Top Best Schools in Dehradun 2026
Dehradun, nestled in the Doon Valley of Uttarakhand, is synonymous with elite education in India. Home to The Doon School, Welham Girls, Rashtriya Indian Military College, and dozens of reputed day schools, Dehradun attracts students from across the country seeking world-class education in a serene environment.
Why Dehradun is India's Education Capital
- Home to The Doon School — ranked India's #1 boarding school
- Welham Girls and Boys schools — prestigious CBSE institutions
- Pleasant Himalayan foothills climate ideal for learning
- Strong mix of day schools and residential/boarding schools
- Excellent results in CBSE and ICSE board examinations
Top Schools in Dehradun 2026
| School | Board | Type | Annual Fees | Est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Doon School | CBSE | Boarding (Boys) | Rs 10-14 Lakh | 1935 |
| Welham Girls School | CBSE | Boarding (Girls) | Rs 7-10 Lakh | 1957 |
| Welham Boys School | CBSE | Boarding (Boys) | Rs 7-10 Lakh | 1937 |
| St. Joseph's Academy | ICSE | Day + Boarding | Rs 1.5-3 Lakh | 1936 |
| Convent of Jesus and Mary | ICSE | Day (Girls) | Rs 80K-1.5 Lakh | 1895 |
| Delhi Public School Dehradun | CBSE | Day School | Rs 1-2 Lakh | 2000 |
| Brightlands School | CBSE | Boarding | Rs 4-6 Lakh | 1940 |
| Asian School | CBSE | Day + Boarding | Rs 1.5-3 Lakh | 1998 |
| Rashtriya Indian Military College | CBSE | Residential (Boys) | Rs 1.5-3 Lakh | 1922 |
School Categories in Dehradun
Elite Boarding Schools
The Doon School, Welham Girls, and Welham Boys are among India's top 5 boarding schools. Admission is competitive with entrance exams and limited seats. Annual fees range from Rs 7-14 Lakh.
Day Schools
Dehradun has excellent day schools like St. Joseph's Academy, DPS, and Convent of Jesus and Mary offering CBSE/ICSE curricula with moderate fees of Rs 80K-2 Lakh/year.
Admission Process
- Research school type (boarding vs. day) and board preference
- Apply online between August-January
- Entrance test for Class 6 and Class 9 entry
- Interaction with principal and selection panel
- Acceptance letter and fee deposit
Average School Fees in Dehradun
| Category | Annual Fees |
|---|---|
| Government Schools | Free - Rs 20,000 |
| Budget Day Schools | Rs 40,000 - Rs 80,000 |
| Mid-Range Day Schools | Rs 80,000 - Rs 2,00,000 |
| Premium Day Schools | Rs 2,00,000 - Rs 4,00,000 |
| Elite Boarding Schools | Rs 7,00,000 - Rs 14,00,000 |
FAQs
Q1. Which is the best school in Dehradun?
The Doon School (est. 1935) is widely regarded as the best boarding school in Dehradun and one of India's top schools overall. For day schools, St. Joseph's Academy and Convent of Jesus and Mary are top choices.
Q2. Is Dehradun good for school education?
Yes. Dehradun is one of India's finest educational cities, known globally for elite boarding schools and strong day school options across CBSE and ICSE boards.
Q3. What is the admission age for The Doon School?
The Doon School admits boys to Class 7 at age 12. The entrance exam is held in October-November each year with national-level competition.
Q4. Are there good CBSE day schools in Dehradun?
Yes. Delhi Public School Dehradun, Asian School, and Scholars Home are highly-rated CBSE day schools with strong academic results.