In a surprising turn of events, a growing number of students who complete their matriculation under the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) or ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) boards are shifting to state syllabus Pre-University (PU) colleges for their higher secondary education in Karnataka. Despite the steady increase in enrollments in CBSE and ICSE schools, data shows that approximately 12% of PU students in the state have completed their grade 10 under these national boards, opting for state syllabus colleges post-matriculation.
This trend can be attributed to several key factors, including the state syllabus offering a more integrated learning approach and a lighter academic load. The state curriculum is seen as a better fit for students preparing for competitive exams, which has made it a preferred option. Educationists have pointed out that the state syllabus provides a more flexible structure, allowing students to balance regular academics with coaching for entrance exams like NEET and JEE.
A significant draw of the state syllabus is the integrated coaching system it offers, particularly within PU colleges. Unlike CBSE and ICSE, which focus more on academic subjects and give less emphasis to coaching for competitive exams, the state syllabus provides an environment where both academic learning and entrance exam preparation are combined under one roof. A principal from a CBSE school explained, “Many students shift to the state curriculum post-SSLC because integrated coaching under one roof is not given much importance in CBSE and ICSE systems.”
The trend also reflects the rising influence of private coaching systems that are integrated with state PU colleges, making them a more attractive choice for students aiming for competitive exams. Many PU colleges in Karnataka are now recognized for providing a holistic educational solution that blends regular classes with targeted coaching for exams like NEET and JEE.
Furthermore, the steady increase in CBSE and ICSE enrollments in recent years indicates a growing preference for these curricula. From the academic year 2020-21 to 2024-25, CBSE enrollment in Karnataka is projected to rise by 53%, while ICSE enrollment is expected to grow by 41%. However, despite these increases, many students seem to prefer the state syllabus for their higher secondary education, especially when it comes to preparing for competitive exams.
In conclusion, the shift from CBSE and ICSE to state syllabus PU colleges in Karnataka can be attributed to the state curriculum’s emphasis on integrated coaching and exam preparation. As students continue to prioritize competitive exams in their educational journey, state syllabus colleges are becoming the go-to choice for a growing number of students.
