ICSE Class 10 Subject Groups: Group I, II, III and How to Choose
ICSE organises its curriculum into three groups. Understanding this structure is essential for choosing subjects in Class 9 (which feeds into the Class 10 board exam) and for calculating your ICSE aggregate correctly.
Group I contains the compulsory subjects that every ICSE student must take. Groups II and III offer choices, though your school's offerings determine which options are actually available to you.
ICSE subject group structure
| Group | Compulsory or Optional | Core subjects and choices |
|---|---|---|
| Group I | Compulsory for all students | English Language, Second Language (Hindi or a regional language), History & Civics, Geography |
| Group II | Mandatory to take subjects from this group; choices vary by school | Mathematics, Science (Physics/Chemistry/Biology — these may be combined or separate), Computer Applications, Commercial Studies, Economics, Economic Applications, Environmental Science, Home Science, and others |
| Group III | Optional/elective including SUPW | Technical Drawing, Performing Arts, Commercial Applications, Computer Applications (if not in Group II), Fashion Designing, Home Science (if not in Group II), SUPW (Socially Useful Productive Work and Community Service), and others |
Subject availability depends on your school. Confirm exact combinations with your school and the official CISCE Regulations & Syllabuses.
Best-of-five percentage for college: For certain college admissions and merit calculations, the ICSE best-of-five percentage is used. The calculation takes the best five subjects from your result, typically including English. Confirm the exact method with each institution you are applying to.
Frequently asked questions
Is it compulsory to take Mathematics in ICSE?
Mathematics is part of Group II, from which you must choose subjects. However, whether Mathematics is compulsory depends on your school's subject offerings and the combinations permitted by the current CISCE Regulations. Check with your school.
What does SUPW mean and is it assessed?
SUPW stands for Socially Useful Productive Work and Community Service. It is a Group III component in ICSE and is assessed by the school, not through a written board examination. It is a mandatory curriculum requirement.