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| Board | Key Dates | Fee Range/Year | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMC / Municipal Schools | March–June (Std 1 onwards) | Free | Visit nearest BMC school |
| SSC (Maharashtra Board) | April–June admissions | ₹5,000–₹40,000/year | School directly, RTE portal for 25% |
| ICSE Board | Nov–Jan (for next year) | ₹40,000–₹1,50,000/year | School directly — very competitive |
| CBSE Board | Nov–Feb (for next year) | ₹30,000–₹1,20,000/year | School directly or school website |
| International (IB/Cambridge) | Year-round, school-specific | ₹2,00,000–₹10,00,000/year | School directly — entrance test |
Under the Right to Education Act, 25% of seats in all unaided private schools must go to children from economically weaker sections — completely free, reimbursed by state government. Apply via rte25.maharashtra.gov.in. Competition is high — apply early.
Mumbai is home to some of India's finest educational institutions — IIT Bombay (Powai), TISS (Deonar), SNDT Women's University, University of Mumbai, Narsee Monjee, SP Jain, JBIMS and dozens more. At the school level, Mumbai has the country's largest BMC school network (1,200+ schools) alongside elite private schools in Bandra, Powai and South Mumbai. Understanding Mumbai's education ecosystem — boards, admissions, coaching and scholarships — is critical for every family in the city.
SSC (Maharashtra State Board) is the most widely understood locally and provides the best preparation for Maharashtra professional entrance exams (MHT-CET, MPSC). CBSE is better for students targeting national competitive exams (JEE, NEET). ICSE develops strong English and analytical skills. The "right" board depends on where you live, your school quality, and your child's career aspirations — not the board brand itself.