City Montessori School, based in Lucknow, India, has once again set a benchmark in education by being officially recognized as the world’s largest school in the world in terms of pupil enrollment. As of August 10, 2023, for the academic year 2023-2024, CMS proudly recorded an astonishing enrollment of 61,345 students, reaffirming its place in the Guinness World Records.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1959 by Dr. Jagdish Gandhi and Dr. Bharti Gandhi, CMS has grown exponentially over the decades. With a mission to inspire world peace through education, the school emphasizes holistic development, values-based education, and global citizenship. It operates with the belief that every child is unique and deserves personalized attention to achieve their full potential.
Expansive Campus Network
The remarkable enrollment is spread across 21 campuses in Lucknow, catering to students from pre-primary to senior secondary levels. CMS offers curricula such as the ISC, and Cambridge International programs, and soon a will have campuses with CBSE as well. The inclusion of international standards ensures that students are globally competitive while staying rooted in their cultural heritage.
What Makes CMS – World’s Largest School?
- Quality Education: CMS focuses on academic rigor combined with extracurricular activities to nurture well-rounded individuals.
- Global Recognition: The school’s unique approach to education has earned it international accolades, including the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education.
- Innovative Initiatives: CMS organizes events like the International Conference of Chief Justices of the World, showcasing its commitment to fostering a sense of global responsibility among its students.
- Student-Centric Policies: With a low teacher-student ratio, the school ensures that every child receives adequate attention and guidance.
Breaking Records: A Source of Pride
CMS first earned its Guinness World Records title in 1999 and has consistently maintained its position as the largest school globally. Achieving such milestones requires meticulous planning, visionary leadership, and the relentless efforts of its dedicated staff.
The school’s management attributes this success to the support of parents, the dedication of over 4,500 teachers & staff, and the tireless contributions of administrative staff. The infrastructure, spread across its 21 campuses, includes state-of-the-art classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities, ensuring a conducive learning environment.
Fostering Holistic Development
CMS believes education is more than just academics. It places significant emphasis on character building, moral education, and co-curricular activities. From debates and sports to music and art, the school encourages students to explore their talents and passions.
Embracing Diversity
One of the unique aspects of CMS is its inclusive environment. The student body represents diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. The school’s motto, “Jai Jagat”, reflects its commitment to promoting universal brotherhood.
Leveraging Technology for the Future
In recent years, CMS has integrated cutting-edge technology into its teaching methodologies. The use of smart classrooms, e-learning platforms, has enhanced the learning experience, ensuring students stay ahead in an increasingly digital world.
World’s Largest School Vision – World Peace
At the core of CMS’s philosophy is the belief that education is a tool for fostering global harmony. Through initiatives like the World Unity Education Department, the school imparts lessons on peace, sustainability, and ethical leadership.
City Montessori School’s achievement as the largest school in the world is not merely about numbers; it is a testament to its dedication to providing quality education and fostering global citizens. As the school continues to grow, it remains committed to its vision of inspiring students to lead with compassion, integrity, and a sense of responsibility towards society.
World’s Largest School Recognition was also given to CMS in 2019, 2010 and 1999 by Guinness World Records.



CMS stands as a beacon of educational excellence, proving that with the right vision and commitment, it is possible to make a lasting impact on the world. With a record enrollment of 61,345 students in the 2023-2024 academic year, CMS truly exemplifies the power of education to transform lives.