Darjeeling, located in the scenic hills of West Bengal, is famous for its quality education. The city offers a range of top-notch schools that provide excellent education and facilities. For parents looking for the best schools in Darjeeling, finding the right information can be challenging. YellowSlate has taken the initiative to research and deliver accurate and reliable information to help parents make informed choices.
YellowSlate, known for its educational research, has curated a list of the top 10 best schools in Darjeeling for the academic year 2024-25. This blog covers essential details such as fees, admission processes, reviews, curriculum, and facilities. With a commitment to providing precise information, YellowSlate ensures parents can find the best “schools near me” for their children.
1. St. Paul’s School
St. Paul’s School is an independent boarding school for boys located in Darjeeling, ranked as the Best Boarding School in West Bengal. Founded on May 1, 1823, by Anglo-Indian leader John William Ricketts, the school has served as a second home to generations of Paulites from various parts of India and the world.
Consistently ranked among the top boys’ residential schools in India, the campus spans 63 acres and is nestled in the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling, with an abundance of flora and fauna. St. Paul’s provides a value-based education focusing on the holistic development of young boys, enabling them to become capable and responsible young adults and citizens.
- Location: P.O: Jalapahar, Darjeeling Pin: 734103 West Bengal, India.
- Website: https://stpaulsdarjeeling.edu.in/
- Grades: Nursery to Class 12 (Senior Secondary)
- Curriculum: ICSE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations)
Admission Process :
- Fill out the Admission Form linked on website and pay the non-refundable registration fees.
- If a child withdraws and seeks readmission, it will be treated as a new admission.
- Entrance Tests/Interviews are conducted in August and sometimes in December.
- Admission offers are subject to availability and are based on the performance in written tests/interviews, at the sole discretion of the school.
Certificates Required:
- A doctor’s certificate confirming the child’s fitness for school life in Darjeeling.
- Complete health information on a form provided by the school.
- Transfer certificate from the previous school (if applicable).
- Birth certificate (Certified Copy).
School Year:
- The school year typically starts in early March and ends in late November/early December.
- Three terms with short breaks in May/June and September/October.
- During short holidays, students may stay with parents, relatives, or friends with prior permission from the Rector.
- All students must return to school by 4:00 p.m. on the last day of these holidays.
Fee Structure
| Admission Fees | ₹ 40,000 | Onetime |
| Boarding Fees | ₹ 3,00,000 | Annually |
| Students Retention Fund (Refundable) | ₹ 20,000 | Onetime |
| Development Levy | ₹ 20,000 | Annually |
2. Loreto Convent
Loreto Convent Darjeeling, established in 1846 by the Loreto Sisters, quickly became Darjeeling’s first and only educational oasis. By 1847, it was all set up in its forever home, welcoming both boarding and day students with open arms. Fast forward to today, and it’s a vibrant hub of learning, accredited by the ICSE/ISC, shaping bright, global-ready minds.
- Location: Jorethang Rd, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
- Website: https://www.loretodarjeeling.org/
- Grades: Nursery to Grade 12
- Curriculum: ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education)
Admission Process of Loreto Convent:
- Timing for Enquiries: Admission inquiries typically begin at Loreto Convent in Darjeeling from the second week of January. Detailed information is usually posted on the school’s Notice Board.
- Classes Available: Loreto Convent offers admissions from Class 1 to Class 10.
- Application Submission:
- For Primary Section (Class 1 to Class 5): Applications can be submitted from mid-March onwards at the School Administrative Office.
- For Senior Section (Class 6 to Class 10): Similar to the primary section, applications are accepted from mid-March at the School Administrative Office. However, admission is subject to seat availability, and no mid-session admissions are entertained.
- Admission for Class 11: The admission procedure for Class 11 commences only after the CBSE board results for Class 10 are declared. Application forms become available post the Board results.
- Office Hours:
- Principal’s Office: Monday to Friday, 10:30 am to 11:30 am, with special appointments available on weekends.
- School Office: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, and Saturday, 8:00 am to 12:00 noon.
Fee Structure of Loreto Convent:
3. Bethany School Darjeeling
Bethany School, a Christian institution, is administered by the Registered Society of The Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny and operates under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Darjeeling. The school provides primary education from LKG to class 5 and is located in Darjeeling town, with no branches in Kurseong or any other hill station.
- Location: Gandhi Road, Darjeeling, West Bengal – 734101
- Website: https://bethanydarjeeling.com/
- Grades: LKG to Grade 5
- Contact: contact@bethanydarjeeling.com
- Curriculum: CISCE
Admission Process of Bethany School Darjeeling
- Fill out the admission form available on the school website.
- School will evaluate the application form and take the decision.
Fee Structure of Bethany School Darjeeling
The average Fee Structure of Bethany School Darjeeling is Rs. 45200/-
4. Mount Hermon School Darjeeling
Mount Hermon School in Darjeeling is not just any school; it’s the go-to co-ed Christian spot for a top-notch American-style education, nestled right in the heart of Singamari’s lush green hills. Unlike the British vibe of nearby schools, Mount Hermon marches to the beat of its own drum, with a curriculum that’s all about the I.C.S.E and I.S.C boards. Whether you’re into Science, Humanities, or Commerce, they’ve got you covered for the +2 level. It’s the perfect blend of serene hillside living and academic excellence, making it a standout in Darjeeling. How cool is that?
- Location: Singamari, North Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal – 734104
- Website: https://mhsdarj1895.org/
- Grades: Nursery to Grade 12
- Curriculum: ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) and ISC (Indian School Certificate)
Admission Process of Mount Hermon School Darjeeling:
Admission to Class KG to VII:
- Age Criteria:
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- KG: 4+ years as of 28th February of the admission year.
- Class 1: 5+ years.
- Registration: Registration does not guarantee admission; it depends on assessment and seat availability.
- Admission Process: Admission is granted after clearing a written test and interview.
- Discrepancies: Management reserves the right to cancel registration and admission in case of discrepancies.
- Fee Policy: Fees paid at admission are non-refundable, except for the security deposit upon withdrawal.
- Conversion: Boarder to day scholar conversion isn’t allowed in the same academic session.
- Management Rights: The management reserves the right to change admission criteria.
- Required Documents:
- Last two years’ final term reports.
- Birth certificate copy.
- Transfer certificate (within 15 days of provisional admission).
- Passport size photographs of the candidate and parents/local guardian.
- Eligibility Criteria for Admission to Class XI (Non-MHS Students):
- Science: Minimum 65% aggregate in class IX and X final/half-yearly reports.
- Commerce/Humanities: Minimum 60% aggregate in class IX and X final/half-yearly reports.
- Age: Candidate should be 15+ years old at the time of admission.
- Admission Test Subjects:
- Science/Commerce/Humanities with Mathematics: English, Mathematics, and General Awareness.
- Without Mathematics: English and General Awareness.
- Required Documents:
- IX final result.
- Class X half-yearly/Board result.
- Birth certificate copy.
- Character certificate.
- Passport size photographs of the candidate and parents/local guardian.
Fee Structure of Mount Hermon School Darjeeling:
5. St. Joseph’s School North Point
North Point has been shaping leaders since 1888, becoming a cornerstone in communities, businesses, and beyond. Known as “North Pointers,” its alumni are making big waves, living by the powerful NP Chorus they belted out each morning, offering a hand to those in need and a lift to those lagging behind. It’s a legacy of support and strength, something that’s been echoing through the halls and hearts for over a century. This school isn’t just about education; it’s about molding individuals who genuinely contribute and care. And that, frankly, is something to be pretty proud of.
- Location: North Point, Singamari, Darjeeling, West Bengal – 734104
- Website: https://www.sjcnorthpoint.com/
- Grades: Nursery to Class 12 (Senior Secondary)
- Curriculum: ICSE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations)
Admission Process :
- Fill out the admission form and submit the relevant documents mentioned on the website
- The school will communicate with the parents regarding the further process.
Fee Structure
| Tuition Fees | Annually | ₹ 52800 |
| Admission Fees | Onetime | ₹ 60000 |
| Annual Fees | Annually | ₹ 150000 |
| Other Fees | Annually | ₹ 33750 |
6. Notre Dame Academy
Notre Dame Academy, Darjeeling, established in 1985, is a Catholic institution managed by the Patna Notre Dame Sisters Society. Originating from St. Julie Billiart of France, who founded the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1804, the academy’s spirit was passed on to Sisters Aloysia Wolbring and Ignatia, who established the Congregation in Coesfeld, Germany. Notre Dame has foundations worldwide, offering educational, social, and medical services. The first Notre Dame School in India was founded in Jamalpur, Bihar, in 1950, and now has institutions in multiple Indian states, including West Bengal and Karnataka.
- Location: NOTRE DAME ACADEMY WEST POINT, GANDHI ROAD, DARJEELING PIN CODE- 734101 WEST BENGAL
- Website: https://ndadarjeeling.com/index.php
- Grades: Class 1 to Class 12
- Curriculum: CBSE
- Contact: academynotredame@gmail.com
Admission Process of Notre Dame Academy
- Admission Enquiry is entertained from 2nd week of January.
- Application can be submitted from Mid – March in the School Administrative Office
- Admission procedure begins only after the CBSE board results of class 10th are declared. Forms are available only after the Board results .
- Based on merit-based assessment or interview final decision has been taken by school management.
Fee Structure of Notre Dame Academy
7. Rockvale Academy
Rockvale Academy? Oh, it’s this gem tucked away in the Kalimpong hills, chilling at 3000 feet. The place is a stunner, with ever-changing views of lush valleys and the majestic Himalayas. It’s all about giving kids a rock-solid foundation, in every sense. Here, education is life itself, packed with real-world learning that shapes them into well-rounded beings—morally, spiritually, you name it. Rockvale’s the spot if you’re after a school that’s forward-thinking and committed to seeing kids ace life with top-notch skills and a high school certificate to boot.
- Location: Rockvale Academy, 9th Mile Rishi Road, District & P.O. Kalimpong – 734301, West Bengal,
- Website: https://rockvaleacademy.com/
- Grades: Nursery to XII (Senior Secondary)
- Curriculum: ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education)
Admission Process :
Scholarship Criteria for the Session 2024:
- 90% and above Aggregate Percentage Marks:
- 100% Scholarship awarded.
- Session fees and school fees waived in full.
- 85% to 89% Aggregate Percentage Marks:
- 50% Scholarship awarded.
- 50% of session fees waived; school fees to be paid in full.
- 80% to 84% Aggregate Percentage Marks:
- 25% Scholarship awarded.
- 25% of session fees waived; school fees to be paid in full.
- Sport Scholarship:
- 50% Scholarship awarded.
- 50% of session fees waived; school fees to be paid in full.
Important Note:
- Early Bird Discount:
- 10% discount for students confirming admission before the declaration of the ICSE Results.
- Fees/Charges Not Waived:
- Registration, Centre and Coaching fees, as well as expenses for books, uniform, and exercise copies.
- Criteria for Continuance of Scholarship:
- Students must maintain discipline to retain the scholarship.
- Maintain or exceed the minimum percentage of marks required for the scholarship in Class XI.
- Submit a fresh request for scholarship continuance to Mr. Sylvester Subba between February 1st and 28/29th with the Class 11 Annual Examination Mark Sheet photocopy and an application.
Fee Structure :
8. Glenhill Public School
Glenhill Public School is all about nurturing sharp minds with a strong moral compass, ready to lead with integrity and innovation. It’s where logical thinking meets a deep appreciation for beauty, and clear expression goes hand-in-hand with robust health. With a focus on excellence, teamwork, and environmental awareness, Glenhill prepares students not just for academic success, but for life. They’re setting benchmarks across the board, from faculty to student care, all while eyeing a future where they continue to outdo themselves. Glenhill isn’t just educating; it’s sculpting the leaders of tomorrow.
- Location: 39, DOWHILL ROAD KURSEONG, DARJEELING, WEST BENGAL, 734203
- Curriculum: ICSE
- Class level: Primary to XII
- Website: http://www.glenhillschool.com/
- Email: glenhill85@gmail.com
Admission Process :
- Enquiry for Registration:
- Parents can request prospectus and registration form from the Principal or Admission Cell via mail, email, or fax.
- Age Criteria for Registration
- Age criteria for each class is specified. For example, for Class I, the child must be 6 years old or above.
- Admission Requirements:
- Post-admission formalities include council registration for Class XI for students from boards other than the council.
- Documents required include Class X pass certificate, mark sheet, migration certificate, transfer certificate, and caste certificate if applicable.
- Entrance Test:
- Admission procedure includes a written test and interview covering subjects like English, Mathematics, General Awareness, and a second language.
- Performance in the written test (70%) and interview (30%) determines selection.
- Selection Procedure:
- Marks from the written test and interview are computed to generate a merit list.
- Offer letters are sent to selected candidates, while regret letters are sent to rejected candidates.
- Admission Deadlines:
- Entrance test for Classes I to IX is held preferably on a Sunday in November. Registration should be done before November each year.
- Entrance Exam:
- Written test covers English, Mathematics, General Awareness, and a second language, followed by an admission interview in the presence of parents.
Fee Structure :
9. West Point School
West Point School, perched in the tranquil hills of Darjeeling, is more than an educational institution; it’s a forge for future leaders, offering an education that transcends traditional learning. With a storied 40-year legacy, it boasts a stellar record of 100% pass rates and a collection of inter-school trophies. This school recognizes and cultivates each student’s unique talents, preparing ‘Pointers’ to excel in diverse fields. Positioned in an idyllic setting with stunning views, West Point provides the perfect backdrop for an enriching educational journey. Thinking of joining the Pointers? This is where your remarkable path begins.
- Location: Gandhi Road, Darjeeling 734101
- Website: https://westpointschool.com/
- Grades: Playgroup to Grade 12th
- Curriculum: ICSE
Admission Process :
- Application Submission: Submit the admission form available on the school’s website or obtain it from the administrative office. Ensure to complete all required fields accurately.
- Required Documents: Along with the admission form, provide necessary documents such as:
- Birth certificate copy
- Previous academic records
- Any other documents specified by the school
- Admission Criteria: Admission may be subject to an entrance test or interview, depending on the grade level and school policies.
- Confirmation: Once the admission process is complete, successful candidates will receive confirmation from the school administration.
Fee Structure
10. Father Leblond School
Father LeBlond School, a standout in Darjeeling since 2000 and a favorite among Siliguri’s elite institutions, is where education meets innovation. As an ICSE-affiliated, co-ed boarding powerhouse, FLS is all about crafting global citizens ready to make their mark. With cutting-edge facilities and a fresh educational approach, it’s the go-to for families in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh seeking top-tier schooling. Here, it’s not just about hitting the books; it’s about building character, expanding minds, and fine-tuning judgement skills. At FLS, students don’t just learn – they grow into well-rounded, joyful individuals with a bright outlook on life. Ready to join the FLS family?
- Location: Bhimbhar, P.O. Madati, Dist – Darjeeling, 734426, West Bengal
- Curriculum: ICSE
- Class level: Nursery to XII
- Website: https://www.leblond.in/
- Email: enquiry@leblond.in
Admission Process :
For Classes I to IX:
- Registration and Age Criteria:
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- Registration starts in October.
- Children must be at least 6 years old for Class I.
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- Application Submission:
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- Obtain registration form from school office or online.
- Submit a filled form with a non-refundable fee.
- Evaluation through school’s system and interview.
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- Documents Required:
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- Birth certificate photocopy.
- Latest progress report/mark sheet.
- Original transfer certificate.
- Photocopy of parents’ identity proof.
- Health certificate certified by a medical practitioner.
- Other relevant documents like caste certificate.
- For Class XI:
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- Registration and Criteria:
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- Registration starts in January.
- Students from Father LeBlond School also apply for re-admission.
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- Application Submission:
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- Obtain registration form from school office or online.
- Submit a filled form with a non-refundable fee.
- Submission of Class IX annual exam results and Class X pre-board/selection exam results.
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- Documents Required:
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- Progress report/mark sheet of Class IX and Class X exams.
- Original transfer certificate.
- Character certificate.
- Photocopy of parents’ identity proof.
- Health certificate certified by a medical practitioner.
- Other relevant documents like caste certificate.
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- Important Notes:
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- Admission offered based on school evaluation and interview performance.
- Limited seats reserved for sports and extracurricular activities.
- Errors in forms may lead to refusal or withdrawal without refund.
- Parents must complete the admission process within 15 days of the offer.
- New students join on “F.L.S. Induction Day.”
- No admission in Class X & XII as per C.I.S.C.E. rules.
- Admission rules are subject to change with time.
Fee Structure
| Security Fees | Onetime | ₹ 20000 |
| Registration Fees | Onetime | ₹ 2000 |
| Tuition Fees | Annually | ₹ 262000 |
| Admission Fees | Onetime | ₹ 35000 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right school is a critical decision that impacts a child’s future. The top 10 best schools in Darjeeling, offer a blend of quality education, comprehensive facilities, and positive reviews. By providing detailed information on fees, admissions, curriculum, and more, YellowSlate aims to simplify this decision-making process for parents.
Whether you are a resident or new to the area, finding the “best schools in Darjeeling” or “schools near me” has never been easier. Trust YellowSlate to guide you in selecting the perfect educational institution for your child’s growth and success.