UPES vs Graphic Era Dehradun 2025 — Which is Better?

UPES or Graphic Era — which private university in Dehradun should you choose? We compare fees, placements, NAAC grade, programs, and campus life honestly.

Quick Overview

UPES (NIRF #55, NAAC A) and Graphic Era (NAAC A+, QS ranked) are the two most frequently compared universities in Dehradun. Both are well-established but they serve different student profiles.

Fees Comparison

UPES is costlier: B.Tech fees range ₹2.8L–₹3.5L/yr. Graphic Era is more affordable at ₹1.2L–₹2.5L/yr for B.Tech. For BCA, UPES charges ₹1.5L–₹1.8L/yr vs Graphic Era at ₹90K–₹1.2L/yr.

UPES B.Tech Fee

₹2.8L – ₹3.5L/yr

Graphic Era B.Tech Fee

₹1.2L – ₹2.5L/yr

Placements Comparison

UPES has the edge in placements — highest 62 LPA, average 8.5 LPA. Graphic Era's highest is 45 LPA with an average of 7.2 LPA. Both have 85%+ placement rates.

Accreditation & Rankings

Graphic Era is NAAC A+ (higher than UPES's NAAC A). UPES is NIRF #55 nationally. For NIRF national recognition — UPES leads. For accreditation grade — Graphic Era wins.

Who Should Choose What?

Choose UPES if:

Targeting CS/AI/Petroleum B.Tech
Want top placement outcomes
Can manage higher fee (with scholarships)
Want a nationally NIRF ranked university

Choose Graphic Era if:

Want NAAC A+ grade
Need more affordable fees
Interested in research or MCA/M.Tech
Value established track record since 1993

FAQs

Is UPES better than Graphic Era?▾

For placements and specialised engineering — yes. For affordability and NAAC grade — Graphic Era has the edge. Choose based on your stream and budget.

Which has better MBA — UPES or Graphic Era?▾

UPES MBA (especially Energy Management and Analytics) has better industry connect. Graphic Era MBA is more affordable and good for general management.