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

Updated on Mar 28, 2025 05:32 IST

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

 

Q:   What is BFA in Painting Course?
A:

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.

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Q:   Can candidate pursue higher studies after BFA?
A:

Yes, students can pursue advanced courses and higher studies like:

  1. Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
  2. M.Des (Master of Design)
  3. PG Diploma in Fine Arts or Animation
  4. Specialized certifications
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Table of content
  • 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
View More

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
  • Should have completed 10+2 from a recognized school.
  • Students waiting for 12th class results can still apply for the BFA in Painting Course.
  • Some colleges and universities may require applicants to clear an entrance exam or submit a portfolio showcasing their artistic abilities.
Minimum % required
  • Aggregate of 50% or more in any stream 
Age limit 
  • No 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.

 

Q:   What is the admission process for Drawing and Painting course?
A:

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.
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Q:   Is BFA suitable for someone with no prior art experience?
A:

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.

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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

IPU CET Exam Schedule

CUET 2025

CUET Exam Date Schedule

UGAT 2025

UGAT Exam Date Schedule

JMI Entrance Exam 2025

JMI Entrance Exam Schedule

MAH CET 2025

MAH CET Exam Date Schedule

Information source: Multiple official external sites, hence may vary.

 

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for BA LLB

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for BA LLB (with late fee)

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for LLM

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU BA LLB Answer Key 2026

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Exam Date - BA LLB

TENTATIVE
Mar ' 26

CUET 2026 Application Process

TENTATIVE
May ' 26 - Jun ' 26

CUET 2026 Exam

TENTATIVE
DatesPast 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)

Q:   When is IPU CET conducted?
A:

The IPU CET 2026 exam will be conducted from April 2026. The registration link for IPU CET 2026 will be active from February  2026 to April 2026. The IPU CET 2026 will be conducted for various courses by the university. 

Q:   Is it possible to pass MAH AAC CET without coaching?
A:

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.

Q:   How many times is IPU CET conducted in a year?
A:

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.

Q:   What are the important sections of MAH AAC CET syllabus?
A:

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 I​II
Drawing & Architectural Design Object study in Oil Composition
Semester I​V
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 VI​I
Composition from life Mixed media Painting Found object composition
Semester VI​II
Pictorial composition History of Art Painting Multi-object composition 

 

Q:   What are the subjects taught in BFA Painting course?
A:

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
Q:   What is the duration of BFA in Painting course?
A:

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

There are several BFA Painting government colleges recognized for their academic rigor, affordability, and strong industry connections.

Government Colleges for BFA in Painting

The list of some of the popular government colleges providing the BFA in Painting Course:

Colleges

Fees

Alagappa University

INR 34,100

Aligarh Muslim University

NA

Banaras Hindu University

INR 2,400

Bundelkhand University, Jhansi

INR 74,000

College of Arts, University of Delhi

INR 16,800

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University

INR 30,000

Jamia Millia Islamia

INR 50,200

Kurukshetra University

INR 1.42 Lakh

Maharshi Dayanand University

INR 52,800

Mumbai University

NA

Visva Bharati University

INR 3,360

Information source: Multiple external sites, hence 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

Academy of Fine Arts and Crafts

INR 5.96 Lakh

Artemisia College of Art and Design

INR 1.6 Lakh

Lovely Professional University (LPU)

INR 4 Lakh

Mangalayatan University

INR 1.6 Lakh

MIT School of Fine Art & Applied Art

INR 5.83 Lakh

Noida International University

INR 2.92 Lakh

Padmabhushan Vasantdada Patil Pratishthan College of Engineering

INR 2.51 Lakh

Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya

INR 1.49 Lakh

Sri Sri University

INR 4.8 Lakh

Swami Vivekanand Subharti University

INR 1.75 Lakh

Information source: Multiple external sites, hence may vary

 

28 Courses
2.4 K - 2.49 L
8 - 9 LPA
1.2 K - 13.2 K
4.0
27 Courses
2.9
3.3
1.4 L - 9.36 L
3.6
11 Courses
12.4 K - 16.8 K
8.5 - 16 LPA
3 Courses
480
16 LPA
Q:   Which are the best colleges to learn Painting?
A:

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:

  1. Kala Bhavana(Institute of Fine Arts) – Visva-Bharati
  2. Faculty of Music & Fine Arts – University of Delhi
  3. Sir J. J. Institute of Applied Art, Mumbai
  4. Faculty of Visual Arts – Banaras Hindu University
  5. College of Art – University of Delhi
  6. L S Raheja School of Art, Mumbai
  7. Bharati Kala Mahavidyalaya (College of Fine Arts)
  8. Department of Fine Arts, Kurukshetra University
  9. University College of Fine Arts, University of Mysore
  10. 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

3 Courses
50 K - 10.5 L
5.0
71.25 K - 6.22 L
80 K - 2.8 L
3.6 - 4.8 LPA
1.3 L - 14.2 L
4.35 - 5.5 LPA
2 L - 4 L
7.25 LPA

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

6 Courses
3.12 - 4 LPA

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

Google

AAPC

Green Gold Entertainment

DQ Entertainment

HT Media

Disney India

Saregama India Limited

Kalki Fashion

Information source: Multiple external sites, hence may vary

 

Q:   What type of jobs are there after BFA in painting?
A:

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.

Q:   What career options do I have in the arts and drawing field?
A:

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:

Q:   Which course is best for Drawing and Painting field?
A:

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.

Q:   What are the benefits of doing a BFA?
A:

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.

Q:   What is the procedure to pursue BFA (painting and drawing) and what are the career opportunities after the same?
A:

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

The cutoffs of popular BFA Painting and Drawing colleges is given below:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) : UPCAT 2024 Last Round Closing Rank (General-All India)Accordion Icon V3
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SpecializationsDown Arrow Icon
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College20232024
Axis Colleges37331934
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Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) : CUET 2025 Last Round Closing Score (General-All India)Accordion Icon V3
College202320242025
Banaras Hindu University461.79– / –– / –
Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya– / –149– / –
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BFA in Painting : KUK Entrance Exam 2025 Last Round Closing Percentage (General-All India)Accordion Icon V3
College202320242025
Kurukshetra University757080
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Popular BFA Painting and Drawing Specializations

Following are the most popular BFA Painting and Drawing Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular BFA Painting and Drawing courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in BFA Painting and Drawing.

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a month ago

The total tuition fee for BFA at Annamalai University DDE is INR 16,600. This information is sourced from official website/ sanctioning body and is subject to change. Aspirants have to pay the programme fee to confirm their seat in the university. Candidates have to pay the application fee in the st

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 2 months ago

The seat intake for BFA at Indian Institute of Photography is 18. Candidates who are selected for admission based on merit of Class 12 and the personal interview round must pay the tuition fees to confirm their seat at Indian Institute of Photography.

S

Sejal Baveja

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

To get into the Imagination Academy of Fine Art for the BFA course, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria set by the institute. Students must pass Class 12. Imagination Academy of Fine Art offers full-time BFA courses of four year's duration. 

S

Sanjana Dixit

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

For admission to the BFA course at Imagination Academy of Fine Art, students need to fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria in the first place. The selection criteria for this course are based on merit, and candidates must complete Class 12. 

P

Pragati Taneja

Contributor-Level 10

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