Education is a fundamental aspect of human development, and schools play a crucial role in shaping the future of individuals and societies. While schools come in various sizes and capacities, some institutions stand out for their sheer magnitude. In this article, we will explore the top 10 largest schools in the world, examining their impressive infrastructures and the impact they have on education globally.
World’s Largest School 2024
Established in 1959, City Montessori School in Lucknow, India, holds the title of the world’s largest school, boasting a student enrollment of over 55,000 from preschool to high school. Renowned for its progressive educational methods, the institution has garnered accolades for fostering peace and tolerance among its diverse student community. The school’s commitment to excellence has earned it numerous awards, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in education.
Key Facts Related to the Largest School in the World
Here are some of the key facts related to City Montessori School, biggest school in the world:
City Montessori School (CMS) in Lucknow, India, founded in 1959 by Bharti Gandhi and Dr. Jagdish Gandhi, is the world’s largest school with 55,547 students as per the Guinness Book of World Records.
Accredited as an affiliated NGO with the United Nations Department of Public Information in 2014.
Jagdish Gandhi and Dr. Bharti Gandhi started CMS with just 5 children in 1959, now known as the Station Road Branch.
The school has multiple campuses across Lucknow, emphasizing values with houses named Love, Hope, Unity, and Peace.
CMS received the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education in 2002 and the ‘Hope of Humanity’ Award from the Dalai Lama.
The school organizes Model United Nations (CMSMUN) and participates in global events, promoting peace and harmony.
Introduced Students’ Quality Circles (SQC) concept, recognized globally and adopted by numerous countries.
CMS became a SAT center in Uttar Pradesh in 2013, facilitating students’ aspirations for US universities.
Involved in a controversy in 2015 regarding the admission of economically weaker section students under the Right to Education Act.
CMS actively engages in social initiatives, including pen friend projects and cultural events, fostering Indo-Pak friendship.
Notable alumni include Lucky Ali, Celina Jaitly, Urfi Javed, Acharya Prashant, and Brijeshwar Singh.
The school faced challenges, such as fee hikes, controversies, and legal issues, maintaining its reputation as a prominent educational institution.
CMS students showcased yoga at the United Nations and organized international music concerts, demonstrating a diverse and vibrant school culture.
Several students from CMS have excelled in recent CISCE Examinations, reflecting the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
Significance of World’s Biggest School
The world’s largest school, City Montessori School (CMS) in Lucknow, India, signifies unparalleled impact, innovation, and cultural diversity. With over 55,000 students, CMS pioneers educational excellence, recognized by awards like the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education. Its global initiatives, Model United Nations, and renowned alumni contribute to fostering global citizenship and positioning CMS as a leader in education on an international scale.
Here is the list of top-10 biggest schools in the world:
| LARGEST SCHOOLS IN THE WORLD | |||
| Rank | School | Location | Student Population |
| 1. | City Montessori School (CMS) | Lucknow, India | 55,000 |
| 2. | Uttar Pradesh Board | State of Uttar Pradesh, India | 31 million |
| 3. | Anuban Nakhon Ratchasima School | Thailand | 28,000 |
| 4. | Ambedkar Nagar Government Girls Inter College | Uttar Pradesh, India | 25,000 |
| 5. | Education Department of Henan Province | Henan Province, China | 23 million |
| 6. | Education Department of Bihar | Bihar, India | 20 million |
| 7. | Rong Qiao Sedun School | Fuzhou, China | 19,000 |
| 8. | Brooklyn Technical High School | New York City, USA | 8,000 |
| 9. | Westlake Girls High School | Auckland, New Zealand | 2,500 |
| 10. | Phillips Exeter Academy | New Hampshire, USA | 1,000 |
World’s Biggest School – City Montessori School (CMS)
Location: Lucknow, India
Established in 1959, City Montessori School in Lucknow, India, holds the distinction of being the world’s largest school, accommodating over 55,000 students from preschool to high school. Renowned for its progressive educational methods, the institution has garnered awards and acclaim for fostering peace and tolerance within its diverse student community.
Second Biggest School in the World – Uttar Pradesh Board
Location: Uttar Pradesh, India
The Uttar Pradesh Board of Education in India stands as the second-largest “school” globally, overseeing a vast network of schools throughout Uttar Pradesh. Governing thousands, it boasts a staggering student enrollment surpassing 31 million, a scale comparable to California’s population. The board manages high school, intermediate exams, and various educational initiatives.
Third Largest School in the World – Anuban Nakhon Ratchasima School
Location: Thailand
Ranking as the third-largest school globally, Anuban Nakhon Ratchasima School in Thailand boasts an impressive enrollment of over 28,000 students. Renowned for its innovative educational methods, the institution emphasizes the cultivation of creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among its diverse student body.
