10 Best Fashion Design Colleges In India in 2026

Overview:

The blog lists the top 10 fashion design colleges in India for 2026. It features institutes like NIFT, UDIT (formerly IIAD), Istituto Marangoni, Symbiosis Institute of Design, and MIT ADT University, among others. These institutions provide a mix of creative education, technical skills, and global exposure, preparing students for successful careers in fashion. It also provides information on the average fee for studying fashion design in India and the various fashion design specializations available.

Table of contents

1. NIFT, Delhi
2. University Of Design, Innovation and Technology (UDIT), Delhi – Formerly IIAD
3. NIFT, Mumbai
4. NIFT, Bengaluru
5. Istituto Marangoni, Mumbai
6. Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune
7. MIT ADT University, Pune
8. Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), Gurugram
9. ATLAS Skill Tech University, Mumbai
10. Pearl Academy, New Delhi
11. How to choose: a simple guide for Indian students
12. What does a fashion design course cost in India? (2026)
13. Placements and returns: what to really expect
14. Placements at UDIT (2026)
15. FAQs About Fashion Design Courses and Colleges

Fueled by social media trends, accessibility and rising demand, the fashion design industry is thriving like never before, creating abundant job opportunities. To meet this growing demand, Indian colleges in 2026 have expanded their fashion design courses to be more comprehensive. These programmes incorporate sustainability, digital tools, and global trends. Moreover, design colleges offer a range of qualifications from Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Fashion Management (MFM) degrees to diplomas and certifications in fashion design.

However, choosing the right fashion design college and courses can make a huge impact on your career. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of top 10 fashion design colleges, each known for its innovative approach and strong industry ties.

How we chose these ten

We built this list from each college’s official sources, such as their admissions pages, fee pages and course details, and cross-checked the facts against public data in 2026. We looked at five things that matter most to an Indian student: how you get in and how hard it is, the total cost, how deep the course is, industry exposure and jobs, and the city. This guide is published by UDIT and it includes UDIT’s (formerly IIAD) own course. We are saying this openly so you can judge UDIT on the same five points as every other college.

Fashion design in India is in a good place for students right now, helped by social media, easier access and rising demand. In 2026, courses cover far more than making clothes. They now include sustainability, digital tools and global markets, across B.Des, Master of Fashion Management, and diplomas.

But the real choice is not which course. It is which college, how you get in, and whether you can afford it. Below is our shortlist. For each college we say plainly who it suits and where it falls short. Start with the table, then read the colleges that fit your route and budget.

At a glance

These are the full-course fees for 2026 as a rough guide. Please confirm them on official pages. The entrance route shown is the main path for B.Des.

1. NIFT, Delhi

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi, is a premier educational institute offering one of the best fashion design courses in the country. The curriculum covers garment construction, textile science, fashion communication and fashion management. Students are encouraged to develop their creativity through practical learning, industry projects and internships. NIFT Delhi focuses on promoting sustainability in fashion and equips students to understand the global impact of fashion design and business. The B.Des in Fashion Design here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: NIFTEE, the NIFT entrance exam run by NTA. It has a Creative Ability Test, a General Ability Test and a Situation Test. The 2026 exam runs in April and May, with registration from December 2025. NIFT has about 5,076 seats across all campuses in 2026. Delhi is the most competitive, with roughly 38 B.Des Fashion Design seats.

Address: NIFT Campus, Hauz Khas, Near Gulmohar Park, New Delhi 110016. Phone: +91 11 2654 2000

Verdict: The first choice if your exam prep is strong and you want the brand and alumni network. The catch is that Delhi seats are very hard to get, so keep a backup campus or college.

2. University Of Design, Innovation and Technology (UDIT), Delhi – Formerly IIAD

UDIT is the Delhi design school that was earlier known as the Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), set up in 2015. You learn by making, not just sketching. From the early years you drape, cut, make patterns and construct garments. Year 1 builds your design foundation, and by Year 4 you present a full graduate collection at a professional runway showcase. You also learn industry tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and CLO 3D, and use AI as a design aid.

Every semester includes real industry work through live projects, internships, craft clusters and masterclasses. UDIT’s course is a four-year Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Fashion Design, made up of eight semesters.

Key Features

Admission: Apply through UDIT’s own admissions process, which includes a design aptitude assessment, an interview and a portfolio review. You need at least 50 percent in Class 12 in any stream, and merit-cum-means scholarships are available.

Address: UDIT, Sector 68, Gurugram, Haryana – 122101, Phone: +91 11 41380000, M: +91 9871383633, Email: [email protected]

Verdict: A good fit for portfolio-strong students who want a small cohort, hands-on studio depth and a craft-rooted, industry-led course. This is our own school, and we are saying so openly. 

3. NIFT, Mumbai

NIFT Mumbai is a renowned fashion design institute that equips students with the skills required to excel in the global fashion industry. The courses focus on creative design, fashion management, and technology. Students are exposed to practical experiences through workshops, fashion shows, and internships. The curriculum also covers sustainability, design thinking, and digital technologies in fashion. The B.Des in Fashion Design here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: NIFTEE, the same national process as other NIFT campuses. The 2026 exam is in April and May.

Address: NIFT Campus, Plot No. 15, Sector 4, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai – 410210, India. Phone: +91 22 2774 7000

Verdict: Choose Mumbai over Delhi if being close to the industry and getting internships matter more to you than the flagship tag.

4. NIFT, Bengaluru

NIFT Bangalore is especially known for its focus on fashion design, technology, and business management. The institute offers a holistic learning experience through industry partnerships, hands-on projects, and exposure to fashion weeks and exhibitions. The curriculum emphasises design innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for dynamic careers in fashion. The B.Des in Fashion Design here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: NIFTEE. Bengaluru offers about 190 B.Des seats in 2026, which is a much better chance than Delhi’s roughly 38.

Address: NIFT Campus, C.A. Site No. 21, Sector 1, 27th Main Road, HSR Layout, Bengaluru 560102. Phone: +91 80 2255 2550

Verdict: The practical NIFT choice. It has far more seats, a tech-friendly city, and the same degree brand.

5. Istituto Marangoni, Mumbai

Istituto Marangoni is a renowned design institute that provides students with the techniques to create collections while responding to changing needs in the international fashion and luxury industries.

The curriculum focuses on garment construction, fabric analysis, and body proportions while exploring the impact of art and design on fashion. Throughout the course, students learn idea development through research and are encouraged to apply critical thinking to their own design processes. It also moves on to address key notions and techniques in fashion design, fabric and clothing manufacturing, as well as cultural studies. The courses here run from a one-year intensive up to a three-year BA, so you can choose a shorter or longer route.

Key Features: Istituto Marangoni, Mumbai

Admission: portfolio-based. There is no institute exam, though valid test scores are preferred. Note that Mumbai runs as a training centre or school, not a full degree-granting campus.

Address: Ceejay House, Level 6, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400018. Phone: +91 22 6249 9999

Verdict: Best if you want a fast, global-brand way into luxury fashion and do not need a four-year Indian degree. Check exactly what qualification you get before you commit.

6. Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune

Symbiosis Institute of Design provides students with a comprehensive curriculum where students gain practical experience, enabling them to confidently pursue careers in fashion design, pattern-making, garment manufacturing, craft studies and fashion merchandising. The programmes are guided by a team of professional faculty who mentor students on the Indian and global markets, business challenges, manufacturing processes, and marketing strategies, all while encouraging the development of individual styles. Internships, workshops, guest lectures, and industry visits are integral components of the curriculum. The B.Des here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: SEED, the Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design. The 2026 B.Des exam was held on 11 January 2026, followed by a studio test and interview. SEED tests colour, geometry, visual observation, design awareness, and your awareness of Indian craft and culture.

Address: SID, S.No. 231/4A, Viman Nagar, Pune 411014, Maharashtra. Phone: 020-26557210/203

Verdict: A strong all-round campus with good student life. Pick it if you want breadth across design, not just clothing.

7. MIT ADT University, Pune

MIT Institute of Design (MITID) is renowned for its emphasis on technology and quality education, which ensures that students pursue a fulfilling career in fashion design. The design programme builds a strong foundation in prominent areas such as colour theory, garment construction, material studies, and research. It maintains strong industry connections through live projects, external competitions, and collaborations with industry experts. The diverse faculty brings extensive expertise, with many continuing to work in the fashion industry. This ensures that the curriculum aligns with the latest industry standards and prepares students to compete globally by incorporating global fashion trends and practices. The B.Des here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: MITID DAT, the design aptitude test. The 2026 test was held on 12 April 2026, with studio tests and interviews in May. It has subjective and objective sections.

Address: MIT Art, Design & Technology University, Rajbaugh, Loni Kalbhor, Solapur Highway, Pune 412201, Maharashtra. Phone: 020-26912901/02/03, +91 95951 24234

Verdict: A good fit if you want design with a strong technology and live-project focus.

8. Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), Gurugram

The Delhi-NCR campus of UID offers a well-rounded course with modern facilities, advanced machines, and well-equipped workshops and labs. It covers fashion creation, styling, photography, media makeup, communication and entrepreneurship, with capstone projects. The B.Des (Hons) here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: UID’s design aptitude test and interview. Fees vary a lot, roughly Rs 24 to 40 lakh for the full B.Des (Hons) at the Gurugram campus in 2026, which is about Rs 2.75 lakh per semester for Indian students.

Address: Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), Delhi-NCR Campus, GD Goenka University Campus, Sohna-Gurugram Road, Sohna, Haryana 122102. Phone: +91 92666 63225

Verdict: A sensible NCR option for many design fields. But confirm which campus you are joining. Karnavati University runs UID Ahmedabad, while this Gurugram campus runs under GD Goenka University. They are different, even though they share the UID name.

9. ATLAS Skill Tech University, Mumbai

Located in Mumbai, ATLAS ISDI School of Design & Innovation is a renowned institute that empowers students to shape the future through design, innovation, and impactful solutions. ATLAS ISDI collaborates with the Parsons School of Design, bringing a global curriculum and access to renowned faculty, including leading designers, industry experts, and scholars. It instills in young designers a disruptive design mindset and a passion for emerging technologies and entrepreneurship. The design course is curated to nurture inquisitive minds through masterclasses, internships, capstone projects, and guest lectures and help students grow into global leaders who are progressive, inclusive and culturally aware. The B.Des here runs for four years.

Key Features

Admission: portfolio and interview.

Address: ATLAS SkillTech University, Tower 1, Equinox Business Park, Off BKC, LBS Marg, Kurla West, Mumbai 400070, Maharashtra. Phone: +91 80975 20624

Verdict: Worth the higher fee if the Parsons-linked global course and Mumbai network are what you want. It is one of the pricier options here.

10. Pearl Academy, New Delhi

Pearl Academy is a prestigious institute known for providing an industry-focused education that emphasises sustainable and practical design solutions while integrating cutting-edge technologies into its curriculum. Students participate in design workshops, garment construction, pattern-making, and draping techniques and delve into the history of fashion, trend analysis, and textile studies.

A significant focus is placed on technology, with students learning to use advanced software for design, illustration, and virtual prototyping. Students taking these courses can also expect diverse career opportunities, including roles as fashion designers, fashion illustrators, visual merchandisers, costume designers, fashion photographers and textile designers. The B.Des here runs for four years, and the M.Des for two years.

Key Features

Admission: the Pearl Academy Entrance Exam (PAEE). It has a General Proficiency Test (GPT) and a Design Aptitude Test (DAT), then an interview and portfolio. It runs in cycles in 2026, with sittings on 25-26 April and 22-23 June. You need 50% in Class 12. For 2026-27, B.Des Fashion Design works out to about Rs 31 lakh, which is roughly Rs 3.94 lakh per semester in year one, plus an admission fee of about Rs 85,000. Fees rise each year.

Address: Pearl Academy, A-21/13, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase II, Naraina, New Delhi 110028. Phone: +91 11 49807100

Verdict: A strong private option if you want tech-forward, sustainability-led industry prep and can fund the roughly Rs 31 lakh B.Des.

How to choose: a simple guide for Indian students

• Start with the admission route. If your exam prep is strong, NIFT gives the best value for the brand, and Bengaluru gives you the best odds. If you are strong at portfolio but not at exams, UDIT, ATLAS ISDI and Istituto Marangoni suit you better.
• Then look at your budget honestly. Government-backed NIFT (about Rs 11 to 13 lakh) is far cheaper than the Rs 24 to 40 lakh private colleges like Pearl, ATLAS and UID. Count city living costs and hostel fees, not just tuition.
• Then check how deep the course goes. Want breadth across apparel, craft and merchandising? Choose Symbiosis. Want design plus technology? Choose MITID. Want a fast, global luxury route? Choose Marangoni.
• Then look at jobs. Ask each college for its own placement report and median salary in writing, not just the highest package in the brochure.
• Then think about the city. Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and NCR open different doors for internships and work. Being close to where you want to work matters more than most students think.

What does a fashion design course cost in India? (2026)

Here are rough full-course fees. Please confirm the current figure on each college’s official page.

• Diploma in Fashion Design: about Rs 9 to 10 lakh
• B.Des: about Rs 13 to 20 lakh at mid-range colleges, rising to Rs 24 to 40 lakh or more at premium private colleges
• M.Des: about Rs 7.5 to 11 lakh

Placements and returns: what to really expect

At NIFT, jobs in design fields (Fashion, Textile and Communication) pay about Rs 7 lakh a year on average. The average for undergraduates is near Rs 4.5 lakh, and for postgraduates near Rs 5.7 lakh. The highest packages at top campuses run from Rs 12 to 17 lakh a year, and recent B.Des placement rates have been close to 99%. Private colleges vary a lot, so do not trust a single highest-package figure. Always ask for the median and the share of students placed.

Placements at UDIT (2026)

Out of the total students who opted for placement in UDIT’s 2026 B.Des batch, around 40% were placed by July 2026, soon after the course finished in May. The median starting salary was Rs 6 lakh a year, and the highest package was Rs 9 lakh. Recruiters included Pantaloons, boAt, Mars Cosmetics, Kingsman India and CP Kukreja.

A few recent examples: Helen Shilbi joined salescode.ai as a Motion Graphic Designer; Diya Saini joined Banjara Trail as a Brand Management and PR Executive; Vanshika Gulati joined Warehouse by Mudita as a PR, Marketing and Media Associate; and Muskan Kaur joined Pantaloons as a Store Visual Merchandiser.

FAQs About Fashion Design Colleges and Courses

1. Which entrance exams do Fashion Design colleges use in 2026?

NIFT campuses use NIFTEE (exam in April and May 2026). Symbiosis uses SEED (B.Des sitting on 11 January 2026). MITID uses the MITID DAT (12 April 2026). Pearl uses the PAEE (GPT and DAT, with April and June 2026 cycles). UDIT has the U-DAT entrance exam. ATLAS ISDI and Istituto Marangoni use portfolio and interview.

2. What is the average fee for studying fashion design in India?

Roughly Rs 9 to 10 lakh for a diploma, Rs 13 to 20 lakh for a B.Des at mid-range colleges (up to Rs 24 to 40 lakh at premium private colleges), and Rs 7.5 to 11 lakh for an M.Des.

3. What specialisations are available in fashion design courses?

Fashion design courses offer several specialisations, including:

• Apparel Design: Focuses on clothing and garment design
• Textile Design: Centers on fabric development and surface ornamentation
• Fashion Styling: Involves personal styling, editorial styling, and image consulting
• Luxury Fashion: Specialises in high-end fashion and luxury brand management
• Accessory Design: Covers designing fashion accessories like bags, shoes and jewellery.

4. How to become a fashion designer?

• Earn a relevant degree
• Develop a fashion design portfolio
• Gain practical experience through internships
• Stay updated with the market demands
• Network and promote your work on offline and online platforms

5. How to pursue a fashion designing course after 12th?

• Choose a Course
• Qualify for Entrance Exams
• Complete the Application Process
• Enrol in a Program

Choosing the right fashion design college is a crucial first step for any aspiring fashion design student. Your one decision can make or break your career and unlock numerous opportunities. We hope that this compilation of the best fashion design colleges in India serves as a valuable resource, guiding you through your research and helping you identify the crucial factors to consider before making your decision.

About the Author

Sukanya Bhattacharjee is a design writer based in Mumbai, with experience across architectural studios, real estate firms, and design education institutions. Her work covers interior design, visual communication, graphic design, and design thinking, drawing on hands-on design practice to bring a real-world perspective to every piece she covers.