
AIEED Eligibility Criteria 2026: If you are an aspiring design student looking to make your mark in the world of design education, the All India Entrance Examination for Design (AIEED) could be the perfect stepping stone for your future.
The AIEED exam is one of the most prestigious exams for undergraduate and postgraduate design courses in India, particularly for those looking to pursue programs at institutions like ARCH College of Design & Business (ARCH Academy).
Here, we will explore the AIEED Eligibility Criteria 2026, the requirements for both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs, and provide all the important details you need to know to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for this highly competitive exam.
The All India Entrance Examination for Design (AIEED) is a national-level entrance exam conducted annually for admission to various design programs. It evaluates a candidate's aptitude, creativity, and technical knowledge in the field of design.
The exam is widely recognized and accepted by leading design institutions across the country, especially for courses in design, fashion, interior design, product design, graphic design, and other related disciplines.
The AIEED exam is designed to assess the candidate's understanding of design principles, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking. The exam is held in both online and offline modes, depending on the year and specific examination requirements.
Before registering for AIEED 2026, it is crucial to understand the eligibility requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate design programs. Each program has distinct eligibility criteria based on academic qualifications and age limits.
For candidates interested in pursuing undergraduate programs in design, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
Age Limit:
Candidates must be at least 17 years old as of the year of examination (2026).
There is no upper age limit for AIEED UG applicants.
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must have completed their Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board, in any stream (Science, Arts, or Commerce).
Students who are appearing for their Class 12 exams in 2026 are also eligible to apply for the AIEED UG exam, but they must provide proof of passing their examination at the time of admission.
Subjects:
The candidate should have studied subjects related to design and arts, though students from all streams can apply. However, candidates from a background in Fine Arts or Arts will have an added advantage.
Required Skills:
Candidates should have a keen interest in design, creativity, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of design principles. These attributes will be evaluated during the exam.
Minimum Percentage:
Some design colleges may require a minimum percentage of marks in the qualifying examination (Class 12). This requirement may vary across institutions.
Selection Process:
Candidates will be selected based on their performance in AIEED, which includes an online test followed by a personal interview and portfolio assessment (if required).
For candidates looking to pursue postgraduate programs in design, the eligibility criteria for AIEED 2026 are slightly different from the undergraduate eligibility:
Age Limit:
Candidates must be at least 21 years old as of the year of examination (2026).
There is generally no upper age limit for postgraduate candidates.
Educational Qualification:
Candidates should have completed a Bachelor’s degree in design or a related field.
Those with a graduation degree in any discipline (Fashion, Fine Arts, Architecture, etc.) from a recognized university or institution are eligible to apply.
Candidates who are in the final year of their undergraduate course can also apply, provided they complete their degree requirements before the commencement of the PG program.
Required Skills:
The candidate should have a strong foundation in design concepts and techniques. Prior experience in the design field or a portfolio of design work is often beneficial but not compulsory.
Selection Process:
Postgraduate candidates will be selected based on their performance in AIEED and the personal interview. Additionally, candidates may be required to submit a portfolio that showcases their design skills and creative potential.
