Top NID colleges in India - Courses, Admission Process
Updated On : May 15, 2024
Summary: Studying at an institution of learning excellence can change your life and kickstart your career with India's top design institute. NID provides a world-class design education that can help students improve their future. To understand better, a list of top NID colleges has been provided below with courses offered and eligibility criteria for admission.
The National Institute of Design (NID) is a statutory institute established in 1961 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The National Institute of Design has been designated as an 'Institution of National Importance' by the National Institute of Design Act of 2014.
NID is a member of the International Council of Design (ICD) and is registered as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation by the Government of India's Department of Scientific and Industrial Research.
NID is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in design. The school has a strong alumni network and provides good placement opportunities.
If you are interested in studying design, NID College should be at the top of your Design college list. Interested students should visit the official website at www.nid.edu/home.
List of NID colleges in India
The National Institute of Design is an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is internationally renowned as one of the finest educational and research institutions for industrial, communication, textile, and IT Integrated (experiential) Design.
The National Institute of Design has seven campuses - Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Bengaluru, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam. Here's all colleges accepting NID score in India:
How many nid colleges in India?
The list of best NID colleges in India is as follows:
| Top NID colleges in India - S. No. | Top NID colleges in India - Institute | Top NID colleges in India - Year Established |
| 1. | NID College Ahmedabad | 1961 |
| 2. | National Institute of Design, Gandhinagar | 2004 |
| 3. | National Institute of Design, Bengaluru | 2006 |
| 4. | National Institute of Design, Andhra Pradesh | 2015 |
| 5. | National Institute of Design, Haryana | 2019 |
| 6. | National Institute of Design, Madhya Pradesh | 2016 |
| 7. | National Institute of Design, Assam | 2019 |
National Institute of Design Courses Offered
NID provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate design courses. Bachelor of Design (BDes) programmes are for four years, and Master of Design (MDes) programmes are for two years. NID also offers a PhD programme in design.
1. B.Des is a four-year undergraduate programme with a solid foundation in design thinking, creative problem-solving, and technical knowledge. Students study design concepts in-depth, experiment with various mediums, and acquire hands-on experience through industry collaborations and internships.
NID offers B.Des in a variety of fields, such as:
Faculty & Industrial Design
- Ceramic & Glass Design
- Furniture & Interior Design
- Product Design
Faculty of Communication
- Animation Design
- Exhibition Design
- Film & Video Communication Design
- Graphic Design
Faculty of textile, Apparel, Lifestyle & accessory Design
- Textile Design
2. M.Des is a two-and-a-half-year postgraduate programme that focuses on specialisation and advanced design principles. Students conduct extensive study, conceptualisation, and prototyping to understand their chosen profession better.
3. The M.Des programme trains students to be design industry leaders with a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
NID offers a wide range of specialisations, such as:
- Communication Design
- Industrial Design
- Textile, Apparel, and Lifestyle Accessory Design
- Interdisciplinary Design Studies
- Transportation and Automobile Design
- Animation Film Design
- Ceramic and Glass Design
- Furniture and Interior Design
- Film and Video Communication
- Graphic Design
- Product Design
- Design for Retail Experience
- Digital Game Design
- Information and Interface Design
- Design for Digital Experience
- Toy and Game Design
- Photography Design
4. PhD in Design: NID provides a PhD programme for those interested in advancing the design field through research and academics.
This programme allows researchers to explore developing design theories, perform in-depth research, and contribute to the design conversation. Doctoral candidates cooperate with experienced faculty members to do cross-disciplinary research that pushes the boundaries of design knowledge.
Top 10 NID colleges in India: NID Admission Process
Admission to all programmes at NID is based on an aspirant's performance in the NID Design Aptitude Test (NID DAT). The NID admissions procedure is divided into two stages: NID DAT Prelims and NID DAT Mains.
The NID DAT prelims are a written entrance exam for BDes, GDPD, and MDes course admissions. Candidates who pass this admission phase can take the NID DAT mains, which include a studio test and a personal interview.
The ffinal NID DAT result is determined by dividing 40% of the candidate's NID DAT prelims score and 60% of the candidate's NID DAT mains score. (The weightage % may vary every year)
Interested candidates can apply for the NID DAT by visiting the official website at www.admissions.nid.edu. Aspirants are encouraged to maintain the necessary documents on hand ahead of time to avoid confusion and last-minute obstacles when filling out the application form.
Candidates can select the NID DAT exam centres after completing the registration form. The exam centres are the cities where the NID entrance exam will be held. The steps to apply for the NID DAT exam are as follows.
- NID DAT registration: NID registration involves filling out the application form, uploading documents and making the payment.
- Fill out the NID DAT application form: Candidates must fill in their basic details, including name, date of birth, address, contact information, academic qualifications, etc.
- Upload the documents: Candidates have to upload their photograph, signature, passport, and caste certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the NID DAT application fee.
- Download and print the application form for NID DAT for future reference.
Practice with: NID Mock Test Series by Creative Edge
Total NID colleges in India: NID Eligibility Criteria
Aspiring designers must meet the institute's eligibility criteria to be accepted to NID colleges in India. For various programmes, criteria could differ slightly. The general requirements for eligibility are as follows:
-
B.Des: Candidates must have passed or be scheduled to take their qualifying examination for higher secondary (10+2) from any recognised board, such as CBSE, ISC, or State Boards. The general category's maximum age is 20 years (three years might be added for restricted categories).
- M.Des: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree of minimum 4 years duration in any specialization. Student with 3year Bachelor’s degree can also apply provided they have completed the degree in previous year.
- PhD in Design: Applicants must hold a master's degree in design or a related discipline from a recognised university. In addition, they must have a minimum of three years of relevant professional or teaching experience.
Top NID colleges in India: NID Cutoffs
The cut-off of NID DAT is usually high as the NID is one of the most prestigious design institutes in India. Candidates planning to apply for the NID DAT should prepare well for the exam and aim to score high marks. NID releases category-specific cutoffs for each course offered on its campuses.
To be eligible for admission to top NID colleges, aspirants must meet NID cutoffs in the BDes, GDPD, and MDes courses.
Top NID colleges in India: NID Fee Structure
The NID is a premier design institute in India, with relatively high NID college fees. However, the quality of education at the NID is excellent, and the institute has a good placement record. The fee for NID courses differs for Indian nationals, candidates from SAARC and African countries, and those from the rest of the world.
Aspirants must pay the NID tuition fee every semester, whereas the other components of the NID application fee must be paid annually.
The fee for the BDes programme is approximately Rs. 3,94,400 lakh for the first year (sight increase in fee every year) for Indian nationals, and the fee for the MDes programme is approximately Rs. 4,58,400 lakh for the first year (sight increase in fee every year).
Boost your NID preparartion: Best NID Online Coaching Classes 2025 by Creative Edge
Top NID colleges in India: Placements at NID
Employers highly seek NID graduates because of their strong design skills and creative ability. The placements at NID are excellent. The NID placement drive 2024 concluded in March with an average salary package of INR 21.30 LPA.
A total of 124 companies, such as Google, Microsoft, Wipro, VIP Industries, and Trident Group, participated in the placement drive, and 90% of the students were placed. The most popular sectors for NID graduates were product design, graphic design, and interior design.
| NID Placement drive 2023 | Package (CTC per annum) |
| Lowest package | 12 LPA |
| Average package | 30.5 LPA |
| Highest package | 50 LPA |
Read more: NID Placement
How to prepare for NID Design Aptitude Test?
NID Design Aptitude Test, or NID DAT, is a national design entrance exam for applicants seeking admission to B.Des and M.Des programmes. The NID DAT is conducted in paper and pen mode once a year.
The NID DAT is divided into two stages: prelims and mains. Acing the NID DAT requires careful planning and an effective exam approach. Candidates should review the NID DAT exam pattern and syllabus before beginning their study for the design entrance exam.
Check: NID Syllabus 2025
Conclusion
Established in 1961, the National Institute of Design (NID) is a premier institution for design education in India. Recognized as an 'Institution of National Importance,' NID provides comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate courses across its seven campuses.
With a notable alumni base and stellar placement records, the institute's entrance, the NID Design Aptitude Test (NID DAT), underscores its commitment to fostering top-tier design talent. Aspiring designers eyeing quality education in design should place NID high on their list.
Download Your Free NID Prep Material
Fill your details
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different disciplines offered by NID colleges?
How is the admission process for NID colleges conducted?
What are the eligibility criteria for admission to NID colleges?
What are the fees for NID colleges?
What are the job prospects after graduating from NID colleges?
What are the alumni of NID colleges doing now?
How many NID colleges in India?
Top NID colleges in India - Courses, Admission Process
May 15, 2024
Summary: Studying at an institution of learning excellence can change your life and kickstart your career with India's top design institute. NID provides a world-class design education that can help students improve their future. To understand better, a list of top NID colleges has been provided below with courses offered and eligibility criteria for admission.
The National Institute of Design (NID) is a statutory institute established in 1961 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The National Institute of Design has been designated as an 'Institution of National Importance' by the National Institute of Design Act of 2014.
NID is a member of the International Council of Design (ICD) and is registered as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation by the Government of India's Department of Scientific and Industrial Research.
NID is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in design. The school has a strong alumni network and provides good placement opportunities.
If you are interested in studying design, NID College should be at the top of your Design college list. Interested students should visit the official website at www.nid.edu/home.
List of NID colleges in India
The National Institute of Design is an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is internationally renowned as one of the finest educational and research institutions for industrial, communication, textile, and IT Integrated (experiential) Design.
The National Institute of Design has seven campuses - Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Bengaluru, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam. Here's all colleges accepting NID score in India:
How many nid colleges in India?
The list of best NID colleges in India is as follows:
| Top NID colleges in India - S. No. | Top NID colleges in India - Institute | Top NID colleges in India - Year Established |
| 1. | NID College Ahmedabad | 1961 |
| 2. | National Institute of Design, Gandhinagar | 2004 |
| 3. | National Institute of Design, Bengaluru | 2006 |
| 4. | National Institute of Design, Andhra Pradesh | 2015 |
| 5. | National Institute of Design, Haryana | 2019 |
| 6. | National Institute of Design, Madhya Pradesh | 2016 |
| 7. | National Institute of Design, Assam | 2019 |
National Institute of Design Courses Offered
NID provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate design courses. Bachelor of Design (BDes) programmes are for four years, and Master of Design (MDes) programmes are for two years. NID also offers a PhD programme in design.
1. B.Des is a four-year undergraduate programme with a solid foundation in design thinking, creative problem-solving, and technical knowledge. Students study design concepts in-depth, experiment with various mediums, and acquire hands-on experience through industry collaborations and internships.
NID offers B.Des in a variety of fields, such as:
Faculty & Industrial Design
- Ceramic & Glass Design
- Furniture & Interior Design
- Product Design
Faculty of Communication
- Animation Design
- Exhibition Design
- Film & Video Communication Design
- Graphic Design
Faculty of textile, Apparel, Lifestyle & accessory Design
- Textile Design
2. M.Des is a two-and-a-half-year postgraduate programme that focuses on specialisation and advanced design principles. Students conduct extensive study, conceptualisation, and prototyping to understand their chosen profession better.
3. The M.Des programme trains students to be design industry leaders with a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
NID offers a wide range of specialisations, such as:
- Communication Design
- Industrial Design
- Textile, Apparel, and Lifestyle Accessory Design
- Interdisciplinary Design Studies
- Transportation and Automobile Design
- Animation Film Design
- Ceramic and Glass Design
- Furniture and Interior Design
- Film and Video Communication
- Graphic Design
- Product Design
- Design for Retail Experience
- Digital Game Design
- Information and Interface Design
- Design for Digital Experience
- Toy and Game Design
- Photography Design
4. PhD in Design: NID provides a PhD programme for those interested in advancing the design field through research and academics.
This programme allows researchers to explore developing design theories, perform in-depth research, and contribute to the design conversation. Doctoral candidates cooperate with experienced faculty members to do cross-disciplinary research that pushes the boundaries of design knowledge.
Top 10 NID colleges in India: NID Admission Process
Admission to all programmes at NID is based on an aspirant's performance in the NID Design Aptitude Test (NID DAT). The NID admissions procedure is divided into two stages: NID DAT Prelims and NID DAT Mains.
The NID DAT prelims are a written entrance exam for BDes, GDPD, and MDes course admissions. Candidates who pass this admission phase can take the NID DAT mains, which include a studio test and a personal interview.
The ffinal NID DAT result is determined by dividing 40% of the candidate's NID DAT prelims score and 60% of the candidate's NID DAT mains score. (The weightage % may vary every year)
Interested candidates can apply for the NID DAT by visiting the official website at www.admissions.nid.edu. Aspirants are encouraged to maintain the necessary documents on hand ahead of time to avoid confusion and last-minute obstacles when filling out the application form.
Candidates can select the NID DAT exam centres after completing the registration form. The exam centres are the cities where the NID entrance exam will be held. The steps to apply for the NID DAT exam are as follows.
- NID DAT registration: NID registration involves filling out the application form, uploading documents and making the payment.
- Fill out the NID DAT application form: Candidates must fill in their basic details, including name, date of birth, address, contact information, academic qualifications, etc.
- Upload the documents: Candidates have to upload their photograph, signature, passport, and caste certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the NID DAT application fee.
- Download and print the application form for NID DAT for future reference.
Practice with: NID Mock Test Series by Creative Edge
Total NID colleges in India: NID Eligibility Criteria
Aspiring designers must meet the institute's eligibility criteria to be accepted to NID colleges in India. For various programmes, criteria could differ slightly. The general requirements for eligibility are as follows:
-
B.Des: Candidates must have passed or be scheduled to take their qualifying examination for higher secondary (10+2) from any recognised board, such as CBSE, ISC, or State Boards. The general category's maximum age is 20 years (three years might be added for restricted categories).
- M.Des: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree of minimum 4 years duration in any specialization. Student with 3year Bachelor’s degree can also apply provided they have completed the degree in previous year.
- PhD in Design: Applicants must hold a master's degree in design or a related discipline from a recognised university. In addition, they must have a minimum of three years of relevant professional or teaching experience.
Top NID colleges in India: NID Cutoffs
The cut-off of NID DAT is usually high as the NID is one of the most prestigious design institutes in India. Candidates planning to apply for the NID DAT should prepare well for the exam and aim to score high marks. NID releases category-specific cutoffs for each course offered on its campuses.
To be eligible for admission to top NID colleges, aspirants must meet NID cutoffs in the BDes, GDPD, and MDes courses.
Top NID colleges in India: NID Fee Structure
The NID is a premier design institute in India, with relatively high NID college fees. However, the quality of education at the NID is excellent, and the institute has a good placement record. The fee for NID courses differs for Indian nationals, candidates from SAARC and African countries, and those from the rest of the world.
Aspirants must pay the NID tuition fee every semester, whereas the other components of the NID application fee must be paid annually.
The fee for the BDes programme is approximately Rs. 3,94,400 lakh for the first year (sight increase in fee every year) for Indian nationals, and the fee for the MDes programme is approximately Rs. 4,58,400 lakh for the first year (sight increase in fee every year).
Boost your NID preparartion: Best NID Online Coaching Classes 2025 by Creative Edge
Top NID colleges in India: Placements at NID
Employers highly seek NID graduates because of their strong design skills and creative ability. The placements at NID are excellent. The NID placement drive 2024 concluded in March with an average salary package of INR 21.30 LPA.
A total of 124 companies, such as Google, Microsoft, Wipro, VIP Industries, and Trident Group, participated in the placement drive, and 90% of the students were placed. The most popular sectors for NID graduates were product design, graphic design, and interior design.
| NID Placement drive 2023 | Package (CTC per annum) |
| Lowest package | 12 LPA |
| Average package | 30.5 LPA |
| Highest package | 50 LPA |
Read more: NID Placement
How to prepare for NID Design Aptitude Test?
NID Design Aptitude Test, or NID DAT, is a national design entrance exam for applicants seeking admission to B.Des and M.Des programmes. The NID DAT is conducted in paper and pen mode once a year.
The NID DAT is divided into two stages: prelims and mains. Acing the NID DAT requires careful planning and an effective exam approach. Candidates should review the NID DAT exam pattern and syllabus before beginning their study for the design entrance exam.
Check: NID Syllabus 2025
Conclusion
Established in 1961, the National Institute of Design (NID) is a premier institution for design education in India. Recognized as an 'Institution of National Importance,' NID provides comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate courses across its seven campuses.
With a notable alumni base and stellar placement records, the institute's entrance, the NID Design Aptitude Test (NID DAT), underscores its commitment to fostering top-tier design talent. Aspiring designers eyeing quality education in design should place NID high on their list.
Download Your Free NID Prep Material
Fill your details
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different disciplines offered by NID colleges?
How is the admission process for NID colleges conducted?
What are the eligibility criteria for admission to NID colleges?
What are the fees for NID colleges?
What are the job prospects after graduating from NID colleges?
What are the alumni of NID colleges doing now?
How many NID colleges in India?
