M.Des
Master of Design
Top Entrance Exams for M.Des Admission (2026)
Admission to Master of Design (M.Des) programmes in India is primarily through entrance examinations. There are 3 major entrance exams for M.Des admission . Candidates should check the eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and important dates for each exam before applying. These exams are accepted by 7+ colleges offering M.Des across India.
| Exam | Conducting Body | Level | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CEED
Common Entrance Examination for Design |
IIT Bombay | national | Details |
|
NID DAT
National Institute of Design Design Aptitude Test |
National Institute of Design (NID) | national | Details |
|
NIFT
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Exam |
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) | national | Details |
M.Des Entrance Exam Schedule 2026
Key dates for upcoming M.Des entrance exams. Dates marked as tentative are based on previous year patterns and may change.
| Exam | Registration | Exam Date |
|---|---|---|
| CEED | 12 Oct 2025 * | 18 Jan 2026 * |
| NID DAT | 27 Oct 2025 * | - |
| NIFT | 21 Nov 2025 * | 08 Feb 2026 * |
* Tentative — dates based on previous year trends and subject to official confirmation.
Tips for M.Des Entrance Exam Preparation
- Start early - begin preparation at least 6-12 months before the exam date, focusing on fundamentals first.
- Practice previous years' papers - solve past exam papers to understand the pattern, difficulty level, and frequently tested topics.
- Apply for multiple exams - register for several relevant exams to maximize your chances of admission to a preferred college.
- Track deadlines - keep a calendar of registration dates, admit card releases, and exam dates so you never miss a window.