FDDI and CEPT University Join the UCEED 2026 Network, Announce B.Des Admissions Through UCEED Scores

Big News for Design AspirantsThe Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) and CEPT University will now accept UCEED 2026 scores for their Bachelor of Design (B.Des) admissions. This major expansion of the UCEED network opens up specialised opportunities in Footwear/Product Design and Communication/Interior Design. The application process is separate from IIT Bombay's central counselling. Read the complete article to understand the new application protocols, crucial deadlines (UCEED exam is on Jan 18, 2026), and how to strategise for a successful admission in the 2026-27 academic session.

The landscape of undergraduate design education in India has received a significant boost with the announcement that the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) and CEPT University, Ahmedabad, will now accept valid UCEED 2026 scores for their prestigious Bachelor of Design (B.Des) programs.  This pivotal decision, effective for the 2026-2027 academic session, not only validates the rigour of the Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED) but also dramatically increases the admission opportunities for thousands of design aspirants across the country.

​This development is a game-changer, especially for students targeting highly specialised design fields. FDDI, a Ministry of Commerce & Industry institution known for its focus on leather and footwear, and CEPT University, globally acclaimed for its programs in habitat, planning, and design, bring unique strengths to the UCEED ecosystem. As the UCEED 2026 examination, conducted by IIT Bombay, is scheduled for January 18, 2026, aspirants must immediately integrate this new information into their preparation and application strategy.

​ The Strategic Significance for Design Aspirants

​The inclusion of these two prominent institutions offers students access to diversified and industry-focused B.Des specialisations, moving beyond the traditional offerings of the IITs.

• ​Expanded Program Choices:
  • ​FDDI is renowned for its B.Des in Footwear Design & Production and Fashion Design. This provides a direct pathway for candidates interested in the specialised and booming retail and manufacturing sectors.
  • ​CEPT University, through its Faculty of Design, offers a comprehensive B.Des (Honours) with potential specialisations in areas like Product Design and Communication Design, which is highly sought after for careers in UX/UI and branding.
• ​Boost to UCEED’s Value: The growing number of institutes accepting UCEED scores solidifies its position as the premier national-level entrance examination for design, making securing a good UCEED rank more valuable than ever.
• ​Increased Seat Intake: While both FDDI and CEPT University will allot specific seats for UCEED-qualified candidates, this overall increase in options reduces the pressure on students relying solely on the limited seats at the IITs.

​ Essential Guide to the Separate Application Protocol

​A crucial detail for all aspirants is the nature of this inclusion. FDDI and CEPT University are categorised as Result-Sharing Institutions, which means their admission process operates independently of the centralised Joint Admission Process (JAP) conducted by IIT Bombay for the Participating IITs.

• ​Mandatory Two-Step Process: Admission to these two universities requires a mandatory two-step application: 
  • ​Step 1: UCEED Qualification: Candidates must appear for UCEED 2026 on January 18, 2026, and secure a valid UCEED Rank and Scorecard (expected around March 6, 2026).
  • ​Step 2: Direct Institutional Application: Aspirants must then submit a separate online application directly on the official websites of FDDI and CEPT University, adhering to their respective deadlines and application fees.
• ​Anticipated Application Window (Post-UCEED Result): 
  • ​FDDI B.Des: Direct application window is likely to be open from March to May 2026.
  • ​CEPT University B.Des: The application window is anticipated from March to April 2026, strictly following the UCEED result declaration. Candidates are strongly advised to check the official CEPT and FDDI admission portals regularly for precise dates.
• ​Potential Second-Stage Selection: While the UCEED score is the primary eligibility criterion, both institutes may employ their own final selection mechanism. This often involves: 
  • ​Portfolio Review: Assessment of the candidate's creative work, sketching ability, and demonstration of a structured design process.
  • ​Personal Interview (PI): A mandatory interaction to gauge the student's passion for design, communication skills, and career clarity.

​Key UCEED 2026 Dates and Eligibility Reminders

​As the deadline for UCEED 2026 registration (with a late fee) has passed, the focus now shifts to the examination and result-oriented strategy.

• ​UCEED 2026 Examination Date: 
  • ​The exam will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
• ​Eligibility Criteria (Quick Check):
  • ​Educational Qualification: Candidates from ANY stream (Science, Commerce, Arts/Humanities) are eligible, provided they have passed Class XII or an equivalent exam in 2025 OR are appearing for it in 2026.
  • ​Age Limit (General/OBC-NCL/EWS): Born on or after October 1, 2001.
  • ​Attempts: A maximum of two consecutive attempts is permitted.
• ​Post-Exam Focus Areas: 
  • ​Candidates must start preparing their design portfolio immediately after the UCEED exam, as the direct application windows for CEPT and FDDI will open quickly after the result in March 2026.
  • ​Thorough research on the specific B.Des courses, faculty specialisations, and campus culture of FDDI (various campuses) and CEPT University (Ahmedabad) is essential for a compelling personal interview.

​In Conclusion

​The formal association of FDDI and CEPT University with the UCEED 2026 admission cycle is a definitive win for the design student community. It marks a significant step towards diversifying design education and providing aspirants with specialised career avenues in the creative industries. For every UCEED-qualified candidate, this presents a golden opportunity to join a top-tier design school. The key to success now lies in rigorous UCEED preparation, meticulous attention to the separate application deadlines of these two new result-sharing institutes, and strategic development of a strong design portfolio.

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