Best Schools in Dehradun | Admissions Guide 2025-26

LAST UPDATED : 19th August 2025

Dehradun is not only a beautiful city, but also a real educational centre and famously referred to as the “City of Schools” Set in the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun provides a majestic learning backdrop – imagine green campuses, clean mountain air, and a serene environment in which students can flourish.

Dehradun has over 300 schools, including some established in the British era.  A large number of the institutions are of national repute, and in many cases, the best in India. With top-class day schools and top-class boarding schools, Dehradun offers the most varied and complete mix for every possible need. That’s why parents all over India and even abroad look to Dehradun first for quality education.

What actually sets Dehradun apart is the overall educational experience that the city offers. Here, students are provided with quality education in an environment where they can form their own opinions, are mentored by excellent teachers, and indulge in debates, sports, art, and so on. Besides this, Dehradun is safe and a nice place to reside in – a recent nationwide survey even ranked Dehradun one of the safest cities in India

The Top 10 Schools in Dehradun for Academic Session for 2026-27

Below are the Top 10 most outstanding schools in Dehradun for academic session 2026-27, each described with key features, values, and offerings. These institutions have earned their reputation through consistent academic performance, excellent facilities, and strong emphasis on student development.

Ecole Globale International Girls’ School, The Doon School,  Welham Girls’ School, Welham Boys’ School, Woodstock School, The Asian school,CJM Dehradun, GD Goenka Public School, Brightlands School, Scholar’s Home, Marshal School, Doon Valley Public School (DVPS), Brown Cambridge School, Brooklyn School, Ann Mary School, DAV public school, and Jaswant Modern School.

1- ECOLE GLOBALE INTERNATIONAL GIRLS SCHOOL

Location – Sahaspur Road, Horawala, Uttarakhand 248197

School details:

2 -THE DOON SCHOOL

Location – Mall Rd, Krishna Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001

School details:

About School:

The Doon School, a top boarding school in Dehradun, has been a beacon of academic excellence since 1935. Often referred to as “India’s Eton,” it combines rich tradition with modern education. Recently ranked the #1 boys’ boarding school in India, Doon continues to nurture leaders in politics, business, arts, and public service. Its 70-acre campus in the heart of Dehradun provides an inspiring environment with iconic red-brick architecture and world-class facilities.

Facilities and Student Life:

As the best boarding school in Dehradun, Doon offers a balanced student life where academics, sports, and co-curriculars go hand in hand.

• Academics: ICSE/ISC and IB Diploma options with global enrichment opportunities.
• Sports: Cricket, football, squash, swimming, and more, with participation at national and international levels.
• Co-Curriculars: Debating, drama, music, and Model United Nations enhance leadership and creativity.
• Boarding Care: A strong house system fosters brotherhood, mentorship, and personal growth.

With a 9:1 student-teacher ratio, each boy receives individual attention, preparing him to thrive in top universities worldwide.

3-WELHAM GIRLS SCHOOL

Location – 19, Municipal Rd, Panchpuri Colony, Dalanwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001

School details:

About School:

Founded in 1957, Welham Girls’ School is widely regarded as the best girls’ school in Dehradun and ranks among the top girls’ boarding schools in India. Many parents wonder, “Is Welham Girls’ School the right choice for my daughter aged 11 to 18?” The answer is an emphatic yes. The school provides a rigorous academic foundation under the ICSE/ISC curriculum, along with a focus on holistic growth. Its students consistently feature among national toppers, and the school’s philosophy, guided by the motto “Aarta Shanti Phala Vidya” (Education yields humility), emphasizes discipline, leadership, and character-building.

Facilities and Student Life:

“What makes Welham Girls’ one of the top schools in Dehradun for girls?” Spread across a charming campus in the Dalanwala area, the school blends heritage with modern amenities, offering:

• Academic Excellence: Well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and libraries that foster intellectual curiosity.
• Sports Facilities: Swimming, tennis, basketball, and athletics to promote fitness and teamwork.
• Co-Curricular Activities: Performing arts, dramatics, choir, clubs, and social service initiatives.
• Pastoral Care: A nurturing hostel environment where each girl feels at home, supported by dedicated staff.

4- WELHAM BOYS SCHOOL

5- WOODSTOCK SCHOOL

Location – Landour, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179

School details:

About School:

Founded in 1854, Woodstock School is one of the oldest residential schools in Asia, located in Mussoorie, part of the wider schools in the Dehradun/Mussoorie region. Recognized internationally, Woodstock has built a reputation as one of the top international boarding schools in India, offering an international curriculum (IB/world curricula) that blends inquiry-based learning with a global outlook. As an IB World School, Woodstock prepares students for leading universities worldwide through the IB Diploma Programme and a U.S.-style high school diploma. With its heritage and progressive education model, Woodstock continues to be a beacon of holistic learning.

Facilities and Student Life:

“What makes Woodstock a unique choice among international schools?” Its mountainside campus and focus on experiential education set it apart. Students benefit from:

• Modern Learning Spaces: Equipped science labs, IT labs, media centers, and creative arts facilities.
• Outdoor Education: Treks, expeditions, and service projects rooted in nature and community engagement.
• Global Student Body: A diverse mix of Indian and international students with a strong inclusivity culture.
• Creative & Cultural Growth: Over 100 extracurricular options, from music and theater to environmental clubs.

6-  THE ASIAN SCHOOL

3.9 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

(385 Reviews)

Enquire now

 

Location – Asian Acres, Vasant Vihar, Indra Nagar Colony, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248006

School details:

FEE STRUCTURE	Course fee: Rs. 7,65,000/- for 2 years
SCHOOL STRENGTH	2500 students (600 boys from Class IV to XII)
TEACHER-STUDENT RATIO	1:6
AVERAGE CLASS STRENGTH	30 students
INDOOR SPORTS	SportsAthletics, Badminton, Basketball, Baseball, Boxing, Cricket, Cross Country,
OUTDOOR SPORTS	Gymnastics, /hockey, Horse Riding, Karate, Soccer, Swimming, Table Tennis, Skating and Shooting.
ADDRESS	Asian Acres, Vasant Vihar, Indra Nagar Colony, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248006

 

About School:

Founded in 2000, The Asian School has established itself as one of Dehradun’s top schools, offering both day and boarding facilities. Known for its excellent academic record under the CBSE curriculum, the school combines rigorous learning with strong values. Set on a 16-acre campus in Vasant Vihar, its colonial-style architecture and green surroundings provide an inspiring environment for students. Today, The Asian School is widely recognized as a renowned school in Dehradun that nurtures students academically and personally.

Facilities and Student Life:

“What makes The Asian School a preferred choice for parents in Dehradun?” The answer lies in its balanced approach to academics, sports, and co-curricular life. Students benefit from:

• Academic Excellence: Smart classrooms, advanced science and computer labs, and a well-stocked library.
• Sports Infrastructure: Facilities for athletics, cricket, swimming, basketball, horse riding, and shooting.
• Cultural Engagement: Opportunities in music, dance, debates, exhibitions, and annual cultural fests.
• Holistic Growth: A nurturing environment with discipline, values, and community service.

7- CJM DEHRADUN

8- GD Goenka Public School, Dehradun

Location – Knowledge Village, Ramgarh, Uttarakhand 248001

School details:

About School:

GD Goenka Public School, Dehradun is part of the prestigious Goenka group of schools. Although a relatively new institution, established in the 2010s, it has already secured its place as one of the top 10 schools in Dehradun, especially in the co-ed day/boarding category. Located in Knowledge Village on a scenic 26-acre campus, the school is affiliated with CBSE and offers classes from pre-primary to Class 12. GD Goenka is known for integrating 21st-century skills into its curriculum, combining conceptual learning with technology through smart classrooms, digital labs, and experiential methods. With a 15:1 student-teacher ratio, the school ensures personalized attention and academic support for every child.

Facilities and Student Life:

“What makes GD Goenka a progressive choice for my child?” Families choose GD Goenka for its modern learning environment and well-rounded development opportunities, including:

• Modern Infrastructure: Smart classrooms, digital learning tools, and a 26-acre state-of-the-art campus.
• Sports Excellence: Cricket, football, basketball, swimming, and an indoor sports complex.
• Performing Arts & Clubs: Dance, drama, music, robotics, literature, environment club, and more.
• Career Support: Mentorship and counseling programs to guide students for higher education in India and abroad.

9-BRIGHTLANDS SCHOOL

10- SCHOLAR’S HOME

Location – 153, Rajpur Rd, Malsi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248195

School details:

About School:

Scholar’s Home is a well-established co-ed school in Dehradun, founded in 1949. With over seven decades of service, it has become one of the top schools in Dehradun for families who want a balance of academics, sports, and values. Affiliated with CBSE, the school offers education from kindergarten to Class 12 and has a consistent record of good board exam results. Located on Rajpur Road with an extended campus in the Malsi area, the school blends traditional discipline with modern teaching practices, making it a reliable choice for holistic education.

Facilities and Student Life:

Scholar’s Home provides students with a structured environment that focuses on both academics and physical development.

• Academic strength: Follows a robust CBSE curriculum with good performance in board exams and city-level merit lists.
• Campus facilities: Spacious classrooms, science and computer labs, libraries, and vast playgrounds.
• Sports culture: Offers athletics, handball, basketball, badminton, and even horse riding – unique for a primarily day school.
• Cultural life: Students regularly participate in music, dance, drama, and art through school functions and inter-school events.
• Day-boarding advantage: Extended hours with supervised study and meals, making it convenient for working parents.

With around 1400 students, the school maintains a friendly and disciplined environment. Its focus on all-round growth and character-building ensures that Scholar’s Home continues to stand tall among the top schools in Dehradun.

11- MARSHAL SCHOOL

Location – 40, EC Road, Race Course, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001

School details:

About School:

Founded in 1967 by British educationist Francis Russell Marshall, Marshal School is a prestigious institution among schools in Dehradun, known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development.

The school offers a well-rounded ICSE and ISC curriculum, complemented by modern classrooms, well-equipped science and computer labs, and extensive sports facilities.

With a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, including fashion design, humanities, and leadership programs, Marshal School has produced distinguished alumni excelling in various fields, reinforcing its legacy of quality education.

12- DOON VALLEY PUBLIC SCHOOL (DVPS)

Location –  Garhi Cantonment, Kaulagarh, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248003

School details:

About School:

Doon Valley Public School, established in 1982, is a premier institution committed to academic excellence and holistic development. Recognized among the good schools in Dehradun, it offers a CBSE-affiliated curriculum that fosters intellectual growth, creativity, and innovation.

The school provides modern infrastructure, well-equipped laboratories, smart classrooms, and extensive sports facilities. With a focus on co-curricular activities, leadership programs, and community engagement, DVPS stands out among CBSE schools in Dehradun, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success.

13- BROWN CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL

Location – 5, Kasturba Road, Dalanwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001

School details:

About School:

Colonel Brown Cambridge School, one of the top 10 choices among schools in Dehradun, has been a leading institution since its establishment in 1926.

As one of the finest Boys Boarding Schools in Dehradun, it offers a rigorous ICSE curriculum combined with a strong emphasis on discipline, leadership, and all-round development.

With modern classrooms, science and computer labs, and extensive sports facilities, the school fosters both academic excellence and extracurricular engagement.

Known as one of the top schools in Dehradun, it provides students with opportunities in athletics, performing arts, and leadership programs. Recognized among the best schools in Dehradun, Colonel Brown Cambridge School continues to shape future leaders, ensuring they excel in academics, sports, and life beyond the classroom.

14- BROOKLYN SCHOOL

Location – 3/1, Curzon Rd, Dalanwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001

School details:

About School:

Brooklyn School, founded in 1987, is a distinguished institution among good schools in Dehradun, offering quality education with a strong emphasis on holistic development.

Affiliated with the CISCE, the school provides a well-structured curriculum from Playgroup to Class XII, fostering academic excellence and leadership.

The campus features modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, a library, and sports facilities. With a focus on extracurricular activities, Brooklyn School nurtures creativity, confidence, and intellectual growth, ensuring students are well-prepared for future success.

15- ANN MARY SCHOOL

16- DAV PUBLIC SCHOOL

17- JASWANT MODERN SCHOOL

Criteria for Ranking Top Schools in Dehradun

The criteria used by us to determine the best school in Dehradun are:

• Academic Excellence: Evaluation based on board examination results, university placements, and the variety of academic programs offered.
• Faculty Quality: Consideration of teacher qualifications, teacher-student ratio, and faculty’s involvement in ongoing educational development and student mentoring.
• Infrastructure and Facilities: Assessment of the campus environment, including classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and extracurricular activity spaces.
• Holistic Development: Focus on opportunities for student growth outside of academics, such as sports, arts, community service, and leadership training programs.
• Safety and Well-being: Attention to the school’s policies on student safety, health services, emotional support systems, and overall environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

Why Dehradun is an Education Hub

Dehradun has earned its reputation as an education hub for several compelling reasons:

• Heritage of Excellence: The city’s educational roots run deep. Some schools here are over a century old, established during the British era, and have built a legacy of excellence. Institutions like The Doon School (est. 1935) and Convent of Jesus & Mary (est. 1901) have shaped generations of students. Even today, Dehradun boasts numerous premier schools that are revered nationwide​.

• Natural Environment: The serene natural surroundings play a big role in learning. Almost all schools are set amid green, tranquil environments​. This peaceful atmosphere helps students concentrate and provides ample space for sports and outdoor activities. From hillside boarding schools to city-center campuses lined with trees, the ambiance is both healthy and stimulating.

• Quality Faculty and Infrastructure: Dehradun’s schools attract experienced and dedicated teachers, many with international exposure​. The teacher-student relationship is often close-knit, ensuring personal attention. Schools here also invest in modern infrastructure – smart classrooms, well-equipped labs, libraries, and sports facilities – rivaling the best in the country​. Whether it’s a basketball court or a robotics lab, the facilities support all-round development.

• Holistic Development: Education in Dehradun isn’t just about textbooks. Schools emphasize holistic growth, encouraging students to engage in debates, music, drama, community service, leadership programs, and more​. The competition in these schools is healthy and high; admissions are often rigorous, bringing together bright young minds from across India​. This pushes students to excel and learn from each other’s talents.

• Safety and Lifestyle: For parents, the safety of Dehradun is a huge plus. The city has a low crime rate and is considered “one of the safest cities in India,” according to a national survey​. Students enjoy a high quality of life here – it’s common to see them going for evening walks, outings, or sports practices without worry. The city’s moderate climate and clean air further contribute to a healthy lifestyle for youngsters.

In summary, Dehradun combines academic prestige with a nurturing environment. It offers the rigor and opportunities of a big-city education, minus the chaos of a metro. This unique blend makes Dehradun a magnet for families seeking the best schools for the 2025–26 academic year.

Admission Requirements and Process for Dehradun Schools

Once you have shortlisted the schools, it’s important to understand the admission requirements and procedures, as the top schools can be quite competitive in their intake. Below, we outline the common documents required and the typical admission process for schools in Dehradun (including for the Top 10 above):

Documents Required for School Admissions in Dehradun

When applying to schools (especially for formal entry points like Class Nursery, Class 1, Class 6, Class 9 or Class 11), parents are usually asked to submit a set of documents. While specifics can vary by institution, generally you will need:

• Birth Certificate: Proof of the child’s date of birth (usually a municipal birth certificate) to verify age eligibility for the class.

• Photographs: Recent passport-size photographs of the child and sometimes of parents.

• Identity Proof of Parents: Copies of Aadhar card, passport, or other government ID of mother and father for identification and address verification.

• Residence Proof: Document confirming address (ration card, electricity bill, lease deed etc.) especially if the school has domicile priorities or to verify distance (for day scholars).

• Previous Academic Records: For admissions beyond the entry level, you’ll need report cards or transcripts from the previous school. For Class 2 and above, the Transfer Certificate (TC) from the last school is typically required at the time of final admission.

• Medical Records: Many schools ask for a medical fitness certificate for the child. Any immunization/vaccination records and blood group information should be provided. Boarding schools might have a more detailed health history form.

• Caste or Category Certificate (if applicable): If you are applying under any reserved category (such as SC/ST/OBC in some schools, or EWS quotas, etc.), the relevant certificate may be needed.

• Extracurricular Certificates (optional): If the child has notable achievements (say in sports or arts) and the school welcomes such info, it can be attached to strengthen the application.

It’s always best to check the specific school’s prospectus or website for any additional documents. Some schools (like The Doon School or Welham) might have unique requirements, such as recommendation letters or personal statements (more common for secondary levels). But in most cases, the above list covers the essentials​.

Application Process for Top Dehradun Schools

The admission process in Dehradun’s top schools generally follows a series of steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect:

1. Inquiry and School Research: First, reach out to the school or visit their website to gather information. Top schools often release admission notices in leading newspapers and on their official sites. Ensure you note application start dates, deadlines, and entry classes (many prestigious schools have main intakes at Nursery, Class 3/5, Class 7, or Class 11).

2. Application Form Submission: Obtain the application form (nowadays, many schools have online application forms). Fill it out carefully with all required details about the student and parents. Submit the form along with the application fee (if any) before the deadline. Some schools require you to collect the form in person or download and print it – follow the instructions given by the school.

3. Submission of Documents: Along with the application, you’ll need to submit the documents mentioned above (copies). Ensure you have them attested if required. Keep the originals ready for verification on test/interview day or admission confirmation.

4. Entrance Test/Assessment: Most top schools in Dehradun will have some form of entrance assessment for new admissions, especially beyond the earliest grades. This could be a written test in subjects like English, Mathematics, Science (depending on entry level), and sometimes General Knowledge. For younger kids (KG or Class 1), they might do a simple observational assessment or interactive session instead of formal testing. Boarding schools like Doon, Welham, Ecole, etc., definitely have their own entrance exams which can be competitive. It’s a good idea to prepare your child for these tests by practicing sample questions or past papers if available.

5. Interview/Interaction: Schools often conduct an interaction or interview after the test. For junior classes, this may be an informal meeting with the child and parents to gauge the child’s readiness and the family’s alignment with the school’s ethos. For higher classes, the student might be interviewed by a panel (teachers/principal) to discuss their interests, background, and why they want to join. Parents might also be interviewed in some schools (commonly in primary admissions) – typically to understand the child’s upbringing and the support at home.

6. Merit List and Admission Offer: After tests and interviews, schools will announce results – either as a merit list on their notice board/website or through email/phone. If your child is selected, you will receive an admission offer.

7. Confirmation of Admission: To secure the seat, you’ll need to pay the admission fee/initial fee deposit by a given date. Along with this, submission of the Transfer Certificate from the previous school (for class 2 and above) will be required. For boarding schools, additional forms regarding medical history, clothing sizes, etc., may need to be filled.

8. Orientation and Joining: Many top schools host an orientation for new students and parents before the session starts. This helps everyone get familiar with the school policies, teachers, and campus facilities. Finally, your child joins the school on the specified start date (for boarders, often a couple of days earlier than day scholars to settle into dorms).

Each school may have variations in this process. For example, The Doon School has an entrance exam (called the Doon School Entrance Examination) typically in November for admission the next year, and interviews after that. Welham Schools have their own testing process too. It’s important to adhere to each school’s timelines and prep your child according to the syllabus given for the test. Also, keep backups – apply to multiple schools if possible, since competition can be stiff for the very top ones.

Pro Tip: Start the process early. For many boarding schools in Dehradun, you need to register at least a year in advance (some even from birth or years ahead!). Check if the school requires an early registration. And most importantly, keep your child stress-free about the process – encourage them to do their best, but also reassure them that there are multiple great schools in Dehradun, and they will have a bright future wherever they go.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Ques- Are schools in Dehradun costly?

Ans- In a city like Dehradun, one can find both affordable and expensive schools. In fact, the top schools in Dehradun generally have a good reputation for the quality of education provided across its esteemed institutions. Evidently, its top-ranked schools have always been an important cornerstone for the development of the city in terms of education.

Ques- Is Dehradun a safe city?

Ans- Dehradun is a safe city. It is rated as the safest city in India. It has a low crime rate and has been called ‘the Switzerland of India’ by many authorities. The police department of Dehradun has its website which can be used to report any incident of crime or if you want to file an FIR (first information report).
If you have been planning to visit Dehradun and wondering if it is safe to go out at night. Let me tell you that it is perfectly safe to go out at night. The roads are lit up well enough so that one can travel without any difficulty even at 3 am.

Ques- What curriculum is followed in schools in Dehradun?

Ans- The curriculum followed by the top 10 schools in Dehradun is different from the one followed by other schools across the country. The education system of Dehradun is based on the recommendations of NCERT (National Council for Education Research and Training). It is divided into three parts: primary, secondary, and senior secondary. The primary stage covers classes 1-5 while the second level covers classes 6-10. The senior secondary stage comprises classes 11 & 12 which are also known as +2 courses.

The curriculum taught in these three stages is divided into various subjects like Hindi, English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, etc., taught by subject experts, trained for this purpose.

Ques- What is the admission procedure followed in top schools in Dehradun?

Ans- The admission procedure in top schools in Dehradun follows a two-step process. First, parents consider the features of various schools and then decide which school matches their requirements. Next, they fill up an application form at the school office along with the necessary documents. Admission Officers review applications and accept or reject them after considering the rules, regulations, and policies of the school.

Ques- What is the fee structure of schools in Dehradun?

Ans- The fee structure of schools in Dehradun depends on the quality, facilities, and reputation of the institute. Schools with a good reputation will have a higher fee structure compared to reputed schools. In the case of new kids, one should check for other fees like the registration process, tuition, and curriculum fees.

Ques- Which are the best 5 International schools in Dehradun?

Ans- The top international schools in Dehradun are ranked based on independent rankings, reviews, student satisfaction, and more.

Here is the list of the top 5 international schools in Dehradun:

• Ecole Globale Girls International School
• The Doon School
• Woodstock School
• Kasiga School
• Mussoorie International School

Ques- Which are the best 5 Boarding schools in Dehradun?

Ans- Boarding schools in Dehradun are well known for their infrastructure and the high quality of education they provide.

Here is the list of the top 5 Boarding schools in Dehradun:

• Ecole Gloable International School
• The Doon School
• Welham Girls School
• Woodstock School
• Welham Boys School