IICD Commences New Academic Session; B.Des and M.Des Admissions Underway

: The Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD), Jaipur, has commenced its new academic session for 2025-26. This article outlines the unique curriculum, admission process, and specializations offered at the institute.

The Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD), Jaipur, a premier institution dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional crafts through contemporary design education, has officially commenced its new academic session for 2025-26. According to the academic calendar, the "PAWAS" semester for the new batches of undergraduate and postgraduate programs began on July 28, 2025, with campus registration and document verification being a key part of the initial phase. The formal orientation for the new students took place on August 1, 2025, marking the official beginning of their journey at the institute.

This marks a significant moment for the students who have successfully cleared the rigorous admission process for the B.Des, M.Des, and Post Graduate Diploma programs. The admissions for the 2025-26 academic year were conducted in multiple rounds, with the final fee payment window for the last round concluding on July 25, 2025. With admissions now officially closed and the new academic year in full swing, IICD is set to continue its mission of creating a new generation of designers who can bridge the gap between traditional craft skills and modern-day design practices.

A Unique Curriculum Focused on Craft and Design

IICD's curriculum is structured to provide a unique learning experience that emphasizes the synergy between craft and design. The institute offers a four-year Bachelor of Design (B.Des) program with specializations in:

• Soft Material Design: Textile/Furnishing
• Hard Material Design: Lifestyle/Product
• Fired Material Design: Lifestyle/Product
• Fashion Clothing Design
• Jewellery Design
• Craft Communication
• Interior Design

The Master of Design (M.Des) program, a two-year course, also offers a similar range of specializations. The curriculum for both programs integrates intensive studio work, theoretical knowledge, and real-world exposure to craft clusters across India. Students are trained not just to be designers, but also to be culturally sensitive, sustainable practitioners who can contribute meaningfully to the craft sector. The institute's focus is on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for leadership roles in the craft revitalization space.

Admissions and Selection Process

The admissions for the 2025-26 session were based on a comprehensive selection procedure that included a three-part entrance test. The test components were:

• Part A: General Awareness, Creativity & Perception Test: This section, which carried a weightage of 35%, assessed a candidate's aptitude for design.
• Part B: Material, Color & Conceptual Test: This offline test had a significant weightage of 45% and evaluated a candidate's ability to creatively use materials, visualize 3D forms, and solve design problems.
• Personal Interview: The final stage, which carried a 20% weightage, was a personal interview conducted via video call, where a candidate's portfolio and communication skills were assessed.

This detailed process ensures that only the most passionate and talented candidates are selected for the programs. While the admissions for the current academic session have concluded, IICD's website is expected to announce the schedule for the 2026-27 session later in the year, which will provide a new opportunity for prospective students.

Beyond the Classroom

IICD's commitment to its students goes beyond the classroom. The institute has a strong focus on industry collaborations, craft exposure trips, and placements. Students get the chance to work directly with artisans, understand their techniques, and create design solutions that are both traditional and contemporary. The institute’s approach not only educates designers but also supports the local craft economy and its communities.

As the new academic session kicks off, the campus is bustling with new energy and creativity. The students of the new batch are set to embark on a transformative journey, learning from experienced faculty and master craftspersons, and contributing to the vibrant legacy of Indian crafts.