CEPT University to Accept JEE Main Paper 2 Scores for Undergraduate Admissions in Urban Design

CEPT University has announced a significant update to its undergraduate admissions criteria, expanding eligibility for its programs. The University will now accept JEE Main Paper 2 (B.Arch./B.Plan) scores, in addition to the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA), for admissions to its Bachelor’s in Urban Design (BUD) program offered by the Faculty of Planning.

The BUD program is a distinctive offering by CEPT University and remains the only undergraduate program in Urban Design in India. It is designed to equip students with the skills to engage with complex urban challenges through a combination of design thinking, planning principles, and socio-spatial analysis—enabling them to contribute to more sustainable and inclusive cities.

Until now, CEPT University has accepted JEE Main Paper 1 (Engineering) scores for admissions to its Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering (Hons.) program. With the inclusion of JEE Main Paper 2, the University aims to broaden access to high-quality design education and attract a more diverse pool of qualified candidates from across the country.

As an institution recognised as a Centre of Excellence in Urban Planning and Design by the Government of India, and a Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat, CEPT University continues to strengthen its commitment to advancing the highest standards in education, research, and practice. This expansion of eligibility aligns with its broader vision of making design education more accessible while maintaining academic rigour and national relevance. 

CEPT University has been ranked 6th in the NIRF 2025 Architecture and Planning category, making it the only private institution and the only university from Gujarat to feature in the top 10 for the fifth consecutive year since 2020. 

Under the revised criteria, candidates seeking admission to the Bachelor’s in Urban Design program must:

Have successfully completed their 10+2 (or equivalent) examination from a recognised board in India (including Gujarat, Diu, Daman, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli) and must have qualified either: 

• National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) conducted by the Council of Architecture OR 

• JEE Main Paper 2 (B.Arch./B.Plan) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) 

All seats for the program will be filled under the All India Category, ensuring a competitive and diverse student cohort. The merit list will be prepared by CEPT University based on candidates’ performance in the qualifying examination and entrance test scores.
This move reflects CEPT University’s continued commitment to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in design education. By recognising both NATA and JEE Main Paper 2 scores, the University aligns with national-level entrance frameworks and enables students from varied academic pathways to apply.