Animation Courses in Mumbai 2026: Top Colleges, Fees and Admission
Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At…
Animation courses in Mumbai range from 4-year degree programs like B.Des (INR 5,00,000 at NID) and 3-year B.Sc degrees (INR 3,00,000 at St. Mumbai provides animators with extensive industry exposure due to the presence of film production houses and experienced industry animators.
Prospective students can choose between full-time university degrees, short-term professional diplomas, government institutions, and specialized training centers. Key details regarding top colleges, fee structures, course software, admission eligibility, salary packages, and recruitment studios in Mumbai are provided below.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Duration | 6 months to 1 year (Diploma/Certificate), 3 to 4 years (Undergraduate Degree) |
| Minimum Eligibility | Passed 10+2 standard with at least 45% aggregate marks |
| Degree Course Fee Range | INR 1,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 total fees |
| Diploma Course Fee Range | INR 30,000 to INR 2,00,000 total fees |
| Average Monthly Salary in Mumbai | INR 50,000 to INR 60,000 per month |
| Fresher Starting Salary Range | INR 15,000 to INR 18,000 per month |
Top Animation Colleges
Degree options in Mumbai include undergraduate and post-graduate programs offered by central institutes, state universities, and autonomous colleges. Students can pursue four-year design degrees such as the B.Des. in Animation at the National Institute of Design (NID) for a total course fee of INR 5,00,000, or three-year science degrees like the BSc in Animation at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai for INR 3,00,000. University options also include SNDT Women’s University, offering a BA in Animation for INR 1,50,000 and an MSc in Animation for INR 1,20,000, alongside Mithibai College offering a BA in Animation at INR 1,00,000.
| College | City | Ownership | Total course fee | NIRF rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manipal University Manipal | Manipal | — | ₹2.32 lakh | 3 (Overall, 2025) |
| Indian Institute of Technology Bombay | Mumbai | Government | ₹51,500 | 3 (Overall, 2024) |
| Jamia Millia Islamia University | Delhi | Government | ₹1.66 lakh | 4 (Overall, 2025) |
| St. Xavier’s College Kolkata | Kolkata | Private (aided) | — | 8 (Overall, 2025) |
| Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences | Chennai | — | ₹8.00 lakh | 13 (Overall, 2025) |
| Vellore Institute of Technology Vellore | Vellore | — | ₹2.91 lakh | 14 (Overall, 2025) |
| Loyola College | Chennai | Private | ₹1.86 lakh | 14 (Overall, 2025) |
| Chandigarh University | Chandigarh | Private | ₹1.78 lakh | 19 (Overall, 2025) |
Government Animation Colleges
At least 14 government colleges offer Animation courses in India, maintaining a median total course fee of ₹1.47 lakh, with the middle half of institutions charging between ₹41,851 and ₹3.03 lakh. In Mumbai and neighboring regions, key public institutions include the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, which offers animation programs at a total course fee of ₹51,500, and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), offering an MFA in Animation for INR 3,00,000. Mumbai University offers animation programs at a total fee of ₹12.00 lakh. Nationally, low-cost public education options include Kalindi College in Delhi (₹10,000) and Lady Brabourne College in Kolkata (₹12,904).
| College | City | Ownership | Total course fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kalindi College | Delhi | Government | ₹10,000 |
| Lady Brabourne College | Kolkata | Government | ₹12,904 |
| Indian Institute of Technology Bombay | Mumbai | Government | ₹51,500 |
| CSJM Kanpur University | Kanpur | Government | ₹54,200 |
| Osmania University | Hyderabad | Government | ₹1.27 lakh |
| Jamia Millia Islamia University | Delhi | Government | ₹1.66 lakh |
| Gujarat University | Ahmedabad | Government | ₹2.20 lakh |
| Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology | Kolkata | Government | ₹2.64 lakh |
| Jagannath University Bahadurgarh | Bahadurgarh | Government | ₹4.20 lakh |
| Mumbai University | Mumbai | Government | ₹12.00 lakh |
Private Animation Colleges
At least 121 private colleges offer Animation training in India, with a median total course fee of ₹1.85 lakh and the middle half falling between ₹1.50 lakh and ₹3.35 lakh. Private training institutes in Mumbai specialize in career-focused diplomas and short-term certificates.
Arena Animation Mumbai offers a Diploma in Animation, VFX, and Multimedia for INR 1,50,000 and a 9-month Diploma in 3D Animation for INR 1,50,000. MAAC Animation Institute offers a Diploma in 3D Animation, VFX, and Gaming for INR 1,80,000, while Zee Institute of Creative Art (ZICA) charges INR 1,40,000 for its Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects. Frameboxx Animation Institute operates centers in Thane and Vashi, acting as an authorized study center for YCMOU degree courses and offering a 6-month Certificate in VFX for INR 80,000.
| Institute Name | Course Offered | Duration | Total Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arena Animation | Diploma in Animation, VFX, and Multimedia | 9 – 12 months | 1,50,000 |
| MAAC Animation Institute | Diploma in 3D Animation, VFX, and Gaming | 1 year | 1,80,000 |
| Zee Institute of Creative Art (ZICA) | Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects | 1 year | 1,40,000 |
| Toonz Animation India | Diploma in Animation | 1 year | 2,00,000 |
| FX School, Mumbai | Diploma in 2D Animation | 1 year | 1,80,000 |
| Frameboxx Animation & Visual Effects | Certificate in VFX | 6 months | 80,000 |
| College | City | Ownership | Total course fee | Average package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fergusson College | Pune | Private (aided) | ₹2.57 lakh | 5.02 LPA |
| Echelon Institute of Technology | Faridabad | Private | ₹7.09 lakh | 3.51 LPA |
| St. Joseph’s College Devagiri | Calicut | Private (aided) | ₹2.88 lakh | 3.33 LPA |
| Yashwantrao Chavan Institute of Science | Satara | Private (aided) | — | 3.11 LPA |
| Thakur College of Science and Commerce | Mumbai | Private (aided) | ₹4.56 lakh | 2.94 LPA |
| Institute of Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Development | Kolkata | Private | ₹3.40 lakh | 2.48 LPA |
| Birla Institute of Technology Jaipur | Jaipur | Private | ₹1.83 lakh | 2.42 LPA |
| Institute of Management Study | Kolkata | Private | ₹3.84 lakh | 2.05 LPA |
| Ramniranjan Jhunjhunwala College | Mumbai | Private (aided) | ₹4.85 lakh | 1.99 LPA |
| City | Colleges | Fee range | Well-known options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pune | 51 | ₹79,000 – ₹19.40 lakh | Dr. DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Fergusson College |
| Bangalore | 37 | ₹93,456 – ₹24.00 lakh | Alliance University, Jain University |
| Mumbai | 32 | ₹51,500 – ₹28.64 lakh | Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai University |
| Kolkata | 27 | ₹12,904 – ₹8.78 lakh | Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, Amity University Kolkata |
| Chennai | 21 | ₹1.00 lakh – ₹15.93 lakh | Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, VIT University Chennai |
| Delhi | 20 | ₹10,000 – ₹27.35 lakh | Jamia Millia Islamia University, Jamia Hamdard University |
| Hyderabad | 20 | ₹75,000 – ₹12.00 lakh | Osmania University, Malla Reddy University |
| Ahmedabad | 17 | ₹98,850 – ₹14.20 lakh | Gujarat University, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University |
Animation Admission Process
- 10+2 Requirement: Passing 10+2 with a minimum of 45% marks is required for animation courses.
- Post-Graduate Criteria: Admission to the 2-year M.Sc Animation requires a Bachelor’s degree with 50% aggregate marks.
- Selection Methods: Select colleges mandate clearing institution-level entrance examinations or submitting a creative portfolio.
Candidates must meet the required academic marks in 10+2 or graduation for post-graduate studies. Certain institutions finalize admissions based on institution-level entrance examinations or creative portfolio submissions.
How to Choose a Animation College
Evaluating an animation institution requires comparing software infrastructure, faculty experience, studio placement records, and learning formats. Across 14 reporting colleges, the median average placement package stands at 3.22 LPA. Students seeking long-term design credentials generally opt for university degrees like B.Des or B.Sc, whereas those aiming for rapid studio entry often choose specialized 1-year diplomas. Flexible distance and digital learning pathways are also available through various open universities and regional centers.
| College | City | Ownership | Total course fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| IIFA Multimedia | Bangalore | — | ₹1.50 lakh |
| Venkateshwara Open University | Naharlagun | — | ₹1.00 lakh |
| Hindustan Online Centre for Open and Digital Education | Chennai | — | ₹1.27 lakh |
| JD Women’s College | Patna | University | — |
Animation Software, Curriculum and Key Technical Components
Animation programs in Mumbai focus on hands-on practical training using commercial graphic design and 3D modeling tools. Students learn 2D and 3D workflows using software software platforms essential for film, television, and gaming production.
- Core Software Tools: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender, and ZBrush.
- 3D Animation Pipeline Components: Concept sketching, 3D modeling, texturing, digital rigging, character animation, lighting, rendering, and visual effects (VFX).
Animator Salary in Mumbai and Top Recruiting Studios
| Recruiting Studio / Company | Job Position | Salary Range (INR per annum) |
|---|---|---|
| Walt Disney Animation Studios | Animator | 6,00,000 – 12,00,000 |
| Red Chillies VFX | Senior Animator / VFX Supervisor | 5,00,000 – 10,00,000 |
| DreamWorks Animation | Visual Effects Artist | 5,00,000 – 9,00,000 |
| DNEG (Double Negative) | VFX Artist / Lighting Artist | 4,50,000 – 9,00,000 |
| Prana Studios | Senior Animator / Character Designer | 4,50,000 – 8,50,000 |
| Tata Elxsi | Senior Character Animator | 4,50,000 – 8,00,000 |
| Technicolor | 3D Animator / Motion Graphics Artist | 4,00,000 – 8,00,000 |
| MPC (Moving Picture Company) | 3D Animator / VFX Artist | 4,00,000 – 7,50,000 |
| Prime Focus | Roto Artist / Compositor | 3,50,000 – 7,00,000 |
The average salary of an animator working in Mumbai is INR 50,000 to INR 60,000 per month. Fresher animators start with a monthly salary of INR 15,000 to INR 18,000, while experienced animators earn INR 40,000 to INR 50,000 and above.
Career Opportunities, Scope and Job Roles in Animation
The global 3D animation market size was valued at USD 22.67 billion in 2023 and is projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2023 to 2030. According to NASSCOM, the Indian animation industry has a requirement for over 40,000 animation experts across entertainment, broadcasting, advertising, and digital media.
Graduates enter diverse professional roles such as Storyboard Artist, 3D Character Modeler, Compositor, Visual Effects Artist, Layout Artist, and Editor. Studying in Mumbai provides access to industry gatherings and creative networking events including the Mumbai Film Festival (MAMI), International Animation Day celebrations, and Anifest India.
How to Apply for Animation Admission in 2026: Step by Step
- Check Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have passed Class 10+2 from a recognized educational board with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks (or 50% aggregate in Bachelor’s for M.Sc Animation).
- Build a Creative Portfolio: Develop a portfolio demonstrating foundational drawing skills, character designs, or digital creative work if mandated by the specific college or institute.
- Register for Entrance Exam (If Applicable): Apply and take institution-level entrance tests conducted by specific colleges in Mumbai to qualify for merit-based admissions.
- Submit Application Form: Fill in application forms directly with target Mumbai institutions such as St. Xavier’s, Mithibai, SNDT, Frameboxx, Arena Animation, or MAAC.
- Verify Documents and Pay Course Fee: Submit academic marksheets and identity proofs for verification and complete enrollment by paying the prescribed fee (INR 30,000 to INR 5,00,000 depending on course).
| What to do | Where | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Compare colleges, fees and cutoffs | Animation colleges in India | findmycollege.com |
FAQs
What are the fees of Arena Animation in Mumbai?
Arena Animation in Mumbai offers a Diploma in Animation, VFX, and Multimedia for INR 1,50,000, as well as a 9-month Diploma in 3D Animation for INR 1,50,000.
What are the fees for MAAC courses in Mumbai?
MAAC Animation Institute in Mumbai charges an estimated course fee of INR 1,80,000 for its Diploma in 3D Animation, VFX, and Gaming.
Is animation a good career in India with scope in 2026?
Yes, animation offers high career growth in India. According to NASSCOM, there is a demand for over 40,000 animation experts across films, television, advertising, and gaming.
What is the average animator salary in Mumbai?
The average monthly salary of an animator in Mumbai ranges between INR 50,000 and INR 60,000. Freshers start at INR 15,000–18,000 per month, while experienced artists earn INR 40,000–50,000+ monthly.
What software tools are taught in Mumbai animation courses?
Animation courses cover industry-standard tools including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender, and ZBrush.
What is the minimum eligibility for animation courses in Mumbai?
Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks. Certain institutes may also require an entrance exam score or creative portfolio.
