In the Indian education system, many students and their parents often confuse NCERT and CBSE. Understand the difference between NCERT and CBSE lies in their goals, roles, and how they operate together. So, understanding the difference helps you make wise decisions about books, syllabi, and exam preparation.
Therefore, we are here to break down the information on that difference and address some usual questions, such as the difference between NCERT and CBSE books, and which is harder, CBSE or NCERT.
When anyone discusses the difference between the NCERT and CBSE syllabus, what we really mean is how CBSE adopts, adapts, or preaches the syllabus created by NCERT.
In short, the NCERT syllabus is the base, and the CBSE syllabus usually mirrors it by keeping it the same or tweaking it if needed.
Also read - CBSE vs ICSE
Also, a common question is the difference between NCERT and CBSE books. So let’s know what the variations are:
NCERT issues textbooks, study material, exam sample papers, and required resources that suit the curriculum and suggest the syllabus.
CBSE does not issue any books. Instead, CBSE advises that affiliated schools use NCERT books for several subjects. Schools can also add on NCERT books with some additional or practice books.
Because NCERT books are standard, affordable, and carefully created, they are used for CBSE schools as primary textbooks. So, the difference is noticeable: NCERT is the publisher of books; CBSE is the board that adds these books to the student curriculum.
Students often wonder, “CBSE or NCERT, which is harder?” The question is tricky because CBSE and NCERT can’t be directly compared. NCERT books are designed to be conceptually easy to understand, which ensures that students at different learning levels can comprehend the syllabus. However, CBSE exams sometimes frame questions that require higher thinking, which is beyond basic learning. This makes CBSE exams feel harder compared to other state boards. However, if a student is studying from the NCERT books thoroughly, they will be prepared for tough CBSE exams.
Also read - IGCSE vs CBSE
The difference between NCERT and CBSE can be quickly summarized as: NCERT is the body that designs and publishes syllabus content, while CBSE is the board that implements this syllabus in the school administration. The difference between the NCERT and CBSE syllabus lies in the way the CBSE board adopts this structure to implement in the exam structure. In the same way, the difference between NCERT and CBSE books is that NCERT publishes textbooks and CBSE uses them. As of now, whether CBSE or NCERT is hard, the answer depends on the student’s capabilities and mastery of the NCERT portion.
At TKC World School, we are here to help students and parents understand these fundamental but essential differences. If you are someone looking for expert guidance and the proper use of NCERT resources within the CBSE board, connect with us now to learn more about our admissions and academic programs.
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