Top 20 Fashion Design Colleges in India 2025: Admissions, Courses, Fees, Placements
In today’s world, India has emerged as a leading hub for fashion and design which in turn has led to a growing demand for design professionals in the industry. Unlike earlier, aspiring designers now have access to some of the best fashion schools in the country, that offer world-class education, cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art campus and industry exposure. Whether one dreams of becoming a fashion designer, stylist, or entrepreneur, choosing the right college is crucial. This article explores the top 20 fashion design colleges in India, which will help students make informed decisions about their future in fashion.
- How Top 20 Fashion Design Colleges in India are Selected
- Top 20 Fashion Designing Colleges in India: India Today 2024
- Why Pursue a Fashion Design Course?
- Top 20 Fashion Design Colleges in India: Eligibility Criteria 2025
- Top 20 Fashion Designing Colleges in India: Admission Process 2025
- Top 20 Fashion Designing Colleges in India: Exam 2025
- Top 10 Fashion Designing Colleges in India
How Top 20 Fashion Design Colleges in India are Selected
Selecting the top Fashion Designing colleges in India usually involves a thorough assessment of various factors that include reputation and accreditation, quality of education, infrastructure, faculty, and industry exposure. You can refer below for the key aspects that are considered when determining the best B.Des institutions in the country:
- Academic Standing: Recognition by government bodies such as the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), University Grants Commission (UGC), or All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) serves as an important benchmark for evaluating colleges.
- Seasoned Faculty: Experienced and well-qualified faculty members play a crucial role in ensuring high academic standards and effective learning.
- Industry Exposure: Partnerships with leading companies and brands for curriculum development provide students with practical knowledge and a competitive edge in their careers.
- Diverse Specialisations: Colleges that offer a wide range of specialized courses cater to diverse interests and career paths, making them more desirable.
- Infrastructure: Modern facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology foster creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning.
- Scholarships: Financial assistance for meritorious and underprivileged students enhances accessibility and encourages talent.
By considering these factors, students can make well-informed decisions and choose the best Fashion Design college that best aligns with their academic and career aspirations.
Top 20 Fashion Designing Colleges in India: India Today 2024
Please refer to the table below for the top 20 Fashion Designing colleges in India according to India Today for the year 2024:
Admission to NIFT Chennai's Bachelor of Design (BDes) course is highly competitive, and candidates must meet eligibility criteria and clear the selection process. The admission process for the BDes course is based on the NIFT entrance exam, consisting of the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT). These tests assess a candidate's creativity, analytical skills and ability to think outside the box. After passing the entrance exam, candidates must clear the Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds, where they have evaluated their personality, communication skills, and aptitude for the course. Adequate preparation for the entrance exam and showcasing talent during the GD & PI rounds are crucial for securing admission to the BDes course at NIFT Chennai, which offers an exceptional learning environment to develop creative and technical skills in fashion design.
NIFT Kolkata eligibility criteria vary depending on the programme selected by the students. The institute accepts candidates on an entrance basis, however it is important that students qualify for the minimum qualification set by the institute as well. For NIFT Kolkata UG admissions, the student must not exceed 24 years (29 years for SC/ ST/ PWD category students) of age as of August 1 of the year of admission. Similarly, for NIFT Kolkata PG admissions, students must complete graduation from a recognised university.
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India Today 2024 |
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Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website of the ranking body listed and may vary.
Why Pursue a Fashion Design Course?
If you have a passion for creativity, self-expression, trends, etc., pursuing a fashion design course can be a great choice for you. You can refer below to know why students choose Fashion Design course as their career option:
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- Creativity: Fashion design allows you to bring your artistic ideas and creativity to life through clothing, accessories, merchandise, etc.
- Career Opportunities: Students can work as a designer, merchandiser, director, stylist, fashion consultant, or you can even start your own brand. The industry also offers opportunities in film, fashion shows, media, retail, and luxury brands.
- Global Industry: Fashion is a billion-dollar industry with demand for fresh ideas and unique designs worldwide.
- Personal Expression: Fashion influences culture, identity, and even sustainability. You can make an impact by promoting ethical fashion and inclusivity.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: If you dream of launching your own fashion label or boutique, this course can provide the skills and knowledge to do so.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website of the institute/exam.
Top 20 Fashion Design Colleges in India: Eligibility Criteria 2025
The eligibility criteria followed by the top 20 Fashion Design colleges in India can differ from college to college. However, you can refer below for the common eligibility criteria for admission to the best Fashion Design colleges in India:
| Course Level |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate/UG Diploma |
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| Postgraduate/PG Diploma/PGDM |
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| After 10th Diploma/Certification |
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| Doctorate |
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Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website of the institute/exam.
Top 20 Fashion Designing Colleges in India: Admission Process 2025
Admission to best Fashion Design colleges in India can be secured either on the basis of merit or entrance exams. You can refer below for the step-by-step procedure to be followed for admission to top 20 Fashion Design colleges in India through various entrance exams:
The B. Des programme has an intake capacity of 2,884 seats for All-India candidates.
In addition, there are 300 state-domicile.
Admission to the B. Des programme at NIFTs will be based on performance of the candidate in GAT CAT and Situation Test. Candidates are shortlisted for the Situation Test based on their performance in the written exams. The B. Des programme offers specialisation in Fashion Design (FD), Leather Design (LD), Accessory Design (AD), Textile Design (TD), Knitwear Design (KD), and Fashion Communication (FC). The candidate will be able to select their programme of study at the time of counseling and seat allotment.
Candidates must visit the official website of NIFT to register themselves for MDes course. NIFT Delhi MDes admission is based on an entrance test comprising of a Creative Ability Test (CAT) and a General Ability Test (GAT). Shortlisted candidates on the basis of CAT/ GAT test scores are then required to appear for a Personal Interview round, conducted by NIFT.
Admission criteria for MDes at the NIFT, Kannur, the candidates should have passed B. Des or any other graduate degree in a relevant discipline.
Step 1: Check the eligibility criteria for the Fashion Design course
Step 2: Read the official notification of the Fashion Design entrance exam
Step 3: Complete the Registration process for the Fashion Design entrance exam
Step 4: Download the admit card for the Fashion Design entrance exam
Step 5: Appear for the Fashion Design entrance examination
Step 6: Secure admission to the Fashion Design entrance exam
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website of the institute/exam.
Top 20 Fashion Designing Colleges in India: Exam 2025
Please refer to the table below for the exam schedule for admission to best colleges for Fashion Designing in India:
| Entrance Exams |
Exam Dates |
Entrance Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| NIFT Entrance Exam |
Over for 2025 |
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| CUET |
May 8 – June 1, 2025 |
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| CUET-PG |
March 13 - April 1, 2025 |
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| CEED |
Over for 2025 |
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| UCEED |
Over for 2025 |
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| CAT |
To Be Announced |
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| MAT |
23 Mar ' 25 |
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| GATE |
Over for '25 |
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website of the institute/exam.
Top 10 Fashion Designing Colleges in India
Listed below are the top 20 Fashion Design colleges in India along with their courses offered, tuition fee, placement package, etc.:
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Delhi
NIFT Delhi is a government-owned institute that was established in 1986. NIFT Delhi ranks no. 1 under the Fashion Design category by Outlook 2024. NIFT Delhi offers around 30+ UG, PG and diploma Fashion Design courses with diverse specialisations. The tuition fee for these courses is INR 70,800 – INR 12.34 lakh. Admissions to these courses are majorly done based on NIFT entrance exam scores.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Mumbai
NIFT Mumbai was established in 1995 and is ranked no. 2 by India Today 2024. NIFT Mumbai provides 20+ UG, PG and diploma Fashion Design courses with a tuition fee of INR 1.64 lakh – INR 12.34 lakh. Admission to NIFT Mumbai is through the NIFT Entrance Exam.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Bangalore
NIFT Bangalore was established in the year 1997 and is renowned for its knowledge of Fashion Technology field. NIFT Bangalore is ranked no.3 by India Today for the year 2024. NIFT offers 20 Fashion Design courses with a tuition fee of INR 74,340 – INR 12.34 lakh. Students can pursue Fashion Designing courses on the basis of NIFT Entrance Exam scores.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Hyderabad
NIFT Hyderabad offers 15+ UG, PG and CE Fashion Designing courses to their students. NIFT Hyderabad is ranked no.4 by India Today for the year 2024. Admissions to these courses are majorly done based on NIFT entrance exam scores. The tuition fee for these courses is around INR 5.86 lakh – INR 12.34 lakh.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Chennai
NIFT Chennai was established in 1995 and offers 20+ best UG, PG and Diploma Fashion Design courses with a tuition fee of INR 5.86 lakh – INR 12.34 lakh. NIFT College Chennai is ranked 2nd by The Week 2024 for Fashion Design. The National Institute of Fashion Technology Chennai has collaborated with the Ability Foundation, India. Admission to NIFT Chennai is through the NIFT Entrance Exam.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Gandhinagar
NIFT Gandhinagar was established in the year 1986. NIFT Gandhinagar offers undergraduate and postgraduate Fashion Design courses with a tuition fee of INR 5.86 lakh – INR 12.34 lakh. Students can pursue Fashion Designing courses on the basis of NIFT Entrance Exam scores.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Kolkata
NIFT Kolkata was established in 1995 and is ranked no.7 by India Today 2024 under the Fashion Design category. NIFT Kolkata offers 20+ UG, PG, CE and outreach Fashion Design programs with a tuition fee of INR 5.45 lakh – INR 12.34 lakh. Admissions to these courses are majorly done based on NIFT entrance exam scores.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology Patna
NIFT Patna offer was established in the year 2008. The institute has been ranked no.8 for Fashion Design by India Today 2024. NIFT Patna offers 9 UG, PG, CE and diploma Fashion Design courses with a tuition fee of INR 90,200 – INR 12.34 lakh. Admission to NIFT Patna is through the NIFT Entrance Exam.
- Pearl Academy
Pearl Academy was established in the year 1933 and offer 15+ UG, PG, distance and Diploma Fashion Design courses. Pearl Academy offers tuition fee of INR 1.75 lakh – INR 29.94 lakh for their Fashion Designing courses. Admission to Pearl Academy is through the Pearl Academy Entrance Exam.
- National Institute Fashion Technology Jodhpur
NIFT Jodhpur was originally established in 2010. Jodhpur NIFT offers 10+ undergraduate, postgraduate and Continuing Education (CE) Fashion Designing programmes to their students. The tuition fee offered for these courses INR 5.03 lakh – INR 12.34 lakh. Students can pursue Fashion Designing courses on the basis of NIFT Entrance Exam scores.
Check out the Links Below:
- Know all about BSc Fashion Design
- List of NIDs in India: Courses, Fee, Eligibility & Admission Process
- 15 Skills You Need as a Fashion Designer
- All About The Career As A Fashion Designer
- All you need to know about Career in Fashion Designing
- How to become a Fashion Designer?
- Fashion Designing Courses Abroad
- Launch Your Fashion Future: Guide to Fashion Design Courses Abroad After 12th
Aneena is passionate about helping students find the right college for the right course. She spends hours analysing college data to simplify the admission process for students. From B.Tech colleges in India to Law,
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There are 19 NIFT Colleges which offers admission for 2025 academic session. Candidates can choose their preferred campuses during counselling based on seat availability and rank. The names of NIFT 2025 colleges which are most popular are NIFT New Delhi, NIFT Chennai, NIFT Gandhinagar, NIFT Hyderabad and NIFT Kolkata.
The list below gives the names of all the NIFT Institutes in India:
S.No
NIFT Campus
1
NIFT New Delhi
2
NIFT Chennai
3
NIFT Gandhinagar
4
NIFT Hyderabad
5
NIFT Kolkata
6
NIFT Mumbai
7
NIFT Bengaluru
8
NIFT Raebareli
9
NIFT Bhopal
10
NIFT Kannur
11
NIFT Shillong
12
NIFT Patna
13
NIFT Kangra
14
NIFT Bhubaneswar
15
NIFT Jodhpur
16
NIFT Srinagar
17
NIFT Panchkula
18
NIFT Daman
19
NIFT Varanasi