Breakdown of The List of The Best Colleges in India: Know About Fees, Eligibility, Courses Offered, and Much More!

India is home to a diverse and dynamic education system with a plethora of colleges and universities spread across the country. With over 1,000 universities and more than 40,000 colleges, India offers an abundance of options for students seeking higher education. But which is the best college in India or how to select the best college in India, is a daunting task. The best colleges in India have witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years, with the emergence of new colleges and universities and the adoption of modern teaching techniques. The demand for quality education in India has also increased, leading to the rise of several prestigious institutions that offer world-class education and facilities.

As a result, choosing the right college for higher education can be a daunting task for students and parents alike. In this blog, we will explore the best colleges in India that offer excellent education, infrastructure, and placement opportunities. We shall also be looking at the best colleges in India in different sectors like engineering, medicine, and arts and humanities. Before choosing one of the best colleges in India, students must ensure that they make an informed decision that aligns with their career aspirations and goals. 

So, let’s dive in and explore the best colleges in India that can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career.

List of top colleges in India

The Indian higher education landscape is experiencing rapid growth with the addition of new colleges and universities each year. In the past, government colleges were the primary choice for students, but today, numerous private institutions are catering to the burgeoning demand for education across India.

Both public and private institutions in India offer top-notch education, and some renowned names like Hindu College, St. Xavier’s College, Presidency College, Miranda House, and PSGR Krishnammal College for Women are celebrated for their exceptional academic systems, training facilities, and research opportunities. For students seeking the best colleges in India in 2024 after completing their 12th grade, this ranking list will serve as a valuable guide to pave the way for a promising and bright future.

Here’s is the list of best colleges in India based on ranking and recognition received from NIRF: 

Name	Location	Score	NIRF Ranking (College 2023)
Miranda House	Delhi	74.81	1
Hindu College	Delhi	72.39	2
Presidency College	Chennai	71.18	3
PSGR Krishnammal College for Women	Coimbatore	71.05	4
St. Xavier`s College	Kolkata	70.80	5
Atma Ram Sanatan Dharm College	New Delhi	70.78	6
Loyola College	Chennai	70.46	7
Rama Krishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College	Kolkata	69.53	8
Kirori Mal College	Delhi	69.32	9
Lady Shri Ram College For Women	New Delhi	69.32	9
Shri Ram College of Commerce	Delhi	68.86	11
Hans Raj College	Delhi	68.42	12
Sri Venkateswara College	Delhi	67.89	13
St. Stephens’s College	Delhi	67.83	14
Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira	Howrah	67.38	15
Madras Christian College	Chennai	66.61	16
Deshbandhu College	New Delhi	65.22	17
Thiagarajar College	Madurai	65.08	18
Ramakrishna Mission Residential College	Kolkata	65.05	19
PSG College of Arts and Science	Coimbatore	64.61	20
Acharya Narendra Dev College	New Delhi	63.85	21
Lady Irwin College	Delhi	63.59	22
Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences	New Delhi	63.59	22
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College	New Delhi	63.42	24
St. Joseph’s College	Tiruchirappalli	62.48	25
University College, Thiruvananthapuram	Thiruvananthapuram	62.25	26
V.O. Chidambaram College	Tuticorin	62.14	27
Daulat Ram College	Delhi	61.95	28
Kongunadu Arts & Science College	Coimbatore	61.56	29
Rajagiri College of Social Sciences	Ernakulam	61.30	30

About the top 10 best colleges in India

The following section will help you in exploring the in-depth information about the top 10 colleges in India mentioned above. So, let’s get started… 

Miranda House

Miranda House is renowned for its excellence in women’s education. It is one of the most famous colleges in India. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in arts and sciences. The college consistently ranks among the top colleges in India. Known for its vibrant academic atmosphere, it encourages critical thinking and research.

1. Courses Offered: BA; BA Hons; B.Sc. Hons; B.Sc.; B.El.Ed.; MA; M.Sc.; Foreign Language Courses; Short Duration Certification Courses like Computer Applications; Computer Applications for Visually Challenged Students; 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course for BA its’ Rs. 14,160 (for the whole course) and for B.Sc. Hons it’s somewhere around Rs. 17,000 to 20,000 (for the whole course) for MA – Rs. 14,000 to Rs. 20,000 (for the whole course). Check the official website for a complete overview. 
3. Type of University/College: Government College

Hindu College

Hindu College is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges affiliated with the University of Delhi. Do you know the University of Delhi got 2nd rank as per India Today’s Best Colleges 2023 ranking? It is renowned for its strong academic programs in science, humanities, and commerce. The college also emphasizes extracurricular activities, fostering holistic development.

1. Courses Offered: BA; B.Sc.; B.Com; MA; M.Sc; M.Com; among others. 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 (for the whole course)
3. Type of University/College: Government College

Presidency College

Presidency College, now known as Presidency University, is a prestigious institution in Chennai. It has a rich history and offers a diverse range of programs in arts and sciences. The college is known for its academic rigor and contribution to research.

1. Courses Offered: M.Phil; M.Sc.; Ph.D.; MA; B.Sc; BA; BCA; B.Com; among others. 
2. Fees: The total cost for the program is different for different categories.
3. Type of University/College: Private College

PSGR Krishnammal College for Women

PSGR Krishnammal College for Women is a leading women’s college in Coimbatore. It excels in various undergraduate and postgraduate programs and promotes gender equality and empowerment through education.

1. Courses Offered: B.Com; BBA; BA; B.Sc.; B.Voc.; M.Sc.; MA; BCA; among others. 
2. Fees: The total cost for the program is different for different categories. 
3. Type of University/College: Private College

St. Xavier’s College

St. Xavier’s College is renowned for its quality education and holistic development. It is also known as India’s top college. Located in various cities in India, it offers a wide array of courses and fosters a strong sense of community and social responsibility among its students.

1. Courses Offered: BA; B.Com (Hons); B.Sc. (Hons); B.Sc.; M.Com; BBA; B.Ed., among others. 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around Rs. 5000 to Rs. 62,000 per semester. For more information refer to this bulletin  https://admissions.sxccal.edu/ug2023/download/FEE%20STRUCTURE%20FOR%201ST%20YEAR%20STUDENTS(U.G)SESSION%202023-2024.pdf
3. Type of University/College: Private College

Atma Ram Sanatan Dharm College

ARSD College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, offers a diverse range of courses in arts, sciences, and commerce. It is known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life.

1. Courses Offered: B.Com; B.Sc.; B.Sc. (Hons); BA (Hons); among others. 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around Rs. 14,000 to Rs. 17,000. 
3. Type of University/College: Government College. 

Loyola College

Loyola College in Chennai is celebrated for its academic excellence and commitment to social justice. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs and promotes holistic development through various extracurricular activities.

1. Courses Offered: Ph.D; BA; M.Sc.; M.Voc.; M.Phil; B.Sc.; MSW; and several others. 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 80,000 per semester. For more information refer to this bulletin https://www.loyolacollege.edu/admission/FeeStructure.pdf
3. Type of University/College: Private College

Rama Krishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College

This institution is known for its values-based education and commitment to the teachings of Swami Vivekananda. It offers programs in various fields and emphasizes character development.

1. Courses Offered: M.Sc.; Ph.D.; 5 years integrated MA in Sanskrit; among others. 
2. Fees: NA
3. Type of University/College: Government College

Kirori Mal College

Kirori Mal College, part of the University of Delhi, is known for its academic achievements in arts and sciences. This is one of the best colleges in North Delhi. It has a vibrant campus life and encourages students to excel both academically and in extracurricular activities.

1. Courses Offered: BA; B.Com; B.Sc. (Hons); B.Com (Hons); B.Sc.; MA; in many specializations. 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around Rs. 10,000 to 15,000. For more information refer to this bulletin https://kmc.du.ac.in/staffcouncil/Fees_Data.pdf
3. Type of University/College: Government College

Lady Shri Ram College For Women

LSR College is a premier women’s college in Delhi known for its academic excellence and empowering women through education. It offers a wide range of programs and promotes leadership and social responsibility among its students.

1. Courses Offered: B.Sc. (Hons) – Mathematics & Statistics; B.Com and BA (Hons)
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around Rs. 15000 to Rs. 30000 per Year. For information refer to this official bulletin https://lsr.edu.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Fees-Admission-2022-23.pdf
3. Type of University/College: Private College. 

Eligibility & Admission Process

The eligibility and admission process for the best colleges in India encompass a multi-faceted approach, with various entrance exams and criteria. To secure a spot in these prestigious institutions, candidates typically follow these steps:

1. Entrance Exam Application: Prospective students must apply for the relevant entrance exams such as JEE, CUET, NEET, GATE, Institute or State Entrance Exams, or GMAT, depending on the course and institution they aspire to join.
2. Participation in Counselling: Successful exam takers then participate in counseling sessions where they have the opportunity to choose their preferred college and branch of study.
3. Joint Admission Committee: The Joint Admission Committee plays a pivotal role in determining admissions. They consider factors like the candidate’s category, seat availability, exam scores, and other criteria such as academic merit, work experience, and reservation policies.
4. Seat Allotment: The allocation of seats hinges on a combination of performance in entrance exams and the aforementioned factors. Additionally, the marks obtained in 10+2, 10+2+3, or 4 and degree programs can also be factored in.
5. Admission Confirmation: Candidates who secure a seat must pay the admission fee and formally accept their appointment to confirm their admission.

Please note, that the eligibility and admission process for the best colleges in India are rigorous and multifaceted. Success depends on a combination of entrance exam scores, academic performance, and other relevant criteria, ultimately culminating in the payment of the admission fee to secure a coveted seat in these esteemed institutions.

Also Read: Marine Engineering Colleges in India

List of scholarships for college students

To be able to acquire financial assistance for such courses and degree programs, undergraduate scholarships for Indian students are a great opportunity for undergraduate students. The following are some of the scholarships for Indian students at the college level:

1. Kishore Vaigyanik Prothsahan Yojana (KVPY)

• For Class 11, 12 (PCM/B), BSc 1st year, Integrated MSc 1st year students
• June to August

2. INSPIRE Scholarship For Higher Education (SHE)
   • For Class 12^th passed students who are pursuing BSc/BS/MS/Int. MSc course
   • November to December
3. Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme for Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Rifles
   • For students pursuing professional programs in graduation or postgraduation
   • August to December 
4. L&T Build India Scholarship
   • For the students who are in the final year of BE/BTech degree in Civil/Electrical Engineering
   • November to December
5. NBHM Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies in Mathematics
   • For those students who have graduated in Mathematics or who have enrolled for PG in Mathematics
   • June to July 

For more information refer to our – Scholarships for Students

Final words!

Several best colleges in India offer a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. The top colleges in India, such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and the National Law Schools, are highly ranked and renowned globally for their academic excellence.

However, the best college for an individual may vary depending on their interests, career goals, location, and budget. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and evaluate various factors before selecting a college. With the right guidance and effort, students can undoubtedly find the best college in India that suits their aspirations and paves the way for a successful career.

iDreamCareer provides a detailed list of the best colleges for those who are passionate about having a bright career. The information includes admission procedures, course offerings, fees, and other relevant details. Aspiring students can use this page to make an informed decision about their future. Don’t hesitate any longer! Check out iDreamCareer’s College Selection Program and take the first step toward your dream career.

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7. Best BA Colleges in India

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