Looking for the Best colleges in Dehradun? From engineering to arts, Dehradun is a hotspot for quality education and career opportunity. In this guide, we list the top 10 colleges in Dehradun based on Ranking, infrastructure, placement records, and academic excellence. The Colleges are:
College Name
Type
Popular Courses
NIRF/Other Rank
Fees (approx.)
Indian Military Academy (IMA)
Government
Military Training
Ranked among top defence academies
N/A (Govt-funded)
Forest Research Institute (FRI)
Government
M.Sc Forestry, Environmental Mgmt
Deemed University, NAAC A+
₹1-1.5 Lakh per year
DIT University
Private
B.Tech, MBA, B.Pharm, B.Des
NAAC A, Ranked by Outlook, TOI
₹1.5-2 Lakh per year
Graphic Era (Deemed to be University)
Private
B.Tech, MBA, BCA, BBA, Hotel Mgmt
NIRF 89 (Univ. category, 2023)
₹2-3.5 Lakh per year
UPES (University of Petroleum & Energy Studies)
Private
B.Tech, Law, Design, MBA
NIRF 52 (Univ. category, 2023)
₹3-4 Lakh per year
Tulas Institute
Private
B.Tech, MBA, BBA, BCA
Ranked by India Today & TOI
₹1.2-2.5 Lakh per year
Doon University
Government
MBA, M.Sc, MA, Mass Comm, Economics
State Govt. University, NAAC B++
₹30K–₹60K per year
IMS Unison University
Private
Law, Management, Mass Comm, BBA
Ranked by India Today & The Week
₹1.2-2 Lakh per year
Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University
Private
B.Tech, MBA, Pharmacy, Agriculture
NAAC A, Ranked by Times & Outlook
₹1.2-2.5 Lakh per year
BFIT (Baba Farid Institute of Technology)
Private
B.Sc, BBA, MBA, Agriculture, IT
Affiliated to HNB Garhwal University
₹60K–₹1.5 Lakh per year
Top 10 Colleges in Dehradun In Detail
1. Indian Military Academy(IMA)
Category
Details
Overview
IMA is a top military training institute for Indian Army officers. It focuses on physical, mental, and leadership training to prepare cadets for Army life.
Established Year
1932.
Affiliation & Accreditation
The IMA is affiliated with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) for certain academic programs like the Army Cadet College (ACC).
Popular Courses Offered
Courses include Regular Entry (through NDA/CDS), Technical Graduate Course (TGC), University Entry Scheme (UES), and Army Cadet College (ACC).
Eligibility & Admission Process
After 12th grade, candidates can join via NDA, and after graduation, they can join through CDS. Entry is also possible through ACC (serving soldiers) and TGC (engineering graduates). Medical tests, SSB interviews, and the UPSC exam are all part of the selection process.
Infrastructure & Facilities
On its expansive 1,400-acre campus, IMA features state-of-the-art classrooms, a library, sports facilities, a gym, a swimming pool, a horseback ride, museums, and hobby clubs. It also features hostel blocks, stables, and a helipad.
Placement Records
After training, cadets are directly commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army. Recently, over 400 Indian cadets and 30+ foreign cadets passed out in one batch.
Location
IMA is located in Prem Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, about 8 km from the city center, near the foothills of the Himalayas.
2. Forest Research Institute (FRI)
Category
Details
Overview
FRI is a top forestry research and education institute in India. It provides training and postgraduate courses in wood science, forestry, and the environment. It also functions as a national hub for research and development related to forests.
Established Year
The institute was founded in 1906 and became a Deemed University in 1991.
Affiliation & Accreditation
The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change oversees ICFRE (Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education), which is where FRI operates. UGC has authorized it as a Deemed University.
Popular Courses Offered
FRI offers M.Sc. programs in Forestry, Wood Science & Technology, Environment Management, and Cellulose & Paper Technology. It also offers Ph.D. programs and diplomas.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admission to M.Sc. courses is based on an entrance exam conducted by the FRI Deemed University. For Ph.D. programs, candidates must pass a test and interview.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The 450-hectare campus features a state-of-the-art lab, research center, museum, hostel, botanical garden, sports grounds, a large library, and a grand building from the British era.
Placement Records
FRI has good placement rates. Courses like Wood Science & Technology have nearly 100% placements. Average salary ranges between ₹3 LPA to ₹7 LPA, depending on the field and experience.
Location
FRI is located on Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun, around 7 km from the city center. It is surrounded by forests and hills, offering a peaceful and green learning environment.
3. DIT University
Category
Details
Overview
A renowned private university in Dehradun, DIT University provides instruction in computer applications, engineering, management, design, and pharmacy. It emphasizes creativity, industry-relevant skills, and high-quality education.
Established Year
1998
Affiliation & Accreditation
DIT University is recognized by UGC and approved by AICTE, Council of Architecture (COA), and Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). It is accredited by NAAC with an A grade and holds a QS I-GAUGE Diamond rating.
Popular Courses Offered
The university offers programs such as B.Tech, M.Tech, MBA, BBA, BCA, MCA, B.Des, B.Arch, B.Pharm, and Ph.D. in various disciplines.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admissions are based on entrance exams like JEE Main (for B.Tech), NATA (for B.Arch), CAT/MAT/CMAT/XAT (for MBA), and GATE (for M.Tech). Some courses also admit students through merit and interviews.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The campus, which spans 25 acres, has modern labs, smart classrooms, a central library, high-speed internet, sports facilities, a medical center, cafeterias, auditoriums, and innovation labs.
Placement Records
The university has a strong placement record with a 95%+ placement rate. Top packages go up to ₹58 LPA, average for B.Tech is around ₹5.6 LPA, and for MBA is ₹7.2 LPA. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Deloitte, IBM, and Adobe recruit from here.
Location
DIT University is located on Mussoorie Diversion Road, Makkawala, about 12 km from Dehradun railway station and 25 km from Jolly Grant Airport, in a peaceful and green environment.
4. Graphic Era (Deemed to be University)
Category
Details
Overview
Located in Dehradun, Graphic Era University is a reputable private university. It started out as an engineering and technology-focused institute before growing into a full-fledged university with a broad curriculum. It is renowned for its emphasis on innovation and research, industry partnerships, and academic excellence.
Established Year
The university was originally founded in 1997 as Graphic Era Institute of Technology. It was granted the status of a Deemed-to-be University in the year 2008.
Affiliation & Accreditation
In addition to being approved by organizations like the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), Council of Architecture (COA), AICTE, and NAAC (A+ Grade), the university is recognized by the UGC. It also offers a number of NBA-accredited programs.
Popular Courses Offered
Graphic Era offers a variety of programs including B.Tech, M.Tech, MBA, BBA, BCA, MCA, B.Sc, M.Sc, B.Arch, B.Des, B.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Ph.D. in several disciplines such as engineering, computer science, management, pharmacy, design, and more.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admissions are based on merit and scores from entrance exams like JEE Main for B.Tech, CAT/MAT/XAT for MBA, GATE for M.Tech, and NATA for architecture. For some courses, the university conducts its own entrance test. Shortlisted candidates may also need to appear for interviews.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The campus, which spans about 25 to 30 acres, has smart classrooms, state-of-the-art labs, a digital library, seminar halls, male and female dorms, cafeterias, sports facilities, innovation hubs, and medical support. The campus offers a student-friendly environment and is equipped with Wi-Fi.
Placement Records
Graphic Era has a good placement track record, especially for engineering and computer science branches. The average package for B.Tech students is around ₹5–6 LPA, with top offers reaching ₹40–₹50 LPA. Leading companies such as Amazon, Adobe, Deloitte, TCS, and Wipro visit the campus every year.
Location
The university is located in Clement Town, Dehradun, surrounded by green landscapes. It is about 8–10 km from the city center and well connected by road. The environment is peaceful, making it suitable for academic and personal growth.
5. UPES (University of Petroleum & Energy Studies)
Category
Details
Overview
A private university in Dehradun, UPES was founded to offer education with an industry focus, particularly in the energy and related fields. It provides courses in engineering, law, business, design, and other fields that are focused on careers.
Established Year
2003
Affiliation & Accreditation
UPES is recognized by UGC, accredited with an ‘A’ grade by NAAC, and several programs are approved by NBA, BCI, and PCI.
Popular Courses Offered
Offers a range of courses like B.Tech (Petroleum, CSE, AI), BBA, MBA, LLB, B.Des, BCA, M.Tech, and Ph.D. across various specializations.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admission is based on 10+2 marks and entrance tests like UPESEAT, JEE Main, CAT, MAT, or university-specific tests, followed by interviews for some programs.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The university boasts an extensive campus with state-of-the-art labs, libraries, food courts, a gym, modern classrooms, medical facilities, Wi-Fi, and shuttle services.
Placement Records
UPES has maintained around 90% placement rate. Average packages range from ₹6–7 LPA, with some top placements exceeding ₹30 LPA in tech and business fields.
Location
Located in Bidholi, Dehradun, about 10 km from the city center, the campus is surrounded by scenic hills, offering a peaceful learning environment.
6. Tulas Institute
Category
Details
Overview
A private university in Dehradun, Tula’s Institute is renowned for providing education in applied sciences, engineering, management, and agriculture that is relevant to the industry. The institute is renowned for its rigorous learning environment, practical exposure, and academic focus.
Established Year
2006
Affiliation & Accreditation
Tula’s Institute is affiliated with Uttarakhand Technical University (UTU) and Sri Dev Suman University. It is approved by AICTE and accredited by NAAC with a good rating.
Popular Courses Offered
The institute offers programs like B.Tech (CSE, ME, CE, ECE, EE), BBA, MBA, BCA, B.Sc. (Agriculture), M.Tech, MCA, and BJMC.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admissions are based on merit or entrance exams. B.Tech requires 10+2 with PCM and a valid JEE Main/UKSEE score. For MBA, graduation and CAT/MAT scores are considered. Direct admission is also offered in some programs.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The campus is spread across 22 acres and includes modern classrooms, computer labs, a digital library, auditorium, hostels, sports facilities, medical care, cafeteria, and campus-wide Wi-Fi.
Placement Records
The college has a good placement record with an average package of ₹4–5 LPA. Companies like TCS, Wipro, Adobe, Capgemini, and others recruit from here. Some students have received packages up to ₹15 LPA.
Location
Tula’s Institute is located at Dhoolkot, Selaqui, on Chakrata Road, about 20 km from Dehradun city. The surroundings offer a peaceful and green environment for learning.
7. Doon University
Category
Details
Overview
Doon University is a state public university located in Dehradun. Known for its serene environment and academic excellence, it aims to offer high-quality education and promote research in various disciplines. It focuses on language studies, environmental sciences, management, and media.
Established Year
The university was established in the year 2005 by the Government of Uttarakhand under the Doon University Act. Academic activities started in 2009.
Affiliation & Accreditation
Doon University functions as a state government university and has been approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC). It offers degrees that have been approved by the UGC and adheres to higher education standards.
Popular Courses Offered
The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as Environmental Science, Media & Communication, Management, Computer Science, Economics, Social Sciences, and Foreign Languages like German, Chinese, and Spanish.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admission is based on merit and entrance tests conducted by the university. For UG courses, candidates must have passed 10+2. For PG programs, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required. Some programs may also require interviews or subject-specific tests.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The 52-acre campus features state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, a library with a wealth of resources, computer centers, seminar halls, sports facilities, separate dorms for boys and girls, a medical center, a cafeteria, and Wi-Fi. It offers a calm learning environment.
Placement Records
The average package ranges from ₹3.5 to ₹6.5 LPA, depending on the course and student performance.
Location
Doon University is located on Mothrowala Road, Kedarpur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The campus lies amidst natural surroundings, around 8 km from the city center.
8. IMS Unison University
Category
Details
Overview
IMS Unison University (IUU) is a private university located in Dehradun. The university, which is well-known for emphasizing professional growth and academic excellence, provides a wide variety of courses in subjects like liberal arts, management, law, media, and hospitality.
Established Year
Originally established as IMS in 1996, it gained university status in 2013 and became IMS Unison University.
Affiliation & Accreditation
AICTE, BCI, and the UGC have all approved IUU (for law). Additionally, it belongs to the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
Popular Courses Offered
Key programs include BBA, B.Com (Hons.), BA (Journalism & Mass Comm.), MBA, LLB, LLM, and Ph.D. courses.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Class 12 or graduation scores are used to determine admission. CLAT scores are accepted for law courses. University-level entrance exams or in-person interviews may be necessary for certain programs.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The university has a large campus with modern classrooms, a digital library, computer labs, moot court, media labs, sports facilities, hostels, canteen, auditorium, Wi-Fi, and campus transport.
Placement Records
The university maintains over 90% placement rate in various programs. Top recruiters include Wipro, Infosys, HDFC, Axis Bank, Decathlon, and Times of India. Average packages range from ₹4 to ₹6 LPA, with some going as high as ₹15 LPA.
Location
Located at Makkawala Greens, Mussoorie Diversion Road, Dehradun. The campus is well-connected to the city center, about 10–12 km from Dehradun Railway Station and ~35 km from Jolly Grant Airport.
9. Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University
Category
Details
Overview
Dev Bhoomi Offering a broad range of courses in engineering, management, pharmacy, agriculture, and other fields, Uttarakhand University is a private university located in Dehradun. It emphasizes academic achievement with a strong focus on industry.
Established Year
2005
Affiliation & Accreditation
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has acknowledged DBUU, and AICTE, PCI, COA, and other statutory bodies have approved its professional programs.
Popular Courses Offered
The university offers programs such as B.Tech, M.Tech, MBA, BBA, BCA, B.Pharm, B.Sc Agriculture, B.Des, B.Arch, Law, Nursing, and Allied Health Sciences.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admissions are mostly based on merit. For some programs like B.Tech, JEE scores are considered. Students can apply online and may need to attend interviews or counseling.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The campus is spread over 42 acres and includes smart classrooms, tech-enabled labs, libraries, hostels, medical care, canteen, sports complexes, Wi-Fi, auditorium, and transportation.
Placement Records
The university claims over 80% placement rates. Average packages range between ₹4 to ₹6 LPA. Top recruiters include Infosys, Wipro, TCS, Amazon, Deloitte, and others.
Location
DBUU is located in Manduwala, Chakrata Road, Dehradun.
10. BFIT (Baba Farid Institute of Technology)
Category
Details
Overview
Reputable private college BFIT in Dehradun provides career-focused courses in media, management, science, and technology. It emphasizes exposure to the industry and practical skills.
Established Year
2002
Affiliation & Accreditation
BFIT is affiliated with Uttarakhand Technical University, Sri Dev Suman University, and approved by AICTE, UGC, and other relevant bodies.
Popular Courses Offered
Key programs include B.Tech, B.Sc Agriculture, BCA, BBA, MBA, Mass Communication, Hotel Management, and Environmental Science.
Eligibility & Admission Process
Admission is based on academic merit. For technical programs like B.Tech, JEE scores are accepted. Other courses require Class 12 pass and may include a personal interview or direct entry.
Infrastructure & Facilities
Modern classrooms, labs, computer centers, dorms, sports facilities, libraries, Wi-Fi, transportation, and a cafeteria are all on campus. The surroundings are serene and verdant.
Placement Records
BFIT provides training and placement support. Many students are placed in sectors like IT, management, hospitality, and media. Companies like Wipro, Amazon, and HDFC Bank visit for recruitment.
Location
BFIT is located in Suddhowala, near Chakrata Road, Dehradun. It’s around 10 km from the main city, surrounded by natural greenery.
Top Engineering Colleges in Dehradun
College Name
Type
Popular Courses
NIRF/Other Rank
Fees (Approx./Year)
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR)
Government
B.Tech, M.Tech, Ph.D.
NIRF Rank: 5 (2024)
₹2,00,000
University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun
BA (Hons) Political Science, English, Legal Studies
QS Ranked, NAAC A Grade
₹2,00,000 – ₹3,50,000
IMS Unison University
Private
BA (Hons) English, Economics, Sociology
NAAC Accredited, UGC Approved
₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000
BFIT Group of Institutions
Private
BA, MA, Mass Communication, Sociology
NAAC Accredited
₹40,000 – ₹80,000
Tula’s Institute
Private
BA (Journalism), MA, BFA
NAAC Accredited
₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
Uttaranchal University
Private
BA (Hons) English, Political Science, MA
NAAC A+ Grade, UGC Recognized
₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000
Himgiri Zee University
Private
BA Journalism & Mass Comm, MA, BA Sociology
UGC Recognized
₹40,000 – ₹80,000
Sai Group of Institutions
Private
BA (Psychology, Sociology), MA
UGC Approved
₹35,000 – ₹60,000
Alpine Group of Institutions
Private
BA, MA, Mass Communication
UGC Approved
₹30,000 – ₹60,000
Top Science College in Dehradun
College Name
Type
Popular Science Courses
Accreditation / Rank
Fees (Approx./Year)
Doon University
Government
B.Sc (Maths, Physics, Chemistry, CS), M.Sc
NAAC A Grade, State Govt. Univ.
₹10,000 – ₹35,000
Graphic Era University
Private
B.Sc (IT, PCM, Biotechnology), M.Sc
NAAC A+, NIRF 89
₹1,00,000 – ₹1,80,000
BFIT Group of Institutions
Private
B.Sc (Microbiology, Biotech, Forestry, IT), M.Sc
NAAC Accredited, UGC Approved
₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000
HNB Garhwal Central University (Dehradun Campus)
Government
B.Sc (Maths, Physics, Life Sciences), M.Sc
Central University, UGC Approved
₹5,000 – ₹15,000
DIT University (School of Applied Sciences)
Private
B.Sc (Maths, Physics, Statistics, CS), M.Sc
NAAC A+ Grade
₹1,20,000 – ₹2,00,000
Uttaranchal University
Private
B.Sc (IT, Chemistry, Agriculture, CS), M.Sc
NAAC A+ Grade, UGC Approved
₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000
Tula’s Institute
Private
B.Sc (CS, Microbiology), M.Sc (Biotech)
NAAC Accredited
₹70,000 – ₹1,20,000
Dolphin PG Institute of Biomedical & Natural Sciences
Private
B.Sc (Biotech, Microbiology, Agriculture), M.Sc
UGC Approved, NAAC Accredited
₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000
Sai Group of Institutions
Private
B.Sc (Nutrition, Biotech, Agriculture), M.Sc
UGC Recognized
₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000
Alpine Group of Institutions
Private
B.Sc (Agriculture, Forestry, Biotechnology)
UGC Approved
₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
College Life in Dehradun Cost Of Living for Student
Tucked away in the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun provides a revitalizing fusion of learning and the outdoors. Its reputable universities and calm, secure, and student-friendly atmosphere draw students from all over India.
Cost of Living for a Student in Dehradun (Monthly Estimate)
Expense Category
Estimated Monthly Cost (₹)
Hostel/PG Rent
₹4,000 – ₹10,000
Food (Messes / Cooking)
₹2,500 – ₹4,000
Transportation
₹500 – ₹1,000
Mobile & Internet
₹300 – ₹600
Study Materials
₹500 – ₹1,000
Leisure & Outings
₹1,000 – ₹2,000
Miscellaneous (Laundry, etc.)
₹500 – ₹1,000
Total
₹9,000 – ₹19,000/month
Types of Accommodation
Type
Average Cost/month
Includes
College Hostel
₹4,000 – ₹8,000
Meals, Laundry (sometimes)
Private PG
₹5,000 – ₹10,000
Meals, Wi-Fi, Furnished Room
Rented Flat
₹6,000 – ₹12,000+
Utilities separate, ideal for groups
Why Students Love Dehradun
Clean & green surroundings
Pleasant weather year-round
Affordable compared to metros
Quality education + peaceful lifestyle
Conclusion
Dehradun is among the greatest student cities in India because it provides the deal fusion of high-quality education, reasonably priced housing, and a tranquil lifestyle. The city is home to a number of highly regarded universities with state-of-the-art facilities and knowledgeable faculty, regardless of your field of study—science, business, management, or the arts.
Living expenses are reasonably priced, particularly when compared to major cities, and range from ₹9,000 to ₹19,000 per month, which includes lodging, food, transportation, and other necessities. .
Dehradun is definitely a wise and healthy option for students seeking a city that strikes a balance between education and a calm lifestyle.
FAQ’s- About Top Colleges In Dehradun
Which is the No.1 college in Dehradun?
UPES and Graphic Era are top private colleges. Among government options, Doon University ranks highest.
What are the top government colleges in Dehradun?
Doon University, Government Doon Medical College, and HNB Garhwal University (Dehradun Campus).
How to get admission in top colleges of Dehradun?
Through merit, entrance exams (like JEE, NEET, CLAT, etc.), or university-level tests.
Are there good placement opportunities in Dehradun?
Yes, top colleges like UPES, Graphic Era, and DBS offer strong placements in tech, business, and media.
What is the average fee of a good college in Dehradun?
₹10,000 – ₹50,000/year for government colleges; ₹1 – ₹3.5 lakh/year for top private colleges.