A conversation with one of our relationship managers last week turned to something fundamental to wealth creation – the value of consistency over perfection. As we discussed what makes people consistent, we arrived at a simple truth: discipline is the foundation.
But this led us to a question that stayed with me: Is discipline something we can develop as adults, or does it need to be instilled early in life?
His response came from an interesting place. As an alumnus of Mayo College, Ajmer – established in 1875 by the Earl of Mayo – he shared how boarding schools have refined the art of building discipline over centuries. Each day followed a precise rhythm, from dawn to dusk, creating patterns that shaped young minds.
‘We didn’t just learn discipline,’ he reflected, ‘we lived it. It wasn’t a separate lesson – it was simply how life worked there.
This glimpse into one of India’s oldest boarding schools opened up a fascinating window into a world that has shaped generations of leaders, industrialists, and changemakers. As India’s wealth grows and more families seek the best education for their children, these historic institutions – and the newer ones joining their ranks – offer interesting insights into how education at the highest level is evolving in our country.
In this blog, I will cover –
- Inside India’s rich boarding school culture
- The lifestyle these boarding schools promote
- A typical day at an elite boarding school
- The cost of studying at a premium boarding school
- Daly College: A blend of heritage and modern education
Let’s dive in.
Inside India’s boarding school culture
Boarding schools are far more than centres of academic excellence—they are transformative environments where character is shaped and leadership is nurtured. These institutions serve as incubators of talent, producing alumni who redefine industries, lead nations, and make lasting contributions to culture and society.
Here are a few elite boarding schools spread across India-
Beyond academics: The lifestyle these boarding schools promote
Parents making decisions about their child’s education aren’t just looking at grades or university placements anymore—they’re considering how schools can prepare their children to excel personally and professionally.
For many, premium boarding schools are the answer, offering transformative experiences that traditional day schools just can’t provide. These institutions offer a rare combination of exclusivity, holistic development, and opportunities beyond the classroom. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Exclusivity and excellence: With small class sizes and selective admissions, these schools ensure personal attention for every student. Take The Doon School, for instance, where the 10:1 student-teacher ratio allows for a highly personalised learning experience.
- Global exposure: Beyond classroom excellence, India’s elite boarding schools have woven global exposure into their DNA through Round Square – an international network inspired by the educational philosophy of Kurt Hahn, who believed in learning beyond traditional academics. Through this alliance of 260 schools across 50 countries, institutions like Daly College, Mayo College, and Doon School offer their students a truly global perspective. Each year, dozens of students as young as 14 experience life-changing exchanges, spending up to six months studying abroad. These early international exposures shape worldviews, build cross-cultural competencies and forge global mindsets well before their university years.
- Focus on extracurricular activities: With campuses spanning over 100 acres and strong financial resources, these schools invest heavily in diverse infrastructure for student development. Beyond standard sports facilities, students have access to Olympic-sized pools, athletic tracks, and specialised training in sports like shooting, horse riding, and golf.
The focus on well-rounded growth extends beyond athletics – well-equipped auditoriums support theatre programs, while organised debate clubs participate regularly in national competitions. These schools create spaces where students can explore interests far beyond academics. Did you know Lawrence School’s student team climbed Mount Everest? - Leadership development: Leadership at these boarding schools isn’t taught in classrooms – it’s lived daily through a carefully structured senior-junior relationship. By their final years, students find themselves guiding younger ones through everything from selecting sports teams to managing study groups. House captains work alongside housemasters to maintain discipline, while senior students mentor juniors in academics and school traditions.
This organic system of responsibility, where today’s juniors watch, learn, and eventually step into their seniors’ shoes, creates natural leaders who understand both authority and accountability. It’s a practice that turns leadership from an abstract concept into a daily reality. - Personal growth and lifelong bonds: Boarding schools create an environment where students forge lifelong bonds through shared experiences, living, dining, learning, and growing together, fostering a unique camaraderie and great interpersonal skills. With constant peer engagement and collaborative learning, boarding schools cultivate relationships and personal growth in ways that traditional day schools simply cannot replicate.
A typical day at an elite boarding school
Life at an elite boarding school is a meticulously crafted experience—a seamless blend of academics, co-curricular pursuits, and personal growth that extends far beyond the boundaries of traditional education.
A day here starts early, with activities like morning PT or yoga set in their pristine campuses. After a gourmet breakfast, students immerse themselves in rigorous academics guided by globally recognised curricula like IB, IGCSE, or ICSE. The calibre of instruction and individualised attention ensure that learning is just unparalleled.
Afternoons are dedicated to hands-on learning, offering unique developmental opportunities. From cutting-edge robotics labs at Good Shepherd International School to equestrian training at Mayo College and professional-grade music studios at Woodstock School, the possibilities are just the beginning of what these schools provide. Sports also play a central role, with huge campuses and specialised coaches for everything from cricket to squash.
Evenings are equally structured and purposeful, with dedicated study sessions where faculty provide tailored guidance. Weekends elevate the experience further—students participate in curated excursions, cultural events, and meaningful community service programmes that broaden horizons and nurture leadership qualities.
It’s no surprise these schools are envied by many and dreamed of by the lucky few who make it in. Sure, some might see boarding schools as tough or far from home, but they’re actually an incredible, immersive experience that shapes students to take on the world with confidence and resilience.
The cost of studying at a premium boarding school
The annual expense typically ranges from INR 7-15 lakh for Indian boards (CBSE/ICSE) and INR 12-25 lakh for international curricula like IB or IGCSE.
Beyond the basic curriculum fees, there are multiple things to consider-
- Registration charges
- One-time admission fee
- The annual security deposit
- Extra curriculum costs for specialised programs – think horse riding at Mayo College or advanced robotics at Stonehill International.
- Exchange programs – Most schools like Doon and Woodstock also organise international exchanges and leadership programs that come with their own costs.
- Additional essential expenses on uniforms, books, laptops, and healthcare coverage.
Keep in mind that most schools also have annual fee increases of 8-12%. For a six-year boarding school experience (grades 7-12), you’re looking at a minimum investment of INR 75 lakh to INR 1 crore at current rates.
How to get into India’s premier boarding schools
- Start early: It is imperative to start in advance, typically 9-12 months before the academic year. Most prestigious institutions like Doon School and Mayo College have a highly selective intake process and close their admissions up to a year in advance.
- Beyond academic excellence: While academic excellence is critical, elite schools like Woodstock and Good Shepherd International seek well-rounded students. Participation and success in sports, performing arts, leadership roles, and other extracurricular activities can strengthen the application.
- The legacy factor: Schools like Mayo College and Daly College offer special consideration for legacy admissions. If you or your family members are alumni or hold a distinguished legacy, make sure to highlight these connections.
- The personal touch: At schools like Lawrence School Sanawar and The Scindia School, the interview process extends to the family. These institutions value alignment of values and educational philosophy, so be prepared to discuss your vision for your child’s future and your choice of boarding school education.
- The trial experience: Some of these elite schools like Stonehill International and Unison World School offer trial stays or observation days. This unique opportunity lets your child experience the boarding school atmosphere firsthand.
- The global connect: These elite schools pride themselves on their diverse international student body. If you’re an NRI or international family, these schools offer special admission guidance, English language support, and cultural integration programs to ensure a smooth transition.
Most schools have –
- A written entrance exam for admission. These tests are designed to see how well students grasp the basics, usually focusing on language (English) and mathematics.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for a personal interview, where school representatives assess the child’s personality, communication skills, interests, and aptitude for the institution’s ethos. This may be followed by an interview with the parents.
Choosing the right school is a pivotal decision that requires thorough research and careful consideration. If you are navigating this journey, here’s a quick guide to help you evaluate the important metrics.
Just last week, over dinner, a team member shared his experience of his early days at Daly College, Indore, and it was interesting to get a peek into boarding school life.
Let me tell you more –
Spotlight on Daly College: A blend of heritage and modern education
Daly College was originally founded in 1870 as a school for Indian princes. Set on a sprawling 118-acre campus, the school offers both CBSE and CIE curricula, allowing students the flexibility to tailor their academic paths.
The institution’s infrastructure reflects a blend of heritage and modernity. While students study in smart classrooms and use modern sports facilities (including an Olympic-size swimming pool and 2 cricket grounds of Ranji Trophy standard), they also experience the grandeur of learning in heritage buildings that once hosted royalty.
The alumni network of Daly College boasts an impressive legacy, including former royalty, top industrialists, and leaders from diverse fields. From India’s Commander-in-Chief, K. M. Cariappa, and prominent politicians like Digvijaya Singh and Arun Yadav to esteemed scientists like Mahima Gupta and Amrita Tiwari, the institution’s alumni have made significant contributions to the country.
What sets Daly apart is its Global Connect Programme – a unique initiative that includes exchanges with schools in countries like the UK and Australia. The school maintains strong ties with Round Square schools worldwide, offering students international exposure through exchanges and conferences.
In summary
Boarding schools offer students unparalleled opportunities for growth through academic excellence, holistic development, and lifelong camaraderie. Living and learning together fosters discipline, resilience, and interpersonal skills, giving students a distinct edge over their peers.
With state-of-the-art facilities, global exchange programmes, and a focus on leadership and extracurriculars, these institutions prepare students to excel on international platforms.
For parents seeking the best, boarding schools provide a foundation of strong values, influential networks, and essential life skills, making them a transformative choice for their child’s future.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as soliciting, advertising, or providing any advice.