Top Design Colleges in India 2024: Overview, Eligibility, Branches, Entrance Exams, Admission & Placement

Top Design Colleges in India 2024: Some of the top private Design colleges in India Includes UID- Unitedworld Institute of Design, Karnavati University, Gandhinaga; Woxsen School of Arts and Design, Woxsen University, Hyderabad; Amity School of Fashion Technology, Noida; and Pearl Academy at the IIRF Design Ranking 2024. While NID- National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad; NID- National Institute of Design, Bengaluru; IIT- Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi; and IIT- Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai are the top government design colleges in India.

Education in design is increasingly necessary today! Design is an artistic medium, a trend, or a tangible good that imparts design thinking abilities to students. and aids them in developing strong problem-solving skills. Starting with a problem, understanding its nuances, and creating prototypes of cutting-edge goods and experiences is how design education works. Students can impact the world through design education from the top private design colleges in India.

The design course equips the students with the abilities, talents, and skills necessary to change the world through their creative thinking. The ability to design is unquestionably innate, and design education teaches students how to approach problems in novel ways. The best design colleges in India have trained managers and designers in a variety of fields, including textile design, video game development, film production, and fashion design.

One of the emerging creative professions for students is design. Students who think they have a natural aptitude for design can make use of their imagination. Technically minded creative artists are needed in design courses! There is a pressing need for talented designers in India due to the growing demand for design.

Branches and Specializations

Designing is all about changing the things around you in a more beautiful way, and the need for design is in every sector of the world. So it cannot be studied in a single course, and as a solution to this, it is further divided into various specializations and branches. Some of the important specializations and branches of design that are offered at the top private design colleges are mentioned below. 

Knitwear DesignAccessory DesignUser Experience Design
Graphic DesignFashion CommunicationFashion Design
Product DesignFashion ManagementWeb Design
Fashion TechnologyTextile DesignInterior Design
Communication DesignExhibition DesignJewelry and Accessories Design
Interaction DesignMultimedia DesignTransportation Design
Ceramics and Glass DesignFurniture DesignIndustrial Design
Architecture DesignGame DesignEnvironmental Design
Motion DesignService DesignExperience Design
Urban DesignLandscape DesignVirtual Reality Design
Information DesignSocial Impact DesignStrategic Design
Food DesignAccessory DesignGame Art Design
Architectural TechnologyLighting DesignSound Design
3D DesignAutomotive DesignSound Engineering
Robotics DesignAnimation DesignGlass Design
Photography DesignSculpture DesignLandscape Architecture
Urban PlanningGame DevelopmentAudio Engineering
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)Digital FabricationBiomimicry
Design for Social InnovationDesign ResearchBranding Design

Fashion Design: 

This programs at the top fashion designing colleges in India are highly sought-after. They equip students with the skills to create clothing and accessories, emphasizing creativity, trends, and market demands. Graduates often pursue careers as fashion designers, stylists, apparel merchandisers, and fashion entrepreneurs, contributing to the dynamic fashion industry.

Graphic Design: 

Graphic design courses focus on visual communication, teaching students to craft compelling visual content for print and digital media. Graduates from top design colleges in India become graphic designers, UI/UX designers, illustrators, or art directors, shaping brand identities, advertising, and user interfaces.

Interior Design: 

Interior design programs explore spatial planning, aesthetics, and functionality. Graduates from top design colleges in India work as interior designers, space planners, and decorators, creating appealing and functional interior spaces for homes, offices, and commercial establishments.

Industrial Design: 

Industrial design encompasses product and industrial design, emphasizing the development of consumer products and solutions. Graduates from top design colleges in India may become product designers, design engineers, or design consultants, shaping the look and functionality of everyday products.

Animation and Multimedia Design: 

These programs teach animation techniques, 3D modeling, and multimedia production. Graduates from top design colleges in India find roles in animation studios, gaming companies, advertising agencies, and film production, crafting engaging visual content.

User Experience (UX) Design:

UX design courses focus on creating user-friendly interfaces and digital experiences. Graduates from top design colleges in India often work as UX/UI designers, usability analysts, or interaction designers, enhancing user satisfaction in websites and applications.

Textile Design: 

Textile design programs delve into fabric creation, patterns, and surface design. Graduates from top design colleges in India become textile designers, working in fashion, home furnishings, and the textile industry, designing fabrics, prints, and textiles.

Communication Design: 

Communication design encompasses branding, advertising, and visual storytelling. Graduates from top design colleges in India become brand managers, creative directors, and advertising professionals, crafting visual campaigns and brand identities.

Automobile Design: 

This specialization focuses on automotive aesthetics and functionality. Graduates from top design colleges in India work as automobile designers, designing vehicles that are both aesthetically pleasing and technologically advanced.

Jewelry Design: 

Jewelry design courses teach the art of crafting jewelry pieces. Graduates from top design colleges in India become jewelry designers, gemologists, or jewelry store owners, creating unique pieces and contributing to the jewelry industry.

The Major Highlights of the Design Courses

  • Design courses from top design colleges in India can offer high paying job opportunities based on the creativity of the individual.
  • The courses are available in various specializations and offer students a chance to choose their interests.
  • Job opportunities in design courses from top design colleges in India are increasing exponentially as people like to spend money on decorations.

Eligibility Criteria

CoursesEligibility
Diploma
  • To enroll in best design colleges in India, students need to pass the 10th examination from a recognized board.
  • The duration of the course is between 1 to 2 years depending upon the chosen specialization.
  • The candidates need to score good marks in their qualifying examinations to get admission into top private design schools.
  • The admission is majorly on the basis of merit of students applied for the particular colleges.
B.Des/B.Sc
  • To enroll in best design colleges in India, candidates need to pass 10+2 or an equivalent examination from a recognized board of education.
  • The duration of B.Des course is 4 years.
  • The duration for B.Sc in Design is 3 years.
  • The candidates need to appear in the entrance examinations and get the cutoff marks to proceed further.
M.Des/M.Sc
  • To enroll in best design colleges in India, students need to have an undergraduate degree in a similar specialization from a recognized university.
  • The duration for these postgraduate courses are 2 years.
  • The students need to appear in the entrance examination and have to get the cutoff marks to proceed further.
Ph.D
  • The students are required to have a postgraduate degree in a similar specialization from a recognized university.
  • To enroll in best design colleges in India, students need to have at least 55% marks at postgraduate level.
  • The candidates need to appear in the UGC NET examination or written test conducted by the particular private architecture colleges.
  • The students need to get the cutoff marks in the entrance examination.

Admission Procedure

The admission procedure for design courses in India can vary depending on the specific design institute or university you are applying to. However, there are some common steps and processes involved in the admission process for most design courses. Here is a general overview:

  • Eligibility Criteria: Check the eligibility criteria for the design course you are interested in. Different courses and institutes may have varying eligibility requirements, including educational qualifications and age limits.
  • Entrance Exam: Most design institutes in India conduct entrance exams to assess the aptitude and creative skills of applicants. Some of the popular design entrance exams in India include NID DAT (National Institute of Design - Design Aptitude Test), NIFT Entrance Exam (National Institute of Fashion Technology), UCEED (Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design), CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design), and others.
  • Application Form: Obtain and fill out the application form for the specific design institute or university you wish to apply to. These forms are usually available online on the official websites of the institutes.
  • Portfolio Submission: Some design programs may require you to submit a portfolio showcasing your creative work, which can include sketches, drawings, design projects, or any other relevant work.
  • Entrance Exam Preparation: Prepare for the entrance exam by studying the syllabus, practicing sample papers, and honing your design and creative skills. Different entrance exams may have different formats, so be sure to prepare accordingly.
  • Appear for the Entrance Exam: Take the entrance exam on the scheduled date. This exam assesses your design aptitude, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Interview and Group Discussion: After clearing the written exam, some institutes may conduct an interview and/or group discussion to evaluate your communication skills, personality, and suitability for the program.
  • Merit List: Institutes will typically publish a merit list based on the performance of candidates in the entrance exam, interviews, and other assessment criteria.
  • Counseling and Seat Allotment: If your name appears in the merit list, you will be invited to participate in counseling sessions where you can select your course and institute based on your rank and preference.
  • Document Verification: Once you secure a seat, you will need to undergo document verification to confirm your eligibility and identity.
  • Payment of Fees: Pay the admission fees and complete the formalities to secure your admission.

It's important to note that the specific admission process and requirements may vary from one institute to another, so it's essential to carefully review the admission notifications and guidelines provided by the institute you are interested in. Additionally, start preparing well in advance, as design courses can be highly competitive, and a strong portfolio and performance in the entrance exam are crucial for securing admission.

Entrance Examination

Some of the top private design colleges in India prefer the national level entrance examinations for admissions, while others conduct their own entrance examinations. Some of the important entrance examinations for admission to the top design colleges in India are mentioned below.

AIEEDSEEDUID Aptitude Test
UCEEDIIAD Entrance ExamFDDI AIST
GD Goenka DATNIFT Entrance ExamPearl Academy Entrance Exam
NID Entrance ExamCEEDDE-CODE
AIFD CATMDATMUST CFDM
CUCETMUSATUGC NET
SHIATS Entrance Exam  

NID DAT (National Institute of Design - Design Aptitude Test): 

NID DAT is a highly prestigious entrance exam for design aspirants. It evaluates creativity, problem-solving skills, and design aptitude. Successful performance in NID DAT is crucial for securing admission to undergraduate and postgraduate design programs at the National Institute of Design, which is renowned for its innovative and industry-relevant design education. Some of the best fashion designing institute in India accept this examination.

NIFT Entrance Exam (National Institute of Fashion Technology):

The NIFT entrance exam is the gateway to the best fashion designing institute in India. It assesses a candidate's creative and analytical skills, including drawing, reasoning, and communication. Successful candidates gain admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fashion, textiles, and design at NIFT campuses across India. 

UCEED (Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design): 

UCEED is jointly conducted by select IITs and is specifically designed for undergraduate design aspirants. The exam assesses a candidate's aptitude in design thinking, visualization, and problem-solving. High scores in UCEED open doors to prestigious design programs at IIT Bombay, IIT Guwahati, and IIT Hyderabad. All the top government fashion designing colleges in India accept UCEED Scores.

CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design): 

CEED is an important entrance exam for postgraduate design programs. Administered by IIT Bombay, CEED evaluates a candidate's creative and logical abilities. Admission to M.Des. and Ph.D. design programs in various IITs and other top design institutes in India is based on CEED scores, making it a crucial step for design enthusiasts.

Pearl Academy Entrance Exam: 

Pearl Academy, a top institute for interior designing in india, conducts its entrance exam to assess candidates' aptitude and creativity. Successful performance in this exam leads to admission in a variety of design and fashion programs at Pearl Academy's campuses, providing a strong foundation for design careers.

Syllabus

The syllabus for design courses in India can vary depending on the specific design program, level (undergraduate or postgraduate), and institute. However, I can provide a general overview of the common subjects and topics often included in design course syllabi:

Foundation Courses:

SubjectsDetails
Design FundamentalsCovers the basic principles of design, including elements such as line, shape, color, texture, and form.
Drawing and SketchingDevelops freehand drawing skills, observational drawing, and rendering techniques.
Design HistoryExplores the history and evolution of art and design, studying various design movements and influential designers.
Visual CommunicationTeaches visual communication techniques, including typography, layout, and composition.
Design ThinkingIntroduces the concept of design thinking, problem-solving, and user-centered design.

Core Design Subjects:

SubjectsDetails
Studio CoursesPractical design projects where students apply design principles to create products, graphics, or interior spaces.
Color TheoryIn-depth study of color psychology, color harmony, and its application in design.
Material StudiesUnderstanding different materials, their properties, and applications in design projects.
Human-Centered DesignFocuses on user-centric design, usability, and user experience (UX) principles.
Digital DesignCovers software tools and techniques for graphic design, 3D modeling, and digital media production.
Design ResearchMethods for conducting design research, user interviews, and surveys to inform design decisions.
Sustainability in DesignAddresses sustainable design practices, eco-friendly materials, and environmental considerations.
Design Project ManagementTeaches project planning, budgeting, and time management skills for design projects.
Portfolio DevelopmentGuides students in creating a professional design portfolio showcasing their work.

Specialized Electives (Dependent on Specialization):

SubjectsDetails
Fashion DesignCourses may include pattern making, garment construction, textile science, and fashion illustration. Top fashion technology colleges in india offer different subjects.
Graphic DesignAdvanced courses in typography, branding, web design, and packaging design.
Interior DesignSpace planning, furniture design, and architectural drawing.
Industrial/Product DesignCourses on product development, manufacturing processes, and design for mass production.
Animation and Multimedia DesignAdvanced animation techniques, 3D modeling, and interactive media.
Textile DesignAdvanced textile techniques, surface design, and fabric printing.
Automobile DesignCourses on automotive aesthetics, engineering, and prototyping.
Jewelry DesignJewelry-making techniques, gemology, and jewelry business management.

Practical Work and Internships:

Many design programs incorporate practical design projects, workshops, and internships to provide students with real-world experience and exposure to the industry.

The specific syllabus and course structure can differ between design institutes and programs, so it is important to review the detailed curriculum provided by the institution you are interested in to understand the particular topics and courses covered in your chosen design program.

Fee

The average fee for design courses at top design colleges in India can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the level of the program (undergraduate or postgraduate), the institute or university offering the course, the specialization, and whether the institution is public or private. Here's a rough estimate of the average fee range for design courses in India:

Undergraduate Design Courses (e.g., Bachelor of Design - B.Des):

  • Public Institutes: The average annual tuition fee at top government fashion designing colleges in India like the National Institute of Design (NID) and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) can range from INR 20,000 to INR 2,00,000 for Indian students.
  • Private Institutes: Top private design colleges in India often have higher tuition fees, with average annual fees ranging from INR 2,00,000 to INR 6,00,000 or more.

Postgraduate Design Courses (e.g., Master of Design - M.Des):

  • Public Institutes: Top government fashion designing colleges in India typically offer postgraduate programs at a lower cost, with annual fees ranging from INR 20,000 to INR 2,00,000 for Indian students.
  • Private Institutes: Top private design colleges in India may charge higher fees for postgraduate courses, with average annual fees ranging from INR 2,00,000 to INR 6,00,000 or more.

Specialized Design Institutes (e.g., Pearl Academy, Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology, etc.):

  • Top private design colleges in India often have a broader fee range, with annual fees for undergraduate and postgraduate design programs ranging from INR 1,50,000 to INR 8,00,000 or more.

It's essential to note that these figures are approximate and can vary widely based on factors such as the location of the institute, the reputation of the fashion designing university in India, the specific specialization within design, and whether the student is from India or an international applicant. Additionally, some institutes may offer scholarships or financial aid to eligible students, which can help offset tuition costs.

Prospective students are advised to check the official websites of the top design institutes in India they are interested in and review their specific fee structures, as well as any available scholarships or financial assistance programs. It's also a good practice to consider other expenses, such as living costs, materials, and equipment, when budgeting for a design education in India.

Careers

The students can get a high paying job after completing their academic process at the top private design colleges in India. Some of the professions and employment areas are mentioned in the below table.

Job Profiles 

Leather DesignerGame DesignerIndustrial Designer
Apparel DesignerInterior DesignerFashion Designer
Automotive DesignerAccessory DesignerInformation Designer
Footwear DesignerCeramic & Glass DesignerKnitwear Designer
Web DesignerGraphic DesignerProduct Designer
Textile DesignerFurniture DesignerExhibition Designer
Toy Designer  

Top Recruiters

Madura GarmentsProlineOrient Craft
SpykarLevis LifestyleSnapdeal
ITC Ltd.Omega DesignsRaymonds
Shahi ExportsArvind GarmentsSwarovski India
Modelama ExportsSpan IndiaBenetton
MahajanPantaloonIndus League Clothing
OverseasKimayaShoppers Stop
Gokaldas ImagesTexport OverseasUni Style India
Pearl Global  

Students with creative minds are the most desirable candidates to enroll in design courses.

Students can choose the best college that matches their desires and has the best possible career in this field of study.

FAQs

What are the different types of design courses available at the top design colleges in India?

India offers a wide range of design courses including Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Interior Design, Product Design, Animation, User Experience (UX) Design, and Industrial Design among others.

What qualifications do I need to pursue a design course at best fashion schools in India?

The eligibility criteria vary for different design courses. For undergraduate programs, you generally need to have completed 10+2 or its equivalent. For postgraduate courses, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required.

Which are the top design institutes in India?

Some of the top design institutes in India include the National Institute of Design (NID), National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Industrial Design Centre (IIT Bombay), and Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology.

What is the duration of design courses in India?

The duration varies based on the level of the course. Undergraduate design programs typically last for 3 to 4 years, while postgraduate programs usually span 2 years.

Are there any entrance exams for the best colleges for masters in interior design in India?

Yes, most reputable design institutes in India conduct entrance exams. NID conducts the Design Aptitude Test (DAT), NIFT conducts NIFT Entrance Exam, and various IITs conduct the Undergraduate Common Entrance Exam for Design (UCEED) for admission.

What are the career prospects after completing a design course at top government fashion designing colleges in India?

Design graduates can pursue careers as Graphic Designers, Fashion Designers, Interior Designers, UX Designers, Product Designers, Animation Artists, and Design Consultants. They can work in industries such as fashion, advertising, media, and manufacturing.

Is it necessary to have a portfolio for admission to design courses at best interior colleges in India?

Yes, many design institutes require applicants to submit a portfolio showcasing their creative work. A strong portfolio can significantly enhance your chances of getting admission.

Are there scholarships available for design students at top 10 government fashion designing colleges in India?

Yes, several design institutes and organizations offer scholarships and financial assistance to deserving and meritorious students. It’s advisable to check the respective institute’s website for detailed information on available scholarships.

Can international students apply for design courses at best colleges for animation and graphic design in India?

Yes, many design institutes in India welcome international students. However, there might be specific eligibility criteria and application procedures for international applicants, so it's best to directly contact the institutes for accurate information.

What skills are essential for a successful career in design?

Essential skills for a career in design include creativity, technical proficiency in relevant software/tools, communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to think critically and solve problems.

What are design courses?

The design courses are a mixture of technology and creativity. It nurtures the artistic creativity of the students and gives them the technical skills to create and design new products and services.

Which are the top recruiters for the best fashion design schools in India?

Shahi Exports, Span India, Benetton, Kimaya, Pantaloon, Pearl Global, Levis Lifestyle, and many more.

What are the top job profiles after design courses?

Footwear designer, Game designer, Leather designer, Furniture designer, Graphic designer, Web designer, and many more.

What are the top design entrance exams?

AIEED, SEED, UID Aptitude Test, UCEED, CEED, DE-CODE, and many more.

What is textile design?

The artistic and technical process of weaving or interlacing thread or yarn fibers to create flexible, useful, and aesthetically pleasing cloth or fabric that can then be printed on or otherwise embellished is known as textile geometry.

What is interior design?

The art and science of improving a building's interior is known as interior design. The goal is to create a more aesthetically pleasing and healthy environment for those who will be using the space.

What is web design?

The creation and upkeep of websites require a wide range of skills and disciplines, including web design.

What is fashion design?

Fashion design is the practice of incorporating design, aesthetics, clothing construction, and elements of the world's most beautiful things into clothing and its accessories.

Does the CUET exam include design courses?

Yes.

Is Ph.D available in design courses?

Yes

What is animation design?

The art of animation design entails producing visual effects and other designs for a variety of media, such as video games, motion pictures, and even social media posts.

What is the full form of UGC NET?

University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test.

What is 3D design?

In 3D design, a digital representation of a three-dimensional object or shape is made using software. 3D design is used by businesses and professionals from a variety of industries to teach concepts, develop products and customer experiences, communicate ideas, and improve lives.

What is urban planning?

Urban planning, also referred to as town planning, city planning, regional planning, or rural planning, is a technical and political process that is concentrated on the design and development of land use and the built environment, including air, water, and the infrastructure that enters and exits urban areas, such as transportation, communications, and distribution networks, as well as their accessibility.

What is the duration of the B.Des program?

4 years.

What is the duration of the M.Des program?

2 years.

Also Read: Top Universities in IndiaTop Engineering Colleges in India & Top MBA Colleges in India