Bishop Cotton School: A Legacy of Excellence Amid Recent Safety Concerns
Historic Background of Bishop Cotton School
News Media
Shimla:
Bishop Cotton School (BCS) in Shimla, renowned as Asia's oldest all-boys boarding school and the first public school in India, has recently gained attention after three students went missing but were located safely within a day.
This incident has sparked discussions regarding the safety measures in place during school excursions, while also highlighting the school's rich history and its current fee structure.
Established on July 28, 1859, by Bishop George Edward Lynch Cotton, BCS boasts a significant educational heritage.
As per the school's official website, Bishop Cotton was a Cambridge alumnus and previously taught at Rugby School before taking on the role of Master at Marlborough College. His vision for an English-style public school in India materialized in Shimla, with backing from the Diocese and the British Viceroy.
The institution welcomed its first students on March 15, 1863, initially operating from three private residences acquired through the India Public School Fund. Although it was informally referred to as the “Shimla Public School,” it never officially adopted that name. Today, BCS remains a prestigious residential school for boys from classes IV to XII.
Understanding the Fee Structure
Premium Education Comes at a Premium Cost
Bishop Cotton School charges a substantial annual fee for Indian nationals, reflecting its esteemed status and boarding amenities. The fee schedule for the 2025 academic year is as follows:
• Admission Fee (One-Time): Rs 65,000
• Caution Money (One-Time, Refundable): Rs 3,00,000
(Rs 25,000 is deducted for OCA Lifelong membership; Rs 2.75 lakh refunded upon leaving)
• Imprest Account (Annual): Rs 1,00,000
(Advance for personal billing for Classes IV to XII)
Annual Tuition Fee:
• Class IV-V: Rs 7,10,000
• Class VI-X: Rs 7,80,000
• Class XI-XII: Rs 8,35,000
Additionally, a pocket money deposit of Rs 20,000 is required for Classes VI-XII, to be deposited in the student’s personal account at the school’s bank counter on the day of joining, through the respective House Master or Matron.
For students with NRI or OCI status, the fee structure is notably higher:
• Admission Fee (One-Time): Rs 1,00,000
• Caution Money (One-Time, Refundable): Rs 3,00,000
(with the same Rs 25,000 deduction for OCA membership)
• Imprest Account (Annual): Rs 1,00,000
Annual Tuition Fee (Class IV-XII): Rs 11,60,000
The pocket money requirement remains unchanged at Rs 20,000 per annum, managed through the school’s designated banking system. The institution states that all fees are subject to change based on its internal policies.
The high costs reflect the school's heritage, facilities, residential environment, and its exclusive boarding education model inspired by British public schools. BCS has long been recognized as one of India's premier boarding schools, attracting students from across the nation and beyond.