Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12

Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12 | Complete Details on Eligibility, Fees, and Career Options after Design Course

Post By : ACS LKO Coaching, Lucknow Post Date : 01 Jul 2026

Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12

Choosing the Best Design Colleges in India after 12th is a significant step for young, creative people who want to build a successful and innovative career. Most people only associate design with fashion, whereas it now broadly covers product design, communication design, UX design, interior design and more. Nowadays, students want to attend a creative course that also matches what the industry actually needs. And entrance exam preparations, institutes like ACS can help with the admission process by providing the right guidance. 

Why Are Design Courses a Popular Career Choice After Class 12?

Design courses are rising in popularity tremendously, probably because they can offer both creativity and a career. Students can not only take a fashion designing course after 12th but also get into other design fields like product design, communication design, etc. and also become helpers of their own career progression with the help of practical training, portfolio creation and working on live projects. There is a good pipeline of designers being demanded by fashion distributors, digital marketing companies, advertising studios and startup organisations. Design professionals are also offered work schedule flexibility, the possibility of freelancing, and overseas work opportunities, among others. 

List of Fashion Designing Courses After 12th in India 

Those individuals aspiring to join the world of creation can select various Fashion Designing Courses after 12th that will assist them in developing both their technical knowledge as well as their artistic side.

  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) in Fashion Design
  • Bachelor of Fashion Technology (B.FTech.)
  • Diploma in Fashion Design
  • Advanced Diploma in Fashion Design
  • Certificate Courses in Fashion Designing
  • Integrated Fashion Designing Courses (B.Des + M.Des)
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Fashion Design
  • B.Sc. in Fashion Design
  • Fashion Illustration Certificate
  • Textile Design Course
  • Apparel Design Course
  • Fashion Communication Course
  • Styling and Merchandising Courses

These courses serve as the gateway to a career in design studios, fashion industries, retail stores, or even through entrepreneurship. 

Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12 at a Glance 

Design College

Location

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)

New Delhi (Head Office) with campuses across India

National Institute of Design (NID)

Ahmedabad, Gujarat (Main Campus) with other campuses in India

Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD)

New Delhi, India

MIT Institute of Design

Pune, Maharashtra, India

Pearl Academy

New Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Bengaluru

Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID)

Pune, Maharashtra, India

Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Arch College of Design and Business

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Amity School of Fashion Technology

Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

JD Institute of Fashion Technology

Bengaluru, Karnataka (with multiple centers across India)

 

Top Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12 

India is blessed with an extensive network of high-quality educational institutions, which provide excellent education in the field of design. The design schools of India distinguish themselves in terms of the stress laid on practical knowledge and innovation, and in the manner they ensure that the students stay close to the industry. In most cases, the students are given opportunities to engage in actual work through internships and exhibits. Entrance examinations, one of the critical aspects of admissions, highlight the significance of preparing adequately. The development of good portfolios by the students for future job placements and freelance jobs is another aspect that is emphasized at these institutes.

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)

NIFT is the most popular and oldest institution for design in India. This institute provides programs in B.F.D. and M.F.C.T. Students acquire their skills through practical experience, fashion shows, and exposure in the industry. Due to its excellent placement opportunities, NIFT has become the top choice for students who want to pursue their careers in the field of fashion and lifestyle.

National Institute of Design (NID)

This very well-established educational institution specialising in product, communication, and industrial design is also widely recognized for its outstanding educational philosophy. NID is a place where not only is one's mind redesigned, but one is also prepared to learn innovation, creativity, and the skill of solving unforeseen problems efficiently. Doing design projects under the guidance of experts, learning through research methods, is a great way to understand concepts. With the presence of a huge number of excellent faculties of world-class standard, the NID has made its image as a top design institution, not only in India but as a highly respectable one in the entire world.

Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD)

Being among the first new, very diverse, and popular design schools of the country, the Indian Institute of Art and Design offers deep and high-quality knowledge and skills to be gained by students in not only fashion but also communication and interior design. As the institute is following the industry needs very closely, it ensures to prepare students for making their portfolios. It further helps students widen their exposure to industry through various opportunities like workshops, internships, and collaborating with industry experts. IIAD produces mature graduates with a friendly and supportive environment and a curriculum that is updated regularly.

MIT Institute of Design

MIT Institute of Design offers education in product transportation, communication, and fashion design. The institute draws students towards innovation and implementation learning. Students undertake design projects that not only assist them in constructing their strong creative and technical skills but also the abilities required in the industry.

Pearl Academy

Well-known for fashion, interior, and communication design, Pearl Academy is one of the prominent institutes that provide education in these areas. This is due to the fact that it emphasises learning through experience in industry. The students have a chance to engage in activities such as participation in fashion shows, assignments, and internships that will help them build strong portfolios.

Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID)

The SID Pune provides education in Communication, Fashion, and Industrial Design. This institute is very much concerned with creativity, interaction, and innovation. The students here are trained through practical and live projects, which help them to deal with industry-related issues.

Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology

This institute of avant-garde art education is designed to encourage students to think creatively and develop unique ideas. It creates an open learning environment that can support research and project-based learning.

IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay

IDC IIT Bombay is one of the best schools of design in India, offering courses in product design, animation, and communication design. This institute gives students an opportunity to avail themselves of the best educational practices that IITs have to offer and state-of-the-art research laboratories. This institution is quite prestigious and highly respected.

Arch College of Design and Business

Arch College offers you a mix of courses in fashion, interior, jewellery, and product design. Learning through doing and being an entrepreneur lies at the heart of this institution. Students not only learn about the world through internships and industry tie-ups but also get hands-on experience.

Amity School of Fashion Technology

Amity School offers courses in fashion design and fashion technology. Students get well-planned work and practical training plus industry exposure. The institute supports students in sharpening their fashion-related technical and creative skills.

JD Institute of Fashion Technology

The JD Institute teaches fashion, interior and jewellery designing. We develop the students' skills as well as provide them with creative learning. Students are coming out of this institute with knowledge of the industry, working through various sessions such as workshops, projects, and portfolio development.

Eligibility Criteria for Design Colleges After Class 12 

Even though every university will choose its own requirements regarding admissions, especially in entrance tests, it is always better to be aware of the eligibility requirements of the institution of your choice.

Generally, the eligibility requirements at the fashion design institutions include:

1) Completion of 12th (10+2) from a recognized board (CBSE, ICSE, State Board, or any other equivalent).

2) A minimum of 50% in aggregate, although this may vary depending on whether it is a private or public university.

3) Students aspiring for diploma or certificate programs only need to have passed 12th from any stream, and there may not be a requirement for a certain percentage.

In addition, there is also an opportunity for those who do not have a 12th in one sitting, as the vocational diploma courses in fashion designing usually consider such students.

Age Limit Requirements

Age criteria differ from one institute to another. For instance:

1) NIFT permits UG candidates up to the age of 24 years, with a 5-year relaxation for reserved categories.

2) UCEED (IITs and some design schools) follow almost the same criteria for age.

Some of the most famous colleges also run entrance exams to judge the candidates' creativity, logical thinking and general awareness. Besides these, clearing a personal interview and/or portfolio presentation may also be required to get admission.

Streams Allowed – Science, Commerce, or Arts? 

Students of Science, Commerce and Arts can all enroll for most courses in Fashion Designing after their 12th grade. This does not mean that one has to come from any specific field to study design. Rather, one’s talent, observational powers and interest in design become more important. However, there might be some technical design courses which have an inclination towards science students.

Entrance Exams for Design Colleges in India 

Entrance Exam

Full Form / Related Institute

Purpose / Description

NIFT Entrance Exam

National Institute of Fashion Technology

Admission to B.Des, BFTech, and fashion design programs across NIFT campuses

NID DAT

National Institute of Design – Design Aptitude Test

Tests creativity, design thinking, and aptitude for UG and PG design programs

UCEED

Undergraduate Common Entrance Exam for Design

Admission to B.Des programs in IITs and other participating institutes

CEED

Common Entrance Exam for Design

Admission to M.Des and postgraduate design programs in IITs and IISc

MIT DAT

MIT Design Aptitude Test

Entrance exam for design programs at MIT Institute of Design, Pune

SEED

Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design

Admission test for design courses at Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID)

Pearl Academy Entrance Test

Pearl Academy Entrance Exam

Admission and scholarship-based entry for fashion, design, and media programs

How to Choose the Best Design College After Class 12? 

Choosing a good college plays a very important role in determining someone’s career path. There are various things that students need to consider when they decide on which college to join. Some of them are:

  • College Reputation and Rank
  • Faculty Experience
  • Placement Record
  • Laboratory Facilities
  • Internship Opportunities
  • Course Curriculum/Syllabus
  • Specializations available
  • Alumni Achievements

With proper research, students can choose the best path for their future in art.

Design College Fees in India

Fees of Design Colleges after 12th depend on the college. While government colleges have lower fees, private ones are quite costly. Annual fees might be between Rs. 50,000 to 6, 00, 000 and upwards. Besides this, students also need to keep in mind expenses on materials, projects, accommodation, etc.

Scholarships for Fashion Designing Courses After 12th

There are many colleges that provide financial aid to students who are very talented and are serious about pursuing Fashion Designing Courses after 12th. 

  • Scholarships based on merit
  • Financial help based on need 
  • Scholarships for entrance exams
  • Government schemes 
  • State Education Scholarships
  • Fee waivers based on talent 
  • Minority scholarships

Scholarships are a great help to students in eliminating their financial woes and being more focused on their academics.

Best Design Colleges in India Based on Specialisation 

Each college is good at a particular design domain.

  • Fashion Design: NIFT, Pearl Academy
  • Product Design: NID, IDC IIT Bombay
  • Interior Design: IIAD, SID
  • Communication Design: Srishti, NID
  • UX/UI Design: SID, MIT Institute
  • Textile Design: NIFT
  • Industrial Design: NID, MIT

Selecting a specialisation can greatly affect career progression.

Placement Opportunities After Studying Design

Designers who graduate from top design colleges in India after class 12 will have the chance to work in various sectors.

  • Fashion Houses
  • Advertising Agencies
  • Design Studios
  • E-Commerce Companies
  • Media Houses
  • Interior Design Firms
  • Product Companies

Having a strong portfolio and internship experience really enhances the chances of landing a good job.

Career Options After Completing a Design Course

Students who complete Fashion Designing courses after 12th have a lot of career options.

  • Fashion Designer
  • Graphic Designer
  • Interior Designer
  • Product Designer
  • UX Designer
  • UI Designer
  • Fashion Stylist
  • Textile Designer
  • Creative Director
  • Design Consultant

These are some of the careers in which a person can get creativity, growth, and financial stability.

What Can You Earn After Fashion Designing Courses?

Salary after design courses varies with the level of skills, experience, and reputation of the college. Freshers can expect to make anywhere from 3 lakh to 8 lakh annually. But, with time and capability, upward salaries can be obtained. And, freelancing and independent projects are options for higher income. The market is never short of demand for the best designers.

Conclusion 

Picking the best design college in India after class 12 is a critical decision if you want to have a career in a creative field. Students must review the colleges, courses, and their own career aspirations thoroughly before making an application. Design study offers different exciting career options in fashion, digital media, and product design. etc. If students take help from ACS at +91-8009534847, they will be well-prepared when the time comes for entrance exams and they will also get admissions in the best institutes. This will be the first step towards a successful future.

FAQs

Q. What are the best design colleges in India after 12th?

A. Top design colleges include NID, NIFT, Pearl Academy, and MIT Institute of Design. These offer strong training and placements. ACS also helps students choose the right college as per their goals and budget.

Q. Can I join design colleges after 12th without entrance exam?

A. Yes, some private colleges allow direct admission after 12th without entrance exams. But top institutes require tests. ACS guides students on both options so they can choose the right admission path easily.

Q. What is the eligibility for design courses after 12th in India?

A. Students must complete 10+2 from any recognised board with at least 50% marks in most cases. Eligibility may vary by college, but creativity and interest in design are always important for selection.

Q. Which stream is required for design courses after 12th?

A. No specific stream is required. Students from Arts, Commerce, or Science can apply for design courses after 12th. ACS advises students to focus more on creativity than their academic background.

Q. Can science students apply for design colleges in India after 12th?

A. Yes, Science students can easily apply for design courses. Design focuses on creativity and skills rather than stream. Many Science students perform very well in fields like UI/UX and product design.

Q. Can commerce students do design courses after 12th?

A. Yes, Commerce students can also pursue design courses after 12th. Many succeed in graphic, fashion, and interior design fields. ACS also helps Commerce students choose the right specialisation.

Q. Is maths required for design colleges in India after 12th?

A. No, Maths is not compulsory for most design courses. Basic understanding helps in some areas, but creativity is more important. Students without Maths can also build a successful design career.

Q. Which colleges offer graphic design courses after 12th in India?

A. Colleges like Pearl Academy, Amity University, and other design institutes offer graphic design courses. They provide practical training and software skills. ACS helps students select suitable colleges based on their needs.

Q. Which entrance exams are required for design colleges after 12th?

A. Exams like NID DAT, NIFT Entrance Exam, and UCEED are common for design admissions. Some private colleges have their own tests. ACS supports students with preparation and exam strategy guidance.

Q. When do design college admissions start after 12th in India?

A. Admissions usually begin between December and June. Dates vary by college and entrance exams. Students should stay updated and apply early to avoid missing important deadlines for design courses.

Q. What is the average fees of design colleges in India after 12th?

A. Fees usually range from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh for the full course. Government colleges are more affordable than private ones. ACS helps students find colleges that fit their budget and goals.

Q. What is the scope of design courses after 12th in India?

A. Design has a strong scope in India and abroad. Careers include fashion, UI/UX, animation, and interior design. With digital growth, demand for designers is increasing in many industries and companies.

Q. Which design course has the highest salary after 12th in India?

A. UI/UX Design, Product Design, and Animation offer higher salary potential. These fields are in demand in IT companies and startups. Skilled designers can earn well with experience and strong portfolios.

Q. Is design a good career option after 12th in India?

A. Yes, design is a great career for creative students. It offers growth, global opportunities, and good income. Many students prefer design because it combines creativity with modern career options.

Q. How to prepare for design entrance exams after 12th?

A. Practice sketching, improve creativity, and solve sample papers regularly. Focus on observation and time management. ACS also provides structured guidance to help students prepare effectively for entrance exams.

 

Popular Blog Posts

Our Popular Blog Posts

Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12
01 Jul 2026

Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12

Explore the Best Design Colleges in India After Class 12 for a successful career in design. Get complete details of the...

One-Year Study Plan for NIFT Aspirants
17 Jun 2026

One-Year Study Plan for NIFT Aspirants

Get a complete One-Year Study Plan for NIFT Aspirants to score higher. Open doors to the fashion industry with a NIFT en...

NIFT vs NID: Which Design Entrance Exam is Better?
16 Jun 2026

NIFT vs NID: Which Design Entrance Exam is Better?

Confused between NIFT and NID? Compare exams, courses, fees, eligibility, and career opportunities. Get expert guidance...

NIFT Career Opportunities After Graduation
16 Jun 2026

NIFT Career Opportunities After Graduation

Discover the best NIFT Career Opportunities after graduation for a successful and high-paying job. Get complete details...

NIFT Situation Test Preparation Tips
15 Jun 2026

NIFT Situation Test Preparation Tips

Learn the best NIFT Situation Test preparation tips, model-making strategies, creative exercises, mistakes to avoid, and...

Top 10 Mistakes NIFT Aspirants Make
11 Jun 2026

Top 10 Mistakes NIFT Aspirants Make

Check Top 10 Mistakes NIFT Aspirants Make during exam preparation. Get expert tips with ACS to improve your NIFT prepara...

Your Future Starts Here

Your Future Starts Here

Level up your skills

Enroll Now
Enquiry Now
REQUEST A CALL BACK

Leave your details and our training consultant will get back to you