MS GOWRAIYABATHAN

India has one of the world's largest school systems, with over 1.5 million schools serving approximately 250 million students. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and state boards operate alongside the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) and international curricula including IB and Cambridge. International schools in major cities — Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai — are the primary employers for internationally qualified teachers.

Salaries vary significantly across India's sectors. International school teachers can expect US$15,000–US$40,000 annually, often with accommodation and return flights included. CBSE and ICSE school salaries are lower but paired with a lower cost of living. Government school pay is determined by state pay commissions and varies considerably by state.

Foreign nationals teaching in India require an Employment Visa, sponsored by the school. This is issued for the duration of the contract and is renewable. Most international school recruitment occurs through agencies and annual job fairs in London, Bangkok, and Melbourne. A recognised degree and teaching qualification are required; experience in IB or Cambridge curricula is highly valued.