Top Arts Colleges in Mumbai After 12th – Cutoffs, Fees & Ranking
Choosing an arts college in Mumbai after 12th is often misunderstood and underrated. Many students believe arts has “less scope,” while in reality, arts colleges in Mumbai offer strong academic depth, exposure, and diverse career paths in psychology, economics, media, public policy, research, and higher studies.
This guide provides a clear, student-focused list of the top arts colleges in Mumbai after 12th, ranked based on academic reputation, faculty quality, exposure, and student preference.
Mumbai is one of the best cities in India for arts and humanities education due to its media ecosystem, academic culture, and career opportunities.
Why Mumbai Is a Great City for Arts & Humanities
Arts colleges in Mumbai offer much more than textbook learning.
Key reasons students prefer Mumbai for arts education:
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Strong academic and intellectual culture
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Exposure to media houses, NGOs, research institutes, and policy spaces
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Autonomous colleges with flexible and updated syllabi
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Excellent faculty in psychology, economics, sociology, and political science
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Better opportunities for internships, research, and networking
This makes Mumbai a top destination for serious arts students.
Top Arts Colleges in Mumbai After 12th (Ranked List)
Below is a curated list of the best arts colleges in Mumbai, based on reputation, academics, and student outcomes.
1) St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
Known for: Academic excellence and autonomous curriculum.
Highlights:
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One of the top-ranked colleges in India
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Outstanding faculty and academic environment
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Excellent reputation in arts and humanities
Best for: Economics, political science, psychology, higher studies
2) Sophia College for Women
Known for: Strong academics and women-focused education.
Highlights:
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Excellent faculty and academic culture
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Well-known for humanities and social sciences
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Strong support for research and higher studies
Best for: Female students pursuing arts degrees
3) Jai Hind College
Known for: Exposure, events, and extracurricular culture.
Highlights:
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Autonomous structure with flexible syllabus
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Strong student culture and networking
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Popular for arts and mass media
Best for: Students seeking exposure + academics
4) Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous College
Known for: Academic rigor and research-oriented learning.
Highlights:
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Strong reputation in humanities
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Autonomous curriculum and faculty strength
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Excellent academic discipline
Best for: Serious academics and research-oriented students
5) Kishinchand Chellaram College
Known for: Balanced academics and affordability.
Highlights:
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Government-aided college with low fees
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Good reputation in arts subjects
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Central Mumbai location
Best for: Value-for-money arts education
6) Mithibai College
Known for: Exposure and student culture.
Highlights:
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Strong extracurricular and academic balance
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Popular among arts and science students
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Good industry exposure
Best for: Students wanting academics + exposure
7) Elphinstone College
Known for: Heritage and academic legacy.
Highlights:
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One of the oldest colleges in Mumbai
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Strong humanities foundation
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Government-aided with affordable fees
Best for: History, philosophy, traditional arts subjects
8) SIES College of Arts, Science and Commerce
Known for: Stable academics and multiple streams.
Highlights:
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Balanced academic environment
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Good infrastructure
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Central Mumbai accessibility
Best for: Consistent academic performance
9) Bhavan’s College
Known for: Suburban accessibility and academics.
Highlights:
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Good faculty and campus environment
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Suitable for suburban students
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Balanced academic approach
Best for: Accessibility + academics
10) Wilson College
Known for: Academic discipline and humanities focus.
Highlights:
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Strong humanities departments
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Traditional academic structure
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Good reputation in arts
Best for: Serious arts and humanities students
Top Arts Colleges in Mumbai – Comparison Table
| College | Location | Type | Fees (Approx) | Cutoff % | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Xavier’s College | South Mumbai | Autonomous | ₹18k–40k | 90–95% | Academics |
| Sophia College | South Mumbai | Private | ₹20k–40k | 85–92% | Women |
| Jai Hind College | Churchgate | Autonomous | ₹15k–30k | 80–90% | Exposure |
| Ruia College | Matunga | Autonomous | ₹15k–35k | 85–92% | Research |
| KC College | Churchgate | Govt-Aided | ₹10k–20k | 75–85% | Budget |
| Mithibai College | Vile Parle | Private | ₹25k–45k | 85–90% | Exposure |
| Elphinstone College | Churchgate | Govt | ₹8k–15k | 70–80% | Legacy |
| SIES College | Sion | Private | ₹20k–35k | 70–85% | Stability |
| Bhavan’s College | Andheri | Private | ₹20k–35k | 70–85% | Accessibility |
| Wilson College | Chowpatty | Govt-Aided | ₹10k–20k | 75–85% | Humanities |
Career Scope After Arts in Mumbai
Arts graduates from Mumbai colleges can pursue careers in:
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Psychology and mental health
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Media, journalism, and content
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Civil services and public policy
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Education, research, and academia
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Social sector, NGOs, and think tanks
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Corporate roles (HR, communications, research)
Arts offers diverse and flexible career paths when chosen strategically.
Admission Process for Arts Colleges in Mumbai
Admissions are mainly merit-based and depend on:
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12th board percentage
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Subject combination
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Category and reservation rules
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Cutoff lists released in multiple rounds
Students should track cutoffs carefully and fill preferences wisely.
How to Choose the Right Arts College After 12th
Before finalising a college, consider:
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Subject specialisation offered
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Faculty strength and autonomy
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Exposure opportunities and internships
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Travel distance and daily routine
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Long-term career or higher-study plans
Choosing the right subject matters more than choosing the most popular college.
Final Verdict – Which Arts College Should You Choose?
The top arts colleges in Mumbai after 12th provide excellent academic and career opportunities, but the right choice depends on your interest, marks, location, and future goals.
Use this guide to shortlist colleges logically and plan your future with clarity.
🔗 Related Link
👉 Top Colleges in Mumbai – Stream Wise Complete Guide



