Parents' guide to homeschooling children in India
The Indian government acknowledges every child’s Right to Education. The Indian judicial system cannot make any provisions against homeschooling or any other learning system as the right to education is a constitutional one. But what is homeschooling and in what way is it different from studying in an established school?
What is homeschooling in India?
Homeschooling is a system where a child studies at home under the guidance of parents and / or teachers without enrolling in any school formally. Homeschooling is a serious matter. It means the child will follow graded syllabi, learn multiple subjects, maybe even take skill-oriented training, and go for higher studies like any other kid.
Can homeschooled children attend board exams?
In one word, yes. Homeschooled kids can attend board exams as private students. Parents need to prepare them just as well as any other student, and ensure that all forms registering them as private students are filled in and submitted on time. Mumbai and Pune have a large number of homeschooled kids. On the 10th of January, 2019 the Maharashtra government made a law declaring homeschooling legally acceptable in the state. The government also fixed age limits: students can clear Class 5 only after 10 years of age, Class 8 at minimum 13, and Class 10 not before 15 years of age. Karnataka government also has similar age regulations.
Are there boards specially for homeschooling?
Once again, the answer is yes. The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) is an open learning board in India for homeschooled kids. Like the state and central boards, NIOS allows parents to register kids for major qualifications like class 10th and 12th exams. The value of the certificate is at par with other boards. Apart from formal education, it also has vocational course options. Another board is the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). This internationally accredited qualification evaluates kids at multiple levels from primary to Class 10 and 12. Homeschooled kids can appear for the examination as private candidates, and can earn a certification that is accepted worldwide.