What is CEED? A Complete Overview of the Common Entrance Exam for Design

The Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) is a national-level test that opens the door to postgraduate design programmes in India. If you want to pursue a Master of Design (M.Des) at the IITs, IISc Bengaluru, or several other reputed institutes, CEED is usually the first step.

Who conducts CEED?

CEED is conducted by IIT Bombay on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Government of India. A fresh notification is released every year, typically in the second half of the calendar year, with the exam held early the following year.

Who is eligible?

In broad terms, a candidate should hold (or be appearing for) a bachelor's degree or diploma of at least three years, or a Master's degree, in any discipline. There is no age limit and no restriction on the number of attempts. Because the exact wording changes from year to year, read the current brochure before you apply.

Exam structure

CEED is a single three-hour paper split into two parts:

• Part A – computer-based, objective questions covering visualisation, reasoning, design awareness, and language. Part A is used to shortlist candidates for Part B evaluation.
• Part B – a hand-drawn section answered on paper but administered through the screen. It tests drawing ability, creativity, problem identification, and communication.

Score validity

A CEED score is generally valid for one year from the date of declaration of the result. The scorecard is used by participating institutes for their own admission rounds, which may include a portfolio review, studio test, or interview.

Where a CEED score is accepted

M.Des programmes at IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Kanpur, IIISc Bengaluru and IIITDM Jabalpur commonly use CEED, along with a number of private institutes. The list is revised each cycle.

How to apply

1. Register on the official CEED portal when the application window opens.
2. Fill in academic details and upload documents (photo, signature, category certificate if applicable).
3. Pay the application fee for your category.
4. Download the admit card when released and appear at your chosen city centre.

Note: DKosh is an independent educational resource and is not affiliated with IIT Bombay or the CEED/UCEED offices. Always confirm exam details with the official information brochure at ceed.iitb.ac.in and uceed.iitb.ac.in.