Podar International School
Parent Insights Saraswati Rd, Santacruz (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400054
If you’re exploring schools in the Powai–Hiranandani area, Podar International School, Powai often comes up as a strong contender. It’s known for its modern infrastructure, dual curriculum options, and a structured academic environment. But like any school, it has its strengths and areas to look into — here’s a detailed, parent-friendly summary.
- ✦Innovation Lab with robotics and 3D printing
- ✦Sensory Spa for preschoolers — a rare feature in Mumbai schools
- ✦Offers both CBSE and CAIE curricula
Summary for Parents
Overview
- •Podar International School, Powai is a well-established day school offering both CBSE and Cambridge curricula in a modern, well-equipped campus.
- •It’s particularly strong in academics and technology-based learning, though parents should be mindful of the structured environment and fee-related clarity.
What kind of child will this school work for best
- •Children who thrive in structured, academically focused settings.
- •Kids interested in technology, robotics, and innovation.
- •Families looking for a reputed school with consistent teaching quality.
Strengths
- •Strong academic reputation and experienced leadership.
- •Modern infrastructure with innovation labs.
- •Dual curriculum options (CBSE and CAIE).
- •Good safety and transport systems.
- •Supportive early years program.
Potential trade-offs / Things to check
- •Limited sports ground space.
- •Some parents report high academic pressure.
- •Fee communication and transparency need improvement.
- •Administrative responsiveness can vary.
- •Extracurricular balance may depend on grade level.
Recommendations / Questions to Ask
- •Request a detailed written fee breakup, including refundable deposits.
- •Visit the campus to see sports and activity areas.
- •Ask about student well-being programs and counseling support.
- •Clarify class size and teacher allocation for your child’s grade.
- •Confirm transport routes, safety measures, and cancellation policies.
School Information
Board / Curriculum
ICSE, IB
Grades offered
Nursery - 10
Medium
English
Type
Co-ed
Students
~1,757
Student–Teacher Ratio
20:1
Boarding
Day school only
Established
2004
Pincode
400076
Leadership & Staff
- • Principal: Dr. Priya Rajwade (PhD) — 25 years teaching, 14 years administrative experience
Fees & Admissions
| Class / Category | Fee (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Podar Prep (Nursery–Sr.KG) - New Student | ₹2,15,670 | Includes tuition and term fees |
| Podar Prep (Nursery–Sr.KG) - Regular Student | ₹1,99,080 | Includes tuition and term fees |
| Primary (I–IV) - New Student | ₹2,15,670 | Includes tuition and term fees |
| Primary (I–IV) - Regular Student | ₹1,99,080 | Includes tuition and term fees |
| Secondary (V–X) - New Student | ₹1,96,170 | Includes tuition and term fees |
| Secondary (V–X) - Regular Student | ₹1,81,080 | Includes tuition and term fees |
| Secondary (V–X) - One-time admission fee | ₹13,420 | One-time admission fee (may apply) |
| Transport - New Student | Varies by route | Contact transport.powai@podar.org or 07045363367 |
| Transport - Regular Student | Varies by route | Contact transport.powai@podar.org or 07045363367 |
• Notes: Fees are from the official Fee Structure PDF.
• Always confirm the latest fee breakup, refundable deposits, and kit charges directly with the school.
• Transport and extracurricular fees are additional.
Admission Process for Interested Parents
How to Apply
- 1.Register online through the Podar Education Admissions Portal.
Admission Timeline
- 1.Rolling admissions; check the website for annual release dates.
Documents Required
- 1.Birth certificate
- 2.Aadhaar
- 3.School Leaving Certificate (if applicable)
- 4.UDISE number
- 5.Previous report card
- 6.Address proof
- 7.Parent PAN
- 8.Passport photos
- 9.Caste certificate (if applicable)
Confirmation
Admission is confirmed upon payment of the first term fee.
Contact for Queries
admissions@podar.org or +91 9511949667.
What Parents Say
Aggregated from parent reviews across platforms. Ask these questions during your school visit.
Academics
Positives
Parents consistently praise the school’s academic focus and teacher dedication. The dual curriculum (CBSE and CAIE) gives flexibility for different learning goals.
Watch out for
Some parents mention that the academic load, especially in higher grades, can feel intense for children.
Ask: Ask how the school balances academics with well-being and what support is available for students who need extra help.
Early Years
Positives
The preschool program is appreciated for its Sensory Spa and phonics-based learning. Teachers are described as warm and attentive.
Watch out for
A few parents felt communication about fees and activities could be clearer.
Ask: Check how often teachers update parents and what kind of feedback you’ll receive about your child’s progress.
Extracurriculars & Sports
Positives
The school offers robotics, art, and music clubs, which many children enjoy.
Watch out for
Several reviews mention limited sports ground space and high sports fees.
Ask: Visit the campus to see the sports area and ask if they use external grounds for training.
Administration & Communication
Positives
The school is well-organized and responsive during admissions.
Watch out for
Some parents have faced delays or strict fee reminders.
Ask: Ask for a written fee policy and escalation contact for administrative issues.
Safety & Transport
Positives
GPS-enabled buses and two lady attendants per bus are reassuring for parents.
Watch out for
No major safety concerns reported, but always good to verify.
Ask: Confirm the transport routes, timings, and safety protocols in person.
Campus & Facilities
~2025 sq. metres
Reviews from Other Platforms
Aggregated from public sources for reference. These are not verified by SchoolCompass.
What parents liked
"One of the best school in Mumbai where quality education is always their first priority... highly dedicated staff."
—
"Good school."
—
"Excellent."
—
Concerns raised
"Our child was informed that he won't be permitted to attend... if he does not pay his school fees in next 24 hours..."
—
"They only take fees but don't give proper facilities... took Rs. 25,000 annually for sports fees but they don't have their ground."
—
"School is good... but lot of pressure."
—
What Kind of Peer Group?
Age Range
From 2–3 years (Nursery) up to 17–18 years (Grade 12).
Family Backgrounds
Mostly children of professionals from the Powai–Hiranandani area — IT, finance, and corporate sectors.
Socio-economic Profile
Upper-middle to upper-income families.
Child Profiles
Academically inclined, tech-savvy, and comfortable in structured, English-speaking environments. Many students show interest in STEM and performing arts.
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