Why Are Students Being Asked to Leave Schools? A Parent’s Wake-Up Call

In recent years, I’ve encountered an alarming number of cases where students are either forced to leave schools or lose academic years for reasons that raise deep concerns about the current educational system. Let’s explore three common scenarios and a powerful solution every parent should know about.

Case 1: Asked to Leave Due to Low Marks in Grade 9 or 11

The Questionable Practice

• A child who has been studying in a school for 1–2 years is suddenly asked to leave because of poor academic performance in classes 9 or 11.
• Why was the student admitted in the first place if their capabilities were not assessed properly?
• Most schools conduct an entrance test — if the student cleared it, they were deemed fit back then, right? So whose fault is that the student is not performing well?

Where Did the System Fail?

• If the child has declined academically after admission, shouldn’t the school be held accountable?
• Isn’t it the school’s duty to help the student progress?
• Are schools eliminating students just to maintain a clean board exam record?

The Hidden Agenda

This raises suspicions:

• Was the school simply interested in collecting hefty admission fees?
• Are they using “performance” as a convenient excuse to remove students and protect their rankings?

Case 2: Stream Change Struggles in Class 10 or 12

Teenagers Are Still Exploring Themselves

• How can we expect a 14–15-year-old to confidently decide between Science, Commerce, or Humanities?
• Even adults in their 40s often struggle with clarity about their life paths!

Limitations in Subject Flexibility

• Most Indian schools do not offer flexible subject combinations, unlike international boards.
• Stream options are limited by:
  • School infrastructure
  • Faculty availability
  • Lack of awareness and intention

Who Pays the Price?

• The child suffers from the oversight of the school and parents.
• A rigid system forces many children into irrelevant or difficult streams without support to switch later.

Case 3: Clueless Teens with Big Dreams, No Skills

A Rising Trend

• Many teens today dream of becoming CEOs or millionaires, but with no direction, skills, or plan.
• Parents often realise too late that their child is aimless and unmotivated.

What’s Going Wrong?

• The popular parental mindset, “My child will do whatever they want to do”, is a trap.
• Reality check: Many teens today prefer gaming, social media, and parties over hard work.

What Parents Must Do

• Start career discussions early.
• Talk openly about:
  • Money and effort
  • Responsibilities
  • Options and consequences
• Teach children to be goal-oriented, aware, and grounded.

Why Losing a Year Isn’t the Real Problem — But the Psychological Impact Is

• Academic failures can strengthen character, but only in small, manageable doses.
• Sudden shocks like being expelled or forced to switch paths can deeply hurt a child’s mental health and self-worth.
• That’s why I began researching options — not just to avoid a lost year, but to protect young hearts and minds.

A Hidden Gem: The NIOS Board

What Is NIOS?

• National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) is a national board under the Government of India.
• It offers the flexibility of IGCSE and homeschooling while maintaining recognition equal to CBSE, ICSE, and State Boards.
• Website: https://www.nios.ac.in

NIOS: Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

❓ Is NIOS valid for college admissions and entrance exams?

• Absolutely. NIOS is approved by the Ministry of Education.
• Students are eligible for:
  • Engineering and Medical entrance exams
  • NDA, NIFT, NCHMCT, CET, COMEDK
  • Any government job exams requiring a Class 10 or 12 certification

❓ Is NIOS inferior to CBSE or ICSE?

• Not at all. NIOS holds equal recognition as CBSE, ICSE, ISC, and state boards.
• No university or institute in India can legally reject an NIOS-passed student.

❓ What subjects and streams can students choose?

NIOS offers great flexibility across three main streams: Science, Commerce, and Arts.

Grade 10 Groups of Subjects with Codes

Group-A
Hindi(201), English(202), Bengali(203), Marathi(204), Telugu(205), Urdu(206), Gujarati(207), Kannada(208), Sanskrit(209), Punjabi(210), Assamese (228), Nepali(231), Malayalam(232), Odia(233), Arabic (235), Persian (236), Tamil (237), Sindhi (238)

Group-B
*Mathematics(211),*Science and Technology(212), Social Science(213), Economics(214), Business Studies(215), *Home Science(216), *Data Entry Operation(E)(229), Psychology (222), Indian Culture & Heritage (223), *Painting (225),*Data Entry Operations (229), Accountacy (224),*Hindustani Music (242),*Carnatic Sangeet(243)

Indian Knowledge Tradition #

#Veda Adhyan (245), #Sanskrit Vyakaran (246), #Bharatiya Darshan (247), #Sanskrit Sahitya (248 )

Grade 10 – How to Select Subjects From Groups?

• Five Subjects with at least one language or at most two languages.
• Minimum of five subjects.
• Two additional subjects can also be taken.
• The Learners are, however, advised to select the subjects as per their future plan of study and work.
• Minimum one and Maximum two language subjects from group A are permissible for certification. However, a third language can be offered as an additional subject.

Grade 12 Groups of Subjects with Codes

Group-A
Hindi(301), English(302), Bangla (303), Tamil (304), Odia (305), Urdu(306), Gujarati (307), Sanskrit (309), Punjabi (310)
Group-B
Mathematics(311), *Home Science(321), Psychology(328), *Geography(316), Economics(318), Business Studies(319), *Painting (332), *Data entry Operation(336) 

Indian Knowledge Tradition#

Veda Adhyan#(345),Sanskrit Vyakaran#(346),Bharatiya Darshan#(347),Sanskrit Sahitya#(348)

Group-C
*Physics(312), History(315), *Library and Information Sc.(339),  *Enviornmental Science(333),
Group-D
* Chemistry(313), Political Science(317),*Mass Communication (335),Military Studies(374)
Group-E
*Biology(314), Accountancy(320),*Introduction to Law (338),Military History(375),

Group-F
*Computer Science(330), Sociology(331),  Tourism(337),*Physical Education and Yog(373)
Learner can opt for only one subject from each of Groups C, D, E and F

Grade 12 – How to Select Subjects From Groups?

• Five Subjects with at least one language or at most two languages.
• Minimum of five subjects.
• Two additional subjects can also be taken.
• The Learners are, however, advised to select the subjects as per their future plan of study and work.
• Minimum one and Maximum two language subjects from group A are permissible for certification. However, a third language can be offered as an additional subject.

• Subjects with * have theory as well as practical works.
• # In the Certificate, mention of “Indian Knowledge Tradition” will be made on successful completion of above four subjects alongwith Sanskrit Language subject at
  Secondary/Senior Secondary level. These subjects are available in Sanskrit medium only.

What are the Admission Months for NIOS Courses?

Block for online Dates of online Admission	Dates of online Admission	First Examination in which students can appear
Block I	March 1 – August 31	April/ May of next year
Block II	September 1- February 28	October/November of next year

What is On-Demand Examination?

The On-Demand Examination System (ODES) is a revolutionary approach by the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) that empowers students to take control of when and how they give their exams — truly a learner-centric system.

🌟 Key Features of ODES

• Time-Independent: Students can appear for exams when they feel prepared, instead of waiting for fixed exam dates.
• Performance-Focused: Learners can retake exams to improve their scores until they are personally satisfied.
• Self-Paced Learning: Exams are no longer about “finishing the syllabus on time” — the learner sets the pace.

What are the mediums of instruction?

Medium of instruction is the language in which the books are published. NIOS offers learners the freedom to study in the language they are most comfortable with. This flexibility ensures that language is not a barrier to education.

📘 Secondary Level (Class 9–10)

Students can choose to study in any of the following languages:

• Hindi
• English
• Urdu
• Marathi
• Malayalam
• Telugu
• Gujarati
• Oriya (Odia)

📗 Senior Secondary Level (Class 11–12)

Medium of instruction is available in:

• Hindi
• English
• Urdu

🌍 More Language Options via State Open Schools

If a learner prefers to study in a language not listed above, they can explore State Open Schools, which may offer additional regional language options based on local demand and infrastructure.

Are there any restrictions on appearing for any exam via NIOS?

NIOS is designed to make education accessible and flexible. There are no upper age limits, and entry is open to learners from all walks of life. However, some basic eligibility rules do apply.

🎯 Eligibility Criteria for Admission

📘 Secondary Course (Class 9–10)

• Minimum age: 14 years
• Upper age limit: None
• Documents required:
  • Only a self-certificate stating that the learner can study at the secondary level

📗 Senior Secondary Course (Class 11–12)

• Minimum age: 15 years
• Upper age limit: None
• Documents required:
  • A Secondary School Certificate (Class 10 pass) from any recognized board

✅ What Makes This Special?

• No age barrier: Perfect for school dropouts, working professionals, or anyone wanting to resume studies
• Flexible admission: Easy self-certification for entry into secondary level
• Open to all boards: Accepts Class 10 certificates from CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, and others

What documents are required to register online in any NIOS Class?

How is the student supposed to study/learn/gain knowledge after enrolling in the NIOS Classes?

NIOS follows a multi-channel learning approach that empowers students to study at their own pace while receiving guidance and support at every step. It’s ideal for learners who need flexibility, accessibility, and a variety of learning formats.

🎓 NIOS Instructional Methods: How Learning Happens

1️⃣ Self-Learning Print Material

• Core study material is provided in printed format.
• Students can learn at home, at their own pace, and on their own schedule.

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2️⃣ Audio and Video Support

• Pre-recorded audio and video lessons are broadcasted via:
  • Television & Radio
  • Online platforms or at the local study center
• These enhance understanding through audio-visual engagement.

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3️⃣ Personal Contact Programmes (PCPs)

• Conducted at NIOS study centers.
• Help students:
  • Clear doubts
  • Solve problems
  • Receive academic guidance from trained tutors
• Attending PCPs is strongly recommended, especially for concept clarity and exam preparation.

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4️⃣ Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs)

• Students must submit TMAs regularly.
• TMAs help:
  • Track learning progress
  • Build consistent study habits
  • Get personalized feedback from tutors
• TMAs form part of continuous internal assessment.

🔎 Note: Tutors are especially helpful because the official website is not always updated, so offline support is critical.

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5️⃣ Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

• ICT tools are used to:
  • Share announcements, resources, and study updates
  • Enable access to digital learning materials
• Students can use:
  • NIOS online portals
  • Email, apps, and recorded lectures

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✅ Benefits of the NIOS Learning System

• Flexible and learner-friendly structure
• Combines self-study, media, and face-to-face support
• Encourages discipline, accountability, and independent thinking
• Helps students stay on track even without daily classroom routines

Is NIOS eligible board for IAS, NDA, JEE, NEET, NATA, CLAT, CAT?

NIOS class 12th certification is eligible for any exam conducted nationally, including IAS, NDA, JEE, NEET, NATA, CLAT, and CAT .

How do International schools and colleges treat the NIOS pass?

This has to be an important question for many. The number of homeschoolers in abroad is higher than in India. (Though I can debate here about the original gurukul system and homeschooling started in ancient India.) So I checked a few international colleges like MIT, Harvard etc and found that while the overall admission rate of students from day school is 6%, and the admit rate for International students is 3%, the admit rate for homeschooled is 1%.

The qualities that these prestigious colleges look for beyond academics like Initiative, Advanced classes done from OpenCourseWare, Coursera etc, Extracurricular activities like volunteering, social work, sports, theater, orchestra etc, Summer Camps in Math, Computers, Science etc, Recommendations from three independent people other than parents, These homeschooled children do get admission in prestigious colleges like MIT. Read here https://mitadmissions.org/apply/parents-educators/homeschool/

The qualities that these prestigious colleges look for beyond academics like Initiative, Advanced classes done from OpenCourseWare, Coursera etc, Extracurricular activities like volunteering, social work, sports, theater, orchestra etc, Summer Camps in Math, Computers, Science etc, Recommendations from three independent people other than parents, These homeschooled children do get admission in prestigious colleges like MIT. Read here https://mitadmissions.org/apply/parents-educators/homeschool/

Where is the Pune NIOS Main Centre?

National Institute of Open Schooling, Regional Centre – Pune, Second Floor, Indian Institute of Education Campus, 128/2 J.P. Naik Road, Kothrud, Pune, Maharashtra, India 411038

Where are the NIOS study centres in Pune located?

https://sdmis.nios.ac.in/registration/locate-study-center

Are there coaching centres in Pune that students can join to complete NIOS classes?

There are many coaching centres attached to each NIOS centre. Contact details of these coaching centres will be obtained from these centres.

How much is the fee for NIOS enrolment on the NIOS website?

The fee is less than Rs 3000/-

Success Stories of NIOS pass students.
Is there a list of successful NIOS Alumi?

Many students have successfully completed their 12th from NIOS and also scored ranks in IIT JEE exams.

https://www.quora.com/Any-story-of-a-NIOS-student-joining-IIT

https://www.quora.com/Is-there-anyone-here-who-got-a-satisfied-result-from-NIOS

https://www.quora.com/Is-NIOS-good-for-appearing-for-an-IIT-JEE

Pros of NIOS Board

• The selection of Subjects is on the free will of the students and parents
• Study at your own pace or teach your child to study at his/her pace
• Economical as the fee is less than 5000 for one year!
• Time saved from the daily commute to school and from spending school hours. Many students opt for NIOS in 11th- 12th to prepare for JEE, NEET.
• Study from any material, though the material is provided by NIOS
• An unsuccessful student from any board can give the exam in the same year and pass that particular grade. So, a student who has failed in the 10th or 12th can appear for the NIOS board exam and pass in the same year.
• The exam is conducted twice a year, giving a double chance for passing any exam within the same year.
• There are study centres in all cities where students can get their doubts cleared.
• A student can pursue two different courses by appearing for both.
• Since age is not a factor, anyone can enrol and complete their primary schooling with certification from NIOS.
• NIOS board certificate is recognised by all other boards, exams, institutes and universities except a few like Amity and MCI. (Both have now accepted the certification from NIOS, provided the student qualifies in their exams and interviews.)
• A very good option for homeschooled children.
• A good option for children with disabilities.
• Definitely a great option for parents who do not want to spend a fortune on schooling their children.
• If a school is far or difficult to reach, NIOS will be a wonderful option.
• Above all if your child is unable to cope up with the stress of the competitions and group studies, then NIOS will be a great option for you, provided you teach them.

Cons of NIOS Board

• The Government has not promoted this board, hence it’s not as popular as CBSE/ ISC / State boards
• Unawareness about this board among the parents and students
• The website lacks a lot of information
• Since a large percentage of students opting for NIOS are from the economically weaker section, the board lacks the charm amongst parents
• Success stories of NIOS board-passed students are not in large numbers, which makes it again unpopular
• It is considered as the last option amongst students and parents who are asked to leave the regular school or board or when the choice of subjects is not available to students.
• Parents dream to send their children to brick and mortar schools, though many schools have started to offer this board along with another national board on their own school premises.
• MCI (Medical Council of India) caused a dent in the reputation and abilities of the board by initially refusing to consider the 12th certificate from NIOS for NEET, but has now accepted it with a few conditions. Check the link at the end.

If you come across parents who are really worried due to high school fee, health issues of children and attendance problem, asked to take transfer certificate by the current school, not able to study in groups, want the freedom to choose subjects, want the freedom to pursue their hobbies as future careers, share this post with them. Do like and comment on any question you may wish to so that I can ask them to the right authority and repost them.

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