Symbiosis Institute of Design to Open SEED 2026 M.Des Applications in January 2026

Aspiring postgraduate designers, prepare for the Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) M.Des 2026 admission cycle! Applications for the coveted Master of Design program are expected to open in January 2026. Candidates must apply online through the official SID website. The admission process relies heavily on the Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design (SEED), which is also scheduled for the first week of May 2026 for the M.Des program. This article outlines the tentative dates, eligibility, and the crucial selection stages, including the Studio Test and Personal Interaction (STPI).

For design professionals and graduates seeking specialization and an edge in the rapidly evolving creative industry, the Master of Design (M.Des) program at the Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID), Pune, stands as a top choice. Known for its industry-focused curriculum, particularly in fields like User Experience (UX) Design, SID's M.Des is highly sought after. As the calendar year draws to a close, anticipation builds for the official announcement of the M.Des 2026 admission schedule.

​While the specific dates are yet to be formally released by the Symbiosis International (Deemed University), the admission cycle for the M.Des program is expected to kick off in January 2026. This marks the start of the online application process for the Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design (SEED) 2026, which is the mandatory first step for all aspiring candidates. Given the competitive nature of the program, prospective students must use this preparatory period wisely to gather necessary documents and finalize their strategy for a successful application and entrance exam.

​Symbiosis M.Des 2026: Key Tentative Dates & Timeline

​The admission process for the M.Des program is spread over several months, contrasting slightly with the B.Des schedule. Aspirants must be aware of this extended timeline to manage their professional commitments and preparation effectively.

• ​Application Process Commencement: The online registration for the M.Des program at SID is anticipated to begin in January 2026, accessible exclusively through the official Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) admission portal.
• ​Entrance Exam (SEED 2026) Date: The SEED 2026 entrance exam, a crucial step for M.Des admission, is tentatively scheduled for the first week of May 2026. This date is specifically for the M.Des program and is distinct from the undergraduate B.Des SEED exam held in January.
• ​Last Date for Online Registration: The application window is expected to remain open until the third week of April 2026, allowing ample time for candidates to complete the process. However, early application is always advised.
• ​Studio Test and Personal Interaction (STPI): Following the SEED exam, shortlisted candidates will be called for the second stage, the Studio Test and Personal Interaction (STPI), expected to be conducted in the second week of May 2026.
• ​First Merit List Declaration: The final First Merit List for the M.Des program is likely to be declared in the third week of May 2026.

​ Eligibility and The Multi-Stage Selection Process

​Understanding the rigorous selection procedure and ensuring compliance with the eligibility criteria are non-negotiable for M.Des aspirants. The SID admission process is designed to comprehensively evaluate a candidate's academic background, aptitude, and design portfolio.

• ​M.Des Eligibility Criteria:
  • ​Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree of minimum four years' duration in any specialization from a university or institute recognized by law in India.
  • ​OR a full-time Diploma of minimum four years' duration in Design, Fine Arts, Applied Arts, or Architecture, obtained after the 12th standard or equivalent.
  • ​A minimum of 50% marks or an equivalent grade is required (45% for SC/ST candidates).
• ​The Three-Tier Selection Process:
  • ​Stage 1: Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design (SEED): This is an online, mandatory test that assesses a candidate's general design aptitude and awareness.
  • ​Stage 2: Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on their SEED scores.
  • ​Stage 3: Studio Test and Personal Interaction (STPI): This final stage involves: 
    • ​Studio Test (ST): A practical, hands-on test to evaluate problem-solving and visualization skills.
    • ​Portfolio Review (PR): Submission and review of the candidate's design work to assess quality, range, and creative thinking.
    • ​Personal Interaction (PI): An interview to evaluate communication skills, motivation, and overall fit for the program.

​ Preparation and Application Essentials for Success

​With the SEED M.Des exam scheduled for May 2026, candidates have a structured preparation period ahead. Focusing on both the entrance exam and the crucial portfolio stage will maximize the chances of admission.

• ​SEED Exam Preparation: 
  • ​The SEED M.Des exam pattern typically focuses on Design Aptitude, Creativity, Analytical Ability, and Domain Knowledge (e.g., UX principles if applying for that specialization).
  • ​Practice objective questions, particularly in visualization, logical reasoning, and general design awareness.
• ​The Design Portfolio: 
  • ​The portfolio is a highly weighted component. It should be a curated collection of your best design projects (academic, professional, or personal).
  • ​Include a variety of work such as sketches, digital art, product designs, UI/UX case studies, and photography. The portfolio demonstrates your technical skills and, more importantly, your design process and conceptual clarity.
• ​Application Fee and Documents:
  • ​The application fee for the SEED M.Des is approximately ₹3,250 (subject to official change).
  • ​Keep scanned copies of academic transcripts, caste certificates (if applicable), a recent photograph, and signature ready before the January 2026 application opening.

​Conclusion

​The opening of the Symbiosis M.Des 2026 application process in January 2026 is the official starting pistol for a new batch of postgraduate design aspirants. Given the extended timeline culminating in the May 2026 SEED exam, candidates have ample time to craft a stellar application and portfolio while mastering the entrance exam content. Staying updated with the official SID website and planning every step—from registration to the Studio Test and Personal Interaction—will be key to securing one of the coveted seats in the M.Des program and advancing your career in the competitive design landscape.