CEED 2026 Exam: Fees, Pattern, and Eligibility for M.Des Admissions
The Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) is your key to postgraduate design programs at top IITs and other premier institutions. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details for design aspirants about the CEED 2026 exam, including its fee structure, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and preparation tips.

For design aspirants aiming to pursue a Master of Design (M.Des) or a Ph.D. in Design from prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) is a non-negotiable step. This national-level exam, conducted annually by IIT Bombay, is a gateway to shaping a promising design career in fields ranging from product and industrial design to UX/UI and visual communication. The CEED 2026 exam is a holistic assessment that evaluates a candidate’s creative aptitude, design thinking, visual perception, and problem-solving abilities.
Understanding the CEED 2026 Exam Structure
The CEED 2026 is a single, three-hour exam conducted in two parts: Part A and Part B. Both parts are mandatory, but Part B is only evaluated for candidates who qualify in Part A.
- Part A (Computer-Based Test): This one-hour section is a computer-based screening test consisting of three types of objective questions:
- Numerical Answer Type (NAT): For these questions, you enter a numerical answer using a virtual keyboard. There is no negative marking.
- Multiple Select Questions (MSQ): These questions may have one or more correct answers out of four choices. Partial marking is often applicable, and there may be negative marking for incorrect selections.
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ): These are standard MCQs with one correct answer out of four options. There is a negative marking for incorrect answers.
- This section tests a wide range of skills, including visualization, logical reasoning, general awareness of art and design, and environmental and social awareness.
- Part B (Subjective Drawing and Design Test): This two-hour section is a subjective, pen-and-paper test. The questions are displayed on the computer screen, and you must use an answer booklet to write or draw your responses. There is no negative marking in this part. It typically includes questions that assess:
- Drawing and Sketching: Your ability to accurately draw products, people, or scenes with good perspective and composition.
- Creativity: Your capacity to think outside the box and come up with unique design solutions.
- Communication: Your skill to convey ideas clearly through both text and visuals.
- Problem Identification: Your ability to understand user needs and contexts.
Important Dates and Application Fees
The application process for CEED 2026 is expected to begin in the first week of October 2025. This is a crucial window for all design aspirants to register for the exam.
- Application Fees: The fee must be paid online and is non-refundable. It varies by category:
- ₹2,000 for all women candidates, and for SC, ST, and PwD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates.
- ₹4,000 for all other candidates.
It is advisable to apply before the regular deadline to avoid a late fee, which is an additional ₹500. The CEED exam is tentatively scheduled for January 18, 2026. The results are typically declared in March, after which shortlisted candidates apply directly to the participating institutions for further admission rounds, which may include portfolio reviews and personal interviews.
Eligibility and Preparation Strategy
To be eligible for the CEED 2026 exam, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree, diploma, or a postgraduate degree program of at least three years (after 10+2). Students in their final year of such a program are also eligible to apply, provided they submit their final results by July 2026. Importantly, there is no age limit and no restriction on the number of attempts for the CEED exam.
For effective preparation, design students should focus on a two-pronged strategy:
- Mastering Part A: Regularly practice questions on spatial ability, logical reasoning, and general awareness. Taking timed mock tests is essential to improve speed and accuracy.
- Refining Part B: Dedicate time to improving your sketching, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills. Practice drawing from observation and conceptual sketching.
For regular updates on the CEED exam and other design courses, follow Only Education News. You can find more information and resources at https://www.onlyeducation.in/exams-list/design.