Hey there! Ever found yourself deep-diving into the world of schools, trying to fish out the perfect one? Well, you’re in luck! Yellow Slate has scoured the lengths and breadths of educational landscapes to bring you the crème de la crème of schools, each with its unique flavor. From the serene hills of Shimla to the vibrant vibes of Patiala, we’ve got the scoop on what makes these institutions more than just buildings with classrooms. So, buckle up as we take you on a whirlwind tour through some of the most sought-after schools, where dreams are nurtured, and futures are carved.
1.Saraswati Vidya Mandir
Tucked away in the quaint village of Anji, Vikasnagar, this gem of a school sprang to life in 1988, thanks to the visionary Himachal Shiksha Samiti. From its early days in a cozy rented spot, it quickly leveled up to its own cool digs by 1993. Fast forward to 2003, and it’s rocking the CBSE vibe, offering a full spectrum of learning from Nursery to 10+2.
- Location: Saraswati Vidya MandirHim Rashmi Parisar Vikas Nagar Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Pin – 171009
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: Kindergarten to 12th Grade
- Website: Saraswati Vidya Mandir
- Email: info@svmhmr.org
- Facilities: State-of-the-art classrooms, science and computer labs, library, sports facilities, and cultural activity centers.
Fee Structure
Admission Process
- Fill out the Admission Form linked on the website and pay the non-refundable registration fees.
- Entrance Tests/Interviews are conducted in August and sometimes in December.
- Admission offers are subject to availability and are based on the performance in written tests/interviews, at the sole discretion of the school.
2. Bishop Cotton School
Bishop Cotton in Shimla is where the vibe of a 21st-century Indian school meets some cool British legacy, all while keeping an eye on the global scene. Picture this: founded back in 1859 by the visionary Bishop George Edward Lynch Cotton, this place is all about that crisp, clean Shimla air that just screams healthy living and daily sports action.
Classes here? Super cozy with just 20 peeps, making sure everyone gets that extra bit of attention they need through tutorials and remedials.
- Location: Shimla Bypass, Near Khalini, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171002, India
- Curriculum: ICSE, ISC
- Class Level: 3rd to 12th Grade
- Website: Bishop Cotton School
- Email: headmaster@bishopcotton.com
- Facilities: Historic campus, extensive sports fields, modern science and computer labs, library, and boarding facilities.
Fee Structure
- Admission Fee : Rs. 65,000/-
- Caution Money : Rs. 3,00,000/- (Refundable)
- School Fee Class 4–9 : Rs. 7,10,000/- Per Annum
- School Fee Class 11-12 : Rs. 7,60,000/- Per Annum
| S.No. | Class (4 – 9) | Class 11 | Remarks | |
| A | Admission fee | Rs. 65,000/- | Rs. 65,000/- | 1st Term payable (A+B+C+D) |
| B | Caution money (Rs 25000/- will be deducted towards the OCA Lifelong Membership fee. The Balance Rs. 2.75 lacs will be refunded at the time of leaving school.) | Rs. 3,00,000/- | Rs 3,00,000/- | class 4-10 Rs. 7,90,000/- |
| C | Imprest Account(Advance against personal billing) | Rs. 80,000/- | Rs. 80,000/- | |
| D | 1st Term Fee | Rs. 4,10,000/- | Rs. 4,60,000/- | class 11 Rs. 8,35,000/- |
| | | | | |
| E | 2nd Term Fee | Rs. 3,00,000/- | Rs. 3,00,000/- | 2nd Term payable Rs. 3,00,000/- |
| | TOTAL | Rs. 11,55,000/- | Rs. 12,05,000/- | |
Admission Process
- Application Initiation: Prospective students and their guardians are encouraged to commence the application process by clicking the APPLY button found on the school’s official website. This digital initiation is the gateway to the entrance examination.
- School’s Offering: The institution opens its doors to boys from Class 4 to Class 12, providing a robust boarding school environment that fosters growth and learning.
- Examination Centers: For the 2025 academic year, the school has scheduled its entrance tests in Shimla on 7th September 2024, followed by Delhi on 14th September 2024, Mumbai on 21st September 2024, and a to-be-confirmed date in Kolkata.
- Admissions Procedure: The admissions process involves a written English composition and a Maths test for Junior and Middle School candidates, aimed at assessing their competencies. Individual interviews conducted in English provide a platform for students to share their aspirations and for the school to gauge their potential.
3. Auckland House School
Auckland House School in Shimla is a journey through history with a modern twist. Founded in 1866, this all-girls haven was once a cozy lodge before transforming into the bustling hub of learning it is today. With a legacy tied to the British era, it’s a place where small classes, personalized tutorials, and a plethora of co-curricular activities shape well-rounded, global citizens. From sports days to eco-friendly initiatives and even scuba diving, Auckland House is all about blending tradition with innovation. It’s where girls from all corners of the globe come to grow, learn, and chase their dreams under the motto “Seek the Higher Things.
- Location: 455H+7PC, Circular Road, Longwood, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
- Curriculum: ICSE, ISC
- Class Level: Nursery to 12th Grade
- Website: Auckland House School
- Email: info@aucklandhouseschool.org
- Facilities: Historic buildings, modern classrooms, science and IT labs, sports facilities, and a well-stocked library.
Admission Process
- Fill out the Admission Form.
- If a child withdraws and seeks readmission, it will be treated as a new admission.
- Entrance Tests/Interviews
- Admission offers are subject to availability and are based on the performance in written tests/interviews, at the sole discretion of the school.
Fee Structure
| Nursery to Form 5 | | | | |
| Fee Head | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Total |
| Tuition Fee | 16676 | 16676 | 16676 | 50028 |
| Smart Class | | 1000 | | 1000 |
| SMS | 350 | | | 350 |
| Annual Charges | 3000 | | | 3000 |
| Miscellaneous Charges | | 3000 | | 3000 |
| Sub Total | 20026 | 20676 | 16676 | 57378 |
| Computer Fee (Where Applicable) | 2000 | | | 2000 |
| TOTAL | 22026 | 20676 | 16676 | 59378 |
| Form 6 to Form 10 | | | | |
| Fee Head | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Total |
| Tuition Fee | 16676 | 16676 | 16676 | 50028 |
| Smart Class | | 1000 | | 1000 |
| SMS | 350 | | | 350 |
| Annual Charges | 3000 | | | 3000 |
| Miscellaneous Charges | | 3500 | | 3500 |
| Sub Total | 20026 | 21176 | 16676 | 57878 |
| Computer Fee (Where Applicable) | 2000 | | | 2000 |
| TOTAL | 22026 | 21176 | 16676 | 59878 |
| Form 11 & 12 (Science) | | | | |
| Fee Head | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Total |
| Tuition Fee | 22600 | 22600 | 22600 | 67800 |
| Smart Class | | 1000 | | 1000 |
| SMS | 350 | | | 350 |
| Annual Charges | 3000 | | | 3000 |
| Miscellaneous Charges | | 3500 | | 3500 |
| Sub Total | 25950 | 27100 | 22600 | 75650 |
| Computer Fee (Where Applicable) | 2000 | | | 2000 |
| TOTAL | 27950 | 27100 | 22600 | 77650 |
| Form 11 & 12 (Commerce and Arts) | | | | |
| Fee Head | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Total |
| Tuition Fee | 21220 | 21220 | 21220 | 63660 |
| Smart Class | | 1000 | | 1000 |
| SMS | 350 | | | 350 |
| Annual Charges | 3000 | | | 3000 |
| Miscellaneous Charges | | 3500 | | 3500 |
| Sub Total | 24570 | 25720 | 21220 | 71510 |
| Computer Fee (Where Applicable) | 2000 | | | 2000 |
| TOTAL | 26570 | 25720 | 21220 | 73510 |
4. Roots Country School
Roots Country School, established by Mr. Sunil Rohta and Mrs. Kirti Rohta in 2003, stands out in the Shimla hills as a center of innovative learning. The school has made a significant mark by securing a spot in The Limca Book of World Records with 130 Karate Black Belts awarded in a single day. At Roots, the educational approach breaks through conventional barriers, adopting the LEAD curriculum that integrates diverse learning methodologies from Nursery to 8th grade. The campus boasts smart classrooms, an exclusive movie theater, and a trophy-winning NCC contingent.
- Location: Trimount View, P.O. Baghi, Teh, Kotkhai, Himachal Pradesh 171225
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: 1st to 12th Grade
- Website: Roots Country School
- Email: contact@rootscountryschool.com
- Facilities: Eco-friendly campus, smart classrooms, laboratories, sports complex, and art and music rooms.
Admission Process
- Direct Admissions for Class X and XII: Students seeking direct admission to these classes need to provide a notarized affidavit explaining the reason for changing schools. This is crucial for maintaining transparency and understanding the student’s educational background.
- Application Process: Interested candidates can obtain application forms for both registration and admission from the school office. This step is the starting point of the admission journey.
- Board Transfers: For students coming from non-CBSE boards, securing a migration certificate is a prerequisite. This ensures a smooth transition between different educational systems.
- Documentation for Younger Students: Admission to Class Nr (presumably nursery or a similar initial class) requires a birth certificate from a recognized authority like the panchayat secretary.
- Transferring Students: Those transferring from other schools must submit essential documents including a transfer or school leaving certificate and a progress report from their previous institution. This helps the new school understand the student’s academic background.
- Fresh Admissions: First-time students need to provide a birth certificate from a local competent authority, establishing their age and identity.
- Registration and Admission: While registration is a preliminary step, it doesn’t guarantee admission. The principal has the final say in admissions, ensuring that decisions are made in the school’s and students’ best interests.
- Attendance Policy: Maintaining a 75% attendance rate is compulsory. Falling short of this requirement may disqualify a student from participating in examinations, emphasizing the importance of regular attendance.
- Entrance Test: A fee of Rs. 2000, covering the entrance test and the prospectus, is required. This test, which can also be taken online, is a critical part of the admission process, assessing the applicant’s readiness for the school’s academic environment.
Fee Structure
Amount to be deposited at Admission Confirmation for Boarder’s Rs.50000/·and for Day-Scholars is Rs. 13500/-
5. Dagshai Public School
Dagshai Public School spreads out over 25 acres, mixing old-world charm with wide-open spaces for play. It’s got cozy hostels for boys and girls, making sure everyone’s got a place that feels like home. The coolest spot? The main academic block, perched with a view that’ll make your jaw drop – a full 270 degrees of pure scenic beauty.
But here’s the kicker – the school’s all about keeping things personal with a low teacher-student ratio. It means every kid gets the attention they deserve, making learning not just effective but super engaging. Welcome to Dagshai Public School, where every day’s an adventure in learning and growing!
- Location: Dagshai Public School, Dagshai Cantt, Distt Solan
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: Nursery to 12th Grade
- Website: Dagshai Public School
- Email: dpsdagshai@gmail.com
- Facilities: Sprawling campus, modern classrooms, science and IT labs, sports facilities, and a comprehensive library.
Admission Process
- Age Group Admissions: The school opens its doors wide from LKG (Lower Kindergarten) all the way to Class XI, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment. However, it’s noteworthy that admissions are not available for Class X and XII, maintaining the integrity and continuity of the academic cycle.
- Campus Visits: Before diving into paperwork, the school encourages a more personal approach. Parents and guardians are invited to schedule a visit, offering a real feel of the school’s ambiance, facilities, and the overall learning environment, ensuring it’s the right fit for their child.
- Online Registration: The digital era simplifies the initial step – registration. A convenient online form kickstarts the journey, coupled with a modest examination fee of Rs 1000, making the process accessible from the comfort of home.
- Entrance Assessment: The entrance test varies by grade level: For the youngest applicants in LKG to UKG, the focus is on an oral interaction, making it a stress-free experience for the little ones.
- Students from Class I to V dive into English and Maths for a 1.5-hour evaluation, while those aiming for Class VI to XI are tested in English, Maths, and Science over a 2-hour session, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each child’s capabilities.
Fee Structure
6. Apollo Public School
Apollo Public School Was established in the year 1999, has now grown to a Co-educational Day & Boarding School. The school is recognized by the Directorate of Education, Government of Punjab and affiliated to Central Board of Secondary Education.
It is spread over 6 acres of beautifully designed and landscaped campus which is a visual delight. The location of the school is such that the approach towards it is more convenient and simple in all respects and there are no congested roads or traffic problems.
- Location: Urban Estate Phase I, Urban Estate, Patiala, Punjab 147002
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: Nursery to 12th Grade
- Website: Apollo Public School
- Email: info@apollopublicschool.com
- Facilities: Modern infrastructure, digital classrooms, science and computer labs, sports arenas, and an extensive library.
Admission Process
The admission process at the school is concise and designed to be parent-friendly:
- Submit the Admission Form: Parents start by filling out the Admission Form available on the school’s website and paying a non-refundable registration fee.
- Entrance Assessments: Candidates undergo entrance tests or interviews.
- Admission Decision: Based on the entrance assessment results and availability of seats, the school makes admission offers at its discretion.
Fee Structure
7. Ivy International School – Shimla
Ivy International School is where learning meets freedom. It’s a place that ditches the grade race for a joy-filled education journey. Here, students are in the driver’s seat, navigating through a world-class curriculum that’s just a click away, anytime, anywhere.
Dreaming of studying amidst whispering pines and deodars? Ivy’s got you covered with cozy hostels and a canvas for your future. It’s more than a school; it’s where you gear up to meet global standards, all while soaking in the serene vibes of nature. Ready for the Ivy experience?
- Location: Ivy City, P.O Kamlanagar (Bhattakufar), Shimla (HP), PIN – 171006
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: Pre-Nursery to 12th Grade
- Website: Ivy International School
- Email: ivyinternationalschool@gmail.com
- Facilities: International standard campus, smart classrooms, advanced labs, sports complex, and performing arts center.
Admission Process
The school’s admission process for the academic year 2024-25 is now open for Nursery to Class XI. Here’s a concise overview:
- No Entry Test for Nursery: Admissions into Nursery are straightforward without any entry test, focusing on a gentle introduction to schooling.
- Written Test and Interview: From Class I upwards, candidates undergo a written assessment and a personal interview to gauge their suitability and readiness.
- Inquiries: Parents interested in more details can reach out via email at admissions@ivyshimla.com or directly contact the Admission Coordinators for comprehensive guidance.
Fee Structure
8. Laureate Public School
Laureate Shimla, established in 1993, is a top CBSE boarding school nestled in the Himalayas. With a focus on holistic development, it offers a nurturing environment from nursery to 12th grade. Under the leadership of the award-winning Dr. Meera Singh, the school excels in academics, sports, and extracurriculars, fostering a growth mindset and strong values in students. Recognized for its quality education and vibrant campus life, Laureate Shimla is where young minds are shaped for future success.
- Location: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: Nursery to 12th Grade
- Website: Laureate Public School
- Email: laureatepublicschool@gmail.com
- Facilities: Contemporary campus, digital classrooms, science and IT labs, sports facilities, and arts and music rooms.
School Highlights
- Laureate Public School is Shimla’s top CBSE boarding school.
- Dedicated to shaping future leaders with a 100% success rate in board exams.
- Classrooms equipped with modern facilities for an enhanced learning experience.
- State-of-the-art labs with computers, internet, and digital boards.
- Emphasis on innovation with expert-driven, advanced learning methods.
Admission Process
- Admission seekers for Grades 6 to 9 have an interaction and a written test in the school. Testing is based on Basic English and Mathematics. Grade 9, students will also be assessed for Integrated Science (PCB).
- Students are only taken into Grade Xth, if they are transferring from a similar Board and their admission is based on reports from their existing school and an interaction and test.
- Admission to Grade XI this by interaction and written tests in English, Mathematics and Science. The candidates should demonstrate the ability to meet the requirements of the Board.
- In Grade 12 only transferring Students are admitted.
Fee Structure
9. Pinegrove School
Admission Process
Age Criteria:
- Admission typically starts from Class II for children aged 7 by a specific date, with each subsequent grade corresponding to an additional year of age.
Required Documents for Registration:
- Admission form, registration fee, photographs, Aadhar and PAN cards of parents, birth certificate, academic records, and for Plus-2 students, additional academic records.
Additional Documents for Admission:
- School leaving/transfer certificate, report card of the last passed class, medical fitness certificate, and for NRI students, visa, passport, local guardian acceptance, and emergency authorization letters.
Fee Structure
- RESIDENT INDIANS Recurring (Annual)
Annual Fees for Boarders Rs. 6,60,000.00 - Winter Study Camp Fee Class X (Optional) Rs. 60,000
Winter Study Camp Fee Class XII Rs. 80,000 - NON RECURRING (For New Admissions Only)
Registration Fees Rs. 7,500
Caution Money/Security (Refundable) Rs. 25,000
Admission Fee Rs. 50,000 - NON RESIDENT INDIANS/FOREIGNERS Recurring (Annual)
Annual Fees US$ 8,000 - NON-RECURRING (For New Admissions only)
Admission US$ 2,000
Registration US$ 250
10. DAV Senior Secondary Public School
DAV Sr. Sec Public School in Lakkar Bazar, Shimla, stands as a beacon of educational excellence amidst the majestic Himalayas. With a mission to offer holistic education and a vision that marries Vedic wisdom with a scientific mindset, this institution is shaping the model citizens of tomorrow. The school boasts a vibrant, caring environment where students are encouraged to unlock their full potential. From airy classrooms and state-of-the-art labs to a rich library and dynamic sports facilities, every corner is designed to spark curiosity and foster growth. With smart boards and a dedicated staff, learning here is not just effective but exciting, ensuring every student is on a path to success and ready to conquer the world with knowledge and confidence.
- Location: Lakkar Bazar Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Class Level: Nursery to 12th Grade
- Website: DAV Senior Secondary Public School
- Email: davlkbshimla@gmail.com
Fee Structure
Admission Process
The Admission Form, available on the school’s website, must be completed and accompanied by the payment of non-refundable registration fees. In instances where a child withdraws and later seeks readmission, the process is regarded as a new admission. The school schedules Entrance Tests/Interviews. Offers for admission are contingent upon available spots and hinge on the candidate’s performance in the written tests/interviews, with the final decision resting solely with the school.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! A sneak peek into some of the finest schools that could very well be the launching pads for the leaders of tomorrow. Whether it’s the holistic approach of DAV Sr. Sec Public School in Shimla or the innovative learning environment at Roots Country School, each institution brings something unique to the table. Remember, choosing a school is about finding a place that resonates with your aspirations and values, a space where you or your little ones can spread their wings. So, take your time, do your homework, and who knows, the next chapter of your educational journey might just begin at one of these stellar schools. Happy school hunting!