Best Schools in Chennai: Top CBSE and State Board Schools for 2026
By Satyavadan Prakhya · November 2, 2026 · 6 min read
Chennai is known for academic schools with strong values and some of India's best board results. Many families also want Tamil, Carnatic music and classical dance alongside academics – and Chennai's schools deliver all of it.
Note: this list is based on long-standing reputation, board results and national rankings such as EducationWorld – it is not an official ranking, and schools change. Always check fees, admissions and the latest results on each school's official website and visit before deciding.
What to know about schools in Chennai
- Boards: CBSE and the Tamil Nadu State Board are the most common; a few schools offer ICSE, Cambridge and IB.
- Academic year: usually starts in June; admissions for popular schools often open between November and January.
- Language: Tamil is usually taught as a language in most schools – ask about options if your child has studied abroad.
Top schools in Chennai
| School | Why parents shortlist it |
|---|---|
| Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan (PSBB) | A well-known CBSE group with consistently strong board results and IIT entrants. |
| Vidya Mandir, Mylapore | Highly respected CBSE school known for academics. |
| DAV Boys' Senior Secondary School, Gopalapuram | Known for excellent board results and competitive-exam preparation. |
| Chettinad Vidyashram | Large CBSE school with a strong academic and cultural programme. |
| Sishya School | Respected for its all-round approach, with ICSE and Cambridge options. |
| Lady Andal Venkatasubba Rao School | Known for academics alongside music and dance. |
| The School KFI | A Krishnamurti Foundation school focused on learning without fear and small classes. |
| American International School Chennai | IB school for families who may move abroad again. |
Admission tips
- Ask how the school supports children joining from abroad (Tamil, Hindi and syllabus gaps).
- Check results for Class 10 and 12 over several years.
- Visit during school hours to see classes in action.
The bottom line
Chennai's top schools are academically strong and culturally rich. Decide on CBSE, state board or international, then visit your shortlist.
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