Karnataka’s School Enrolment Trends: Why Private Institutions Continue to Lead in 2025-26

In the academic year 2025-26, Karnataka’s education landscape highlights a persistent shift in parental preferences. Private schools have attracted significantly more Class 1 admissions than government institutions, with private enrolments exceeding government ones by 1,68,132 students. This gap underscores a decade-long trend where private unaided schools have gained ground while government school enrolments have declined.

The Numbers Tell the Story

According to data shared by School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa:

• Government schools: 3,42,756 Class 1 admissions
• Private schools: 5,10,888 Class 1 admissions
• Aided schools: 50,238 Class 1 admissions

Overall, government school enrolments have dropped from 47.1 lakh in 2015-16 to 38.2 lakh in 2025-26—a 19% decline. Meanwhile, private unaided schools have seen their share rise to around 47 lakh students.

Parents queuing for school admissions, reflecting the competitive nature of enrolments in Karnataka.

Why Parents Are Choosing Private Schools

Several factors drive this preference:

1. Demand for English-Medium and Central Syllabi: Many parents perceive English-medium instruction and boards like CBSE/ICSE as offering better future opportunities. A recent survey of over 14,000 parents in Karnataka found that nearly 47% cited the availability of central boards as a key reason for choosing private schools.
2. Perceived Quality and Facilities: Private schools are often seen as providing better infrastructure, smaller class sizes, and more extracurricular activities.

Typical classrooms in private schools, often equipped with modern amenities.

3. Early Education Options: Private schools frequently offer pre-primary classes (LKG/UKG), which many government schools lack, influencing decisions right from the start.

In contrast, government school classrooms sometimes face challenges with infrastructure and resources.

Government’s Efforts to Turn the Tide

The Karnataka government is actively addressing these issues:

• Expanding bilingual (Kannada-English) sections and pre-primary classes.
• Upgrading schools to “KPS Magnet Schools” with better facilities, English medium, and comprehensive education from LKG to Class 12/PU.
• Investing in computer labs, smart classrooms, and infrastructure improvements.
• Launching awareness campaigns to promote government schools.

Some flagship Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) are already outperforming private ones in enrolments, drawing students with free, high-quality education.

Examples of Karnataka Public School buildings and facilities.

Looking Ahead

The 2025-26 enrolment data reflects deep-rooted perceptions about quality and opportunities. While private schools dominate early admissions, the government’s reforms—particularly the KPS model—show promise in reversing the trend. If sustained, these efforts could make government schools the preferred choice again, ensuring equitable access to quality education for all children in Karnataka.