the CBSE board.
- Students only get a few options with respect to art subjects.
- CBSE has to update the syllabus constantly to remain competitive.
Merits and Demerits of the State Board
If you are confused about whether to study under the State board, consider its advantages and disadvantages. Following are the benefits of studying in the State board.
- The tuition fees in schools affiliated with the State Board are affordable. So if you are looking for an economical study option, then it is ideal.
- Since the curriculum under the State Board is relatively easy, students can easily secure higher marks.
There are certain demerits of State boards as well. Here are some of them:
- Most State boards use outdated learning methods, and their syllabi are rarely updated.
- State board schools that include state-mandated curriculums lack quality teachers.
- Generally, schools under the State boards have a huge number of students in a class. It hampers the learning and growth of the students.
Which is Better between CBSE and State Board?
We cannot say which is better among the CBSE vs State Board. However, it entirely depends on the career goals and priorities of the students. CBSE is a better choice for students interested in pursuing engineering or medical courses. Both boards have merits and demerits, so students must consider all the factors to make the right choice.
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