How is CBSE Different from NCERT?

When it comes to the Indian education system, you often hear two main terms: CBSE and NCERT. Many students and parents get confused about how these two are different or how they work together. While they both play important roles in the education system in India, CBSE and NCERT have distinct purposes. In this blog, we'll break down what CBSE and NCERT actually do, how they differ, and how they work together to shape the learning experience for students.

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1. What is CBSE?

CBSE, or the Central Board of Secondary Education, is one of India’s most popular school boards. Here’s a bit about its structure and purpose:

  • Role: CBSE is a national-level educational board that is responsible for regulating and managing public and private schools in India.
  • Exams: CBSE organizes exams for Classes 10 and 12, which are crucial steps for students' academic and professional futures.
  • School Affiliation: Schools across the country and even outside of India can be affiliated with CBSE, as long as they meet the board’s guidelines.
  • Syllabus: CBSE prescribes its own curriculum that aligns with various competitive exams like NEET and JEE, helping students prepare better for these exams.

2. What is NCERT?

NCERT, or the National Council of Educational Research and Training, is an organization set up by the Government of India. NCERT has a slightly different role compared to CBSE:

  • Role: NCERT’s primary responsibility is to design and publish textbooks for schools. These books are meant to be the main learning resources for students in India.
  • Educational Research: NCERT focuses on research, development, and educational planning, creating guidelines and materials for teachers and students alike.
  • Textbook Authority: Most schools, especially CBSE-affiliated ones, use NCERT textbooks, which are created following national education policies.

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3. Key Differences Between CBSE and NCERT

Though both CBSE and NCERT are closely linked in India's education system, they differ in several important ways:

Aspect CBSE NCERT
Type of Organization Education Board Educational Research Institution
Main Role Conducts exams, affiliates schools, sets curriculum Publishes textbooks, conducts research
Scope Manages schools and conducts board exams Provides learning material and teaching aids
Examinations Holds Class 10 and Class 12 exams Does not conduct exams
Primary Output Guidelines for exams, school regulations Textbooks, teacher training, research
Focus Broad educational policies Depth of subject knowledge and pedagogy

 

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4. CBSE Sets Exams, NCERT Writes the Books

One of the primary distinctions between CBSE and NCERT is their approach to exams and textbooks:

  • CBSE’s Role in Exams: CBSE prepares question papers and conducts the main school-leaving exams. It sets guidelines for evaluation and grading to maintain a standard.
  • NCERT’s Role in Textbooks: NCERT prepares textbooks based on the syllabus prescribed by CBSE for classes from 1 to 12. These textbooks cover all the topics that CBSE requires for each grade, ensuring a uniform learning standard.

5. Why CBSE Prefers NCERT Books

Most CBSE schools use NCERT textbooks. There are several reasons for this:

  • Uniformity in Education: By using NCERT books, CBSE ensures that all students receive the same foundational education across the country.
  • Competitive Exam Preparation: NCERT books are concise and cover core concepts that are essential for exams like JEE, NEET, and UPSC, making them highly relevant for students.
  • Government Standards: NCERT books are published based on national educational policies and are reviewed regularly to stay updated with new learning methodologies and scientific developments.

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6. Can CBSE Schools Use Non-NCERT Books?

Yes, CBSE allows schools to use other books for reference, but the main curriculum is still based on NCERT textbooks. Some schools may include extra resources to help students grasp advanced concepts, but for the majority of the subjects, NCERT books are preferred and even required.

7. How CBSE and NCERT Work Together

CBSE and NCERT function closely together to shape the educational journey of students in CBSE-affiliated schools:

  • Curriculum Development: CBSE often consults NCERT while developing its syllabus to ensure it aligns with the textbooks NCERT publishes.
  • Teacher Training: NCERT conducts training programs for teachers based on CBSE’s curriculum, helping them use NCERT books effectively and prepare students for CBSE exams.
  • Policy Implementation: When new education policies or changes are introduced, CBSE and NCERT collaborate to update the syllabus, textbooks, and teaching methods, ensuring students receive an education that meets modern standards.

8. Why Understanding the Difference Matters

For students and parents, knowing the difference between CBSE and NCERT can help in making informed decisions about education:

  • Curriculum Choice: Students aiming for competitive exams might prefer CBSE due to its alignment with exam patterns, while NCERT books provide a strong conceptual base.
  • Consistency Across States: NCERT books are a standard resource, which makes it easier for students who move between states to adjust to the syllabus.
  • Educational Planning: Understanding the roles of both CBSE and NCERT can help parents and students focus on the right resources, whether it’s choosing study materials, preparing for exams, or even selecting schools.

FAQs

Yes, CBSE schools may use other reference books, but NCERT books are usually the main resource.

 

Some state boards also use NCERT books, as they are based on the National Curriculum Framework, which makes them suitable for a wide audience.

 

CBSE exams primarily follow NCERT books for setting exam papers, but questions may test understanding beyond rote learning.

 

Both exams base many questions on the concepts covered in NCERT books, making CBSE students well-prepared if they study NCERT content.

 

No, CBSE exams are only for students enrolled in CBSE-affiliated schools.

 

CBSE provides syllabus guidelines, but NCERT decides how to cover these topics in their textbooks.

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