The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) released its much-anticipated rankings for 2025 on September 4. Once again, Delhi University has maintained its stronghold in the college category. Hindu College retained its number one spot this year, just as it did in 2024. Miranda House secured the second position, while Hansraj College entered the top three, strengthening the dominance of Delhi University in the national ranking.

Hindu College Retains the Top Position

For the second consecutive year, Hindu College has been declared the best college in India under NIRF 2025. Known for its academic excellence, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and strong placement records, Hindu College scored the highest among all institutions in the country. The college’s ability to balance tradition with modern educational practices continues to make it the preferred choice for thousands of students across India.

Miranda House, another prestigious institution under Delhi University, secured the second spot. Hansraj College’s rise to the third position highlighted the consistent performance of Delhi University colleges in delivering quality education. Kirori Mal College and St. Stephen’s College completed the top five, making it clear that Delhi remains the educational hub of India.

Top 10 Colleges in NIRF Ranking 2025

The latest ranking places Delhi University in a commanding position, with several of its colleges featuring in the top ten.

1. Hindu College, Delhi

2. Miranda House, Delhi

3. Hansraj College, Delhi

4. Kirori Mal College, Delhi

5. St. Stephen’s College, Delhi

6. Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Kolkata

7. Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, Delhi

8. St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata / Loyola College, Chennai

9. PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore

10. PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore

This list not only demonstrates Delhi University’s supremacy but also highlights the contributions of institutions from Kolkata, Chennai, and Coimbatore in shaping India’s higher education.

Comparison with NIRF 2024 Rankings

In 2024, Hindu College had topped with a score of 74.47. Miranda House followed with 73.22, and Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College secured third with 72.97. St. Stephen’s and Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College were also among the leading names.

The 2025 list shows minor reshuffling but continues to favor Delhi University colleges. Hansraj College’s climb to the top three is notable, while Kirori Mal College has also advanced into the top five. Lady Shri Ram College for Women, which was in the top ten last year, has not featured in this year’s top ten list.

How NIRF Rankings are Determined

The Ministry of Human Resource Development oversees the NIRF rankings through a core committee. The framework evaluates institutions based on five key parameters.

First, the committee develops a matrix to assign scores. Each parameter carries specific weightage. Detailed data is collected, analyzed, and scored to ensure transparency. Sub-scores from different heads are added to calculate the final marks for each parameter. After applying weightage, the cumulative score determines the institution’s ranking.

This comprehensive process ensures that the rankings are fair, unbiased, and reflective of actual performance across teaching, learning, research, graduation outcomes, outreach, and perception.

Categories in NIRF 2025

The NIRF 2025 rankings were released across 17 categories, covering almost all aspects of higher education in India. These include:

• Overall category

• University category

• College category

• Research institutions

• Engineering institutions

• Management schools

• Pharmacy colleges

• Medical colleges

• Dental colleges

• Law colleges

• Architecture and planning institutions

• Agriculture and allied sectors

• Innovation

• Open universities

• Skill universities

• State public universities

• Sustainability (SDG)

This expansion reflects India’s commitment to evaluating educational quality across multiple domains, ensuring that every type of institution receives recognition for its contribution.

Delhi University’s Continued Supremacy

Delhi University’s performance in NIRF rankings has been consistently strong. Colleges under DU dominate the lists year after year. In 2025, five of the top seven positions are held by Delhi University institutions. This is a testament to DU’s academic infrastructure, experienced faculty, and strong student culture.

Hindu College and Miranda House remain icons of excellence, while Hansraj College and Kirori Mal College continue to rise. St. Stephen’s College, with its historic legacy, also maintains its reputation.

Regional Representation Beyond Delhi

While Delhi dominates, the presence of institutions from Kolkata, Chennai, and Coimbatore adds diversity to the list. Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College and St. Xavier’s College represent the academic excellence of Kolkata. Loyola College in Chennai remains a top choice in South India. PSGR Krishnammal College for Women and PSG College of Arts and Science represent Coimbatore’s significant contribution to higher education.

These institutions highlight the growing educational hubs outside Delhi, ensuring students across the country have access to top-quality learning environments.

Why NIRF Rankings Matter

The NIRF rankings have become a trusted benchmark for students, parents, and educators in India. With transparency in data collection and evaluation, the rankings provide clarity on where institutions stand in terms of teaching standards, infrastructure, placements, and research.

For students aspiring to secure admission in the best colleges, these rankings serve as a guide. For institutions, they act as a motivator to improve performance, innovate in teaching methods, and strengthen research.

Challenges and Criticism

While NIRF rankings are widely accepted, some experts argue that the framework may not capture the complete picture of an institution’s environment. Factors like cultural impact, extracurricular activities, and alumni network strength often go beyond measurable data. Still, the rankings remain an effective tool for measuring academic excellence.

The NIRF College Ranking 2025 once again reinforces the dominance of Delhi University, with Hindu College and Miranda House leading the charge. Hansraj College’s rise into the top three and the continued presence of Kirori Mal and St. Stephen’s further strengthen DU’s position. Beyond Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Coimbatore institutions showcase their role in balancing regional representation.

With 17 categories and a transparent evaluation process, NIRF rankings continue to shape the educational aspirations of millions. For students, the 2025 list is a clear indicator of where academic excellence thrives in India. As institutions strive for better scores, the future of Indian higher education looks poised for greater growth and global recognition.