CEED 2026 – Eligibility Criteria

The CEED (Common Entrance Exam for Design) is one of the most competitive design entrance exams in India, offering access to M. Des and Ph.D. programs at top institutions like IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IISc Bangalore, and many more. As the 2026 edition approaches, it is crucial for aspirants to understand whether they are eligible to appear for the exam or not. The CEED 2026 is not just about creativity and design talent – it also comes with specific academic and qualification-related requirements which are to be fulfilled by the candidates.

Basic Eligibility Requirements for CEED 2026

1. Educational Qualification:

• To be eligible for CEED 2026, a candidate must have completed or be in the final year of a qualifying degree by July 2026. Acceptable degrees include:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Architecture/Design (4-year program after 10+2)
• Professional diploma in Design/Fine Arts/Applied Arts (minimum 4 years)
• BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) (minimum 4 years duration)
• GD Art (Government Diploma in Art) with a one-year post-diploma work or academic experience
• Candidates with a 3-year degree (e.g., B.A., B.Sc., B. Com) are not eligible unless they also have additional qualifications (like a diploma) that meet the 4-year minimum requirement.

Final-Year Students: Candidates who are currently in the final year of their qualifying program are eligible to apply, but they must submit proof of completion by the time of admission (typically July 2026).

2. Age Limit: There is no upper or lower age limit for appearing in the CEED 2026 exam. Candidates of any age are eligible to apply, making CEED accessible for fresh graduates as well as working professionals and career changers.
3. Number of Attempts: CEED imposes no restriction on the number of attempts. Candidates can take the exam as many times as they wish, provided they meet the eligibility criteria each time.
4. Nationality: Indian and Foreign Candidates: Both Indian nationals and foreign nationals can apply for CEED 2026, provided they meet the same educational qualifications as prescribed for Indian candidates.
5. Special Provisions: PwD (Persons with Disability) Candidates: Orthopedically or visually impaired candidates are eligible to avail of a scribe facility for Part A of the exam, subject to the rules and documentation as prescribed in the application form.
6. Application Requirements: Supporting Documents: Applicants must upload a recent passport photo, signature, proof of qualifying examination, relevant category/PwD certificates (if applicable), and proof of age and nationality during the application process.
7. Admission vs. Exam Eligibility: Meeting the CEED eligibility criteria only entitles a candidate to take the exam. Admission eligibility criteria (such as discipline, marks, and portfolio requirements) for M. Des programs at individual institutes may vary. Aspirants should carefully check the requirements of each target institute in addition to CEED eligibility.

Additional Notes on Admission vs. Exam Eligibility

It is important to understand that qualifying in CEED does not guarantee admission. Each participating institution (like IIT Bombay, IISc, etc.) has its own admission criteria, which may include:

• Portfolio review
• Interview
• Minimum academic scores
• Institute-specific eligibility norms

Therefore, candidates must check individual institute requirements in addition to meeting CEED criteria.

Get details about CEED 2026 Exam Pattern

FAQs

Q1. Who is eligible to appear for CEED 2026?

Ans. Candidates who have completed (or are in their final year of) a 3-year degree/diploma/postgraduate program after 10+2, or the GD Arts diploma (10+5), by July 2026 can appear for CEED 2026.

Q2. Is there an age limit for applying to the CEED exam?

Ans. No, there is no upper or lower age limit for appearing in the CEED 2026 exam. Candidates of any age may apply.

Q3. How many times can a candidate take the CEED exam?

Ans. There is no restriction on the number of attempts for CEED. Candidates can appear for the exam as many times as they wish.

Q4. Are foreign nationals eligible for CEED 2026?

Ans. Yes, foreign candidates can apply, provided they meet the education and document requirements as specified for Indian candidates.

Q5. Does qualifying in CEED guarantee admission to M. Des programs at IITs?

Ans. No. Qualifying in CEED makes a candidate eligible to apply, but each institute may have its own admission criteria, such as minimum marks, portfolio requirements, or interviews. Aspirants must check institution-specific requirements.