BFA in Painting: Course Fees, Admission 2025, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Pallavi Priyadarshini PandaContent Writer
This is a UG Program of 3 to 4 years, that focuses on teaching about artistic expression through various media. After BFA in Painting, you can make a career as a professional artist, illustrator, art teacher, graphic designer, or art director.
BFA Painting and Drawings: Highlights
Check out the key highlights of the course here:
| Particulars |
BFA in Painting Course Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form |
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting & Drawing |
| level |
Undergraduate |
| Duration |
3- 4 Years (depending on the university) |
| Eligibility |
10+2 qualification with an aggregate of 50% marks from a recognized university |
| Admission Process |
Entrance-Based/Merit-Based |
| Entrance Exams |
IPU CET, CUET, MAH AAC CET, JMI Entrance Exam |
| Fees |
INR 5,000 - INR 4 Lakh |
| Colleges |
Lovely Professional University, Banaras Hindu University, Mumbai University, Jamia Millia Islamia |
| Average Salary |
INR 3 LPA - INR 15 LPA |
| Job Profiles |
Illustrator, Art Teacher, 3D Artist, Cartoonist, UX Designer |
| Recruiters |
Advertising agencies, Publishing houses, TV and Film studios, Design firms, and Museums |
Information source: Multiple external sites, hence may vary
Yes, students can pursue advanced courses and higher studies like:
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
- M.Des (Master of Design)
- PG Diploma in Fine Arts or Animation
- Specialized certifications
- BFA in Painting and Drawings Course Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2025
- BFA Painting Course Entrance Exams
- BFA Painting Syllabus
- Best BFA in Painting Colleges in India
- Popular Private BFA Painting and Drawing Colleges in India
- BFA in Painting Career: Scope, Job Profiles, Salary, Top Recruiters
- BFA Painting FAQs
- Course Cutoffs
- Popular BFA Painting and Drawing Specializations
- Most Popular Courses
BFA in Painting and Drawings Course Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2025
Below is the list of eligibility criteria to pursue a BFA in Painting Course:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification |
|
| Minimum % required |
|
| Age limit |
|
Information source: Multiple external sites, hence may vary
BFA - Painting Courses Admission
- Choose among the courses and colleges after browsing.
- See if the admission is through the entrance or merit.
- Appear for the entrance if applicable.
- Fill college registration form out carefully.
- Keep updates on the result notifications.
- Attend the counselling if shortlisted.
- Select the college and pay the fess.
- Start your acadmic journey after the document verification.
The Admission Process for different Drawing and Painting Course can be different but here is the common process of Admission:
- Step 1: Submit an online application with personal, academic, and contact details.
- Step 2: Appear for the entrance exam (if applicable), which may include a drawing test and/or art theory.
- Step 3: Shortlisted candidates may be called for a personal interview or portfolio submission.
- Step 4: After the exam/interview, candidates receive the admission offer and must confirm by paying the fees.
Yes, a BFA is suitable even for those without prior experience in Arts Course. Most programs begin with foundational courses to teach basic skills and techniques which makes it accessible for students are beginners. A passion for creativity and a willingness to learn are more important than prior experience.
BFA Painting Course Entrance Exams
Some popular entrance exams that aspiring students consider for admission in this course are as follows:
|
Entrance Exam Name |
Entrance Exam Schedule |
|---|---|
|
IPU CET 2025 |
|
|
CUET 2025 |
|
|
UGAT 2025 |
|
|
JMI Entrance Exam 2025 |
|
|
MAH CET 2025 |
Information source: Multiple official external sites, hence may vary.
Important Exam Dates
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 01 Feb ' 26 - 31 Mar ' 26 | AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for BA LLB ONGOING |
| 26 Apr ' 26 | AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Exam Date - BA LLB |
| To Be Notified | AMU BA LLB Answer Key 2026 TENTATIVE |
| Mar ' 26 - Apr ' 26 | JMI Entrance Exam 2026 Application TENTATIVE |
| Apr ' 26 - May ' 26 | JMI Entrance Exam Dates 2026 TENTATIVE |
| Mar ' 26 - Apr ' 26 | JMI Entrance Exam 2026 Application TENTATIVE |
| Apr ' 26 - May ' 26 | JMI Entrance Exam Dates 2026 TENTATIVE |
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 21 May ' 23 - 08 Jun ' 23 | BHU CUET 2023 exam days |
| 09 Apr ' 23 - 11 Apr ' 23 | BHU CUET 2023 Application Window Reopened |
| 10 Feb ' 23 - 30 Mar ' 23 | CUET 2023 application process (extended) |
Yes, if a student wants to crack the MAH AAC CET Exam without coaching then it is possible with regular practice, MAH AAC CET Preparation books and online resources and videos. But, the students must dedicate their time without any delay and they need to be consistent with their speed, technique and skills to be able to finish the exam on time.
The IPU CET is usually conducted once a year. It is held for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU). However, for some specific programmes or in special circumstances, the university may hold additional rounds or tests, so it’s always advisable to check the official university notifications for the most up-to-date information.
Some of the important section of MAH AAC CET syllabus are as follows:
- Object Drawing Practical
- Design Practical
- Objective Type Theory
- Memory Drawing Practical
BFA Painting Syllabus
The list of BFA in Painting subjects-
| Semester I | ||
|---|---|---|
| History of civilization through visual art | Graphic Design & Geometry | Clay Modeling |
| Semester II | ||
| Fundamentals of Applied Arts | Painting (Composition) | Antique & Anatomy study |
| Semester III | ||
| Drawing & Architectural Design | Object study in Oil | Composition |
| Semester IV | ||
| History of Indian Art | Mural (Enamel) | Life Study |
| Semester V | ||
| Nature Study | Composition Painting | Drawing & Sketch |
| Semester VI | ||
| Method & Materials | Acrylic Painting | Nature Study |
| Semester VII | ||
| Composition from life | Mixed media Painting | Found object composition |
| Semester VIII | ||
| Pictorial composition | History of Art Painting | Multi-object composition |
BFA in Painting includes subjects such as drawing, color theory, and art history. The programme also features practical training to help students enhance their intuitive skills. Following are the list of subjects that are generally taught:
- History of civilization through visual art
- Graphic Design & Geometry
- Clay Modeling
- Drawing & Architectural Design
- Object study in Oil
- Composition
The BFA in Painting programme is a 4-year degree course divided into 8 semesters. Each semester focuses on different aspects of painting including drawing, color theory, composition, Indian and Western art history and contemporary art practices. In the final year, students create a portfolio of artwork and often participate in an art exhibition as part of their graduation project.
Best BFA in Painting Colleges in India
We have compiled several BFA Painting government colleges recognized for their academic rigor, affordability, and strong industry connections in this section.
Government Colleges for BFA in Painting
The list of some of the popular government colleges providing the BFA in Painting Course
|
Colleges |
Fees |
|---|---|
|
INR 34,100 |
|
|
NA |
|
|
INR 2,400 |
|
|
INR 74,000 |
|
|
INR 16,800 |
|
|
INR 30,000 |
|
|
INR 50,200 |
|
|
INR 1.42 Lakh |
|
|
INR 52,800 |
|
|
NA |
|
|
INR 3,360 |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Private Colleges for BFA in Painting
The list of some of the popular Private colleges providing the BFA in Painting Course
|
Colleges |
Fees |
|---|---|
|
INR 5.96 Lakh |
|
|
INR 1.6 Lakh |
|
|
INR 4 Lakh |
|
|
INR 1.6 Lakh |
|
|
INR 5.83 Lakh |
|
|
INR 2.92 Lakh |
|
|
Padmabhushan Vasantdada Patil Pratishthan College of Engineering |
INR 2.51 Lakh |
|
INR 1.49 Lakh |
|
|
INR 4.8 Lakh |
|
|
INR 1.75 Lakh |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now
Hey Nira,
From displaying paintings in a museum or art gallery exhibition to painting portraits in their own studios, some painters can make a living creating their works of art. Read on to learn more about the training, salary and employment outlook for this profession.
Definition of Painting in terms of Career: Painter artists, typically just called painters, commission their paintings to corporate or private collections, display them in art galleries or museums, or are hired to paint portraits or other works. Painters might also teach art classes in schools, conduct private workshops or classes, or restore antique paintings. They may also work as art critics for newspapers and magazines or as art directors for galleries or museums. Painters generally work in their own private studios or for established art studios and artist collectives.
Here are the top most colleges of the country popular for Fine Art and Craft:
- Kala Bhavana(Institute of Fine Arts) – Visva-Bharati
- Faculty of Music & Fine Arts – University of Delhi
- Sir J. J. Institute of Applied Art, Mumbai
- Faculty of Visual Arts – Banaras Hindu University
- College of Art – University of Delhi
- L S Raheja School of Art, Mumbai
- Bharati Kala Mahavidyalaya (College of Fine Arts)
- Department of Fine Arts, Kurukshetra University
- University College of Fine Arts, University of Mysore
- Department of Fine Arts, Aligarh Muslim University
Feel free to raise more questions. Hit like or mark it as the best answer if you found it useful. All the best.
Popular Private BFA Painting and Drawing Colleges in India
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open till May 31, 2026. Apply Now
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open till Mar 10, 2026. Apply Now
BFA in Painting Career: Scope, Job Profiles, Salary, Top Recruiters
An Individual can pursue different professions, from drawing to design, to painting, after their studies. Here are a few top professions one can pursue after their Drawing and Painting Course.
|
Drawing & Painting Top Job Profiles |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
|
3D Artist |
INR 1.6 - 7.9 LPA |
|
Illustrator |
INR 3 - 11.5 LPA |
|
Cartoonist |
INR 1.4 - 8.5 LPA |
|
Art Director |
INR 4 - 20 LPA |
|
UX Designer |
INR 3 - 21.9 LPA |
|
Product Designer |
INR 2.8 - 25 LPA |
|
Art Teacher |
INR 1.4 - 6.2 LPA |
Salary data is from Ambitionbox.com
Top Recruiters for BFA in Painting
Some of the top recruiters for BFA in Painting graduates are in various sectors. Candidates can be hired during placement drives or may apply off-campus after gaining some experience through internships.
|
BFA Painting Top Recruiters |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Times of India |
SKETS Studio |
Prime Focus |
|
Colors TV |
|
AAPC |
|
Green Gold Entertainment |
DQ Entertainment |
HT Media |
|
Disney India |
Saregama India Limited |
Kalki Fashion |
Information source: Multiple external sites, hence may vary
After completing graduation in BFA Painting, students have a choice to work as an art teacher, artist in government offices or photographer. You can also start your career as a freelance worker & go for direction, clothing, photography, television and fashion. You can also pursue careers in academia, architecture and the film industry.
You can join creative departments of magazines, advertising agencies, and newspapers in the publishing or the textile industry. Fine art graduates may also apply for mainstream graduate employment and training in a broad range of industries, for example, banking, art gallery, insurance, media and public relations.
The fine artists work is to produce artwork by using a wide variety of media and techniques. You can display your work in museums, private galleries or have a private collection and get rewarded for your work. The objects made by you will sell in studios, auctions, stores or at arts and crafts shows. The scope of fine arts is quite good, you can earn respect & money both for this professional career.
The multimedia artists and animators work in the motion picture or video gaming industries. Some of the Job profiles are: Art therapist Multimedia programmer Drawing Teacher Set Designer Production Artist Music Teacher Creative Director Editor Furniture Designer Art Director 3d Artist Animator.
Below is the list job profiles of this field:
- Arts Administrator
- Art Restoration Specialist
- Interior Designer
- Decorator-Wall Papering
- Painting Engineer
- Teacher
- Visiting Artist
- Commercial Artist
- Muralist Painter
- Comic Artist
- Art Director
- Animation Programmer
- Graphic Designer
Following are the Job Area in which a painting and drawing course graduate can work:
- Teaching
- Clothing industries
- Ceramics industry
- Textile Designing
- Digital Media
- Direction
- Advertising
- Software companies
- On-line services
- Film
- Television
- Fashion Houses
- Graphic Designing
- Printmaking
- Forensic Services
BFA Painting FAQs
Here are important FAQs related to the BFA in Painting Course:
Though there are tons of courses in the field of Drawing and Painting. One can choose to pursue them as a degree course, or as a diploma online or offline. Yet, there is one course that is most preferred by the candidates regarding the learning opportunities and the financial avenues attached to it.
Bachelor of Fine Arts is the course, which consists of the entire study of arts topic including painting, sculpture, literature, animation, and photography. In all, it sums up different facets that a drawing and painting student needs to know and learn.
Graduates of Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) courses can open new avenues for the students. A bachelor's degree in fine arts can prepare them for a professional career in the performing, fine, or visual arts. Students who are creative and artistic can study this course.
They can study photography, visual art, painting, mixed media, cinematography, and digital illustration as part of their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. They can find employment in several fields and enhance their career scope. Also, BFA helps them to enhance their pay scale as they climb the ladder of experience. BFA graduates can earn an average salary ranging from INR 5 Lacs to INR 25 lakh.
Click to learn - BFA Specialisations and Scope.
After completing class 12th, you can take admission in BFA in Painting. BFA Painting is a 4-year full-time undergraduate course divided into 8 semesters.
The programme is a specialised study of art history, life drawing, and research-led industry practice. Enrolled students are offered the opportunity to explore and work in and between disciplines including, but not limited to, sculpture, animation, performance, painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, and film.
Graduates holding a BFA degree may find careers as craft or fine artists, multimedia artists, actors, art directors, art teachers or writers. Students studying for this degree usually pursue majors like ceramics, creative writing, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, studio art, theater or art education.
Career Opportunities: Freelance Artist, Art Historian, Art gallery Curator, Art Director, Web Designer, Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Character designer in Animation, Art Director, Art Critic.
Top colleges for Fine Arts are listed below:
- J D Birla Institute - Kolkata
- Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar
- K J Somaiya College of Arts & Commerce, Mumbai
- Mithibai College - Mumbai
- Delhi College of Arts & Commerce (DCAC) - Delhi
Course Cutoffs
Popular BFA Painting and Drawing Specializations
Popular Specializations
- Visual Communication
1 College
Most Popular Courses
News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered a week ago
Application and entrance test fees paid for BFA admission at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE are non-refundable under all circumstances. This is regardless of withdrawal timing.
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Refunds are processed within 45 days from the date when Admissions Office receives hard copy of withdrawal application. Refund eligibility and deductions depend on date when withdrawal notice is submitted.
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
If withdrawal occurs on or after the class commencement/orientation date, physical reporting to the campus is mandatory. For hostel fees, INR 20,000 may be deducted, and additional deductions may apply based on the duration of stay. Program fee refunds are processed as per UGC norms.
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE, BFA students can expect to pay approximately INR 30.82 Lacs in total. This includes a refundable caution deposit and consistent annual fees of INR 7.58 Lacs each year.
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
BFA students can go for merit-based scholarships based on academic excellence, portfolio or entrance performance, need-based scholarships for financial assistance, and special category awards. There are UG scholarships like Freeship, Scholar, and Achiever categories that may also apply to BFA studen
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
After fee payment, a BFA applicant at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE is considered provisionally admitted. To withdraw, the student must submit an online withdrawal request through the MAHE portal. Depending on the timing, physical reporting to the Admissions Office an
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE BFA fee consists of a refundable caution deposit of INR 50,000 paid in the first year, an annual tuition fee of INR 4.32 lac, and an other academic fee of INR 3.26 lac each year. Annual fee is INR 7.58 Lacs from Year 1 to Year 4 which exc
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Beyond institutional scholarships, BFA students can explore external funding opportunities such as creative grants and international fellowships for example, Solitude Fellowship and other open creative grants. These support artistic practice and research beyond the classroom
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
While Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, MAHE does not list a dedicated internal scholarship exclusively for the BFA programme, students can access merit-based, need-based, and special category scholarships offered by the institute and through broader MAHE scholarship schemes,
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
BFA curriculum is developed to build individual artistic voices by combining practical skills. Through hands-on studio work, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary exposure, students get better in art, digital media, and film practices.
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE BFA curriculum includes study and practice in Contemporary Art Practice, Digital Media Arts, and Film. Students learn about artistic expression through media-agnostic art practices, digital moving images and animation techniques, and conc
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, applicants can apply for more than one BFA programme at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE within a single application. However, candidates must select their programmes in order of preference and can apply in only one admission round for the academic year. Admission d
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
After completing SMEAT, applicants must log in to their admissions dashboard to view their results. BFA admission outcomes at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE are published as Accept, Waitlist, or Regret. Selected candidates must confirm their seat by paying the welcome
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
SMEAT is mandatory for BFA admissions at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE. This test evaluates aptitude and readiness for undergraduate study. Admission decisions are made on merit based on SMEAT performance, except in specific cases where eligible UCEED candidates may r
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Round 1 of SMEAT at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE is scheduled to be held around mid-April (tentatively). This exam is part of the institute's multi-round entrance process that evaluates creative, analytical, and design aptitude. Official dates and any updates are com
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
For Round 1 admissions to the BFA programme at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE, the application form had to be submitted by 15 March. This deadline applies to all undergraduate design-related programmes including BFA and B.Des. Applicants must ensure their forms and fee
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
BFA course application process started in November when SMEAT registration opened online. Those who are interested in undergraduate programmes need to register and complete their application on official admissions portal. Check official website time to time for any updates or additional application
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE, BFA course admission is based on performance in the Srishti Manipal Entrance and Aptitude Test (SMEAT). This test assesses creativity, aptitude, and critical thinking. After that, an additional evaluation round will take place as specifi
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
For Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, MAHE, BFA course, you must pass 10+2 or equivalent with at least 50% aggregate from a recognised board/NIOS. You can also possess equivalent international qualifications (e.g., A-levels, IGCSE/IB/High School Diploma) as per institute norms
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, MAHE offers BFA course which offers specialisations such as Contemporary Art Practice, Digital Media Arts, Film, and Creative Writing. Students are trained properly within their creative field in an interdisciplinary environment.
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 weeks ago
BFA Filmmaking from Whistling Woods International can be said to be affordable or expensive depending on the ROI, Financial condition of candidates, willingness to spend and a variety of other considerations. As such students must consider the matter themselves after looking at the total tuition fee
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Yes, BFA course is available at The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship. The college offers BFA courses at the UG level. Candidate must meet the eligibility criteria to enrol for BFA course admission set by the college. Aspirants must pass Class 12 in any stream. The Indian College of Arts and
N
Contributor-Level 10
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The BFA in Painting is a dynamic and immersive undergraduate programme designed for aspiring artists to explore their creativity and refine their artistic skills. This course offers a deep dive into traditional and contemporary art practices which helps the students in equipping with technical proficiency in various mediums such as oil, watercolor, acrylics, and mixed media.
Alongside hands-on studio work, the programme emphasizes critical thinking, art history and conceptual development which fosters a comprehensive understanding of artistic expression.