Our five-pronged approach focuses on your individual strengths to develop your unique qualities towards making you an exemplary pi- designer.
Sukanya Bhattacharjee
01/11/2024
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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 2025 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.
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.
Address
NIFT Campus, Hauz Khas, Near Gulmohar Park, New Delhi - 110016, India. Phone: +9111 2654 2000
Key Factors
Details
Entrance Exam
Creative Ability Test (CAT) & GAT (General Ability Test) for undergraduate design courses.
Course Fee
12-13 Lakhs
Eligibility
10+2 or equivalent with at least 50% aggregate
IIAD design aptitude test (iDAT) and design simulation
Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD) is an award-winning design school known for its emphasis on innovative thinking, garment construction through reverse engineering and environmental consciousness in a supportive studio-based environment. Established in 2015, IIAD provides one of the best fashion design courses that combines theoretical pedagogy with real-time industry scenarios, shaping an individual’s creative process and style statement.
Created in collaboration with industry experts, the curriculum at IIAD ensures students develop research skills, excel in visualisation and experiment with materials to keep pace with current industry trends. Students gain hands-on experience and exposure to global fashion trends through real-world assignments, guest lectures and study-abroad options, preparing them to compete internationally. IIAD’s strong industry connections ensure that students have ample opportunities for networking, internships and job placements.
IIAD offers all kinds of exposure, whether it be national or international fashion design competitions, interactions with industry experts or in-depth discussions with the indigenous textile craftspeople and artisans.
IIAD, B-26, Okhla Phase 1, New Delhi 110020, India. Phone: +91 11 41380000, +91 98713 83633 Email: [email protected]
Duration
BA (Hons) Fashion Design 4 Years (UG), MA (Hons) Fashion Business Management 2 Years (PG)
IIAD Design Aptitude Test (iDAT)
21 Lakhs (UG), 9.7 Lakhs (PG)
Selection Process
iDAT and design simulation
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.
NIFT Campus, Plot No. 15, Sector 4, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai - 410210, India. Phone: +91 22 2774 7000
4 Years
Creative Ability Test (CAT) & GAT
NIFT Entrance Exam
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.
NIFT Campus, C.A. Site No. 21, Sector 1, 27th Main Road, HSR Layout, Bangalore - 560102, India. Phone: +91 80 2255 2550
Course Type & Duration
B. Des Fashion Design (4 Years)
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. Unlike traditional degree programmes that span several years, Istituto Marangoni offers a short yet intensive certification programme that is specifically focused on industry workflows, enabling students to adapt quickly to the rising demands of the fashion world.
While there's no specific entrance exam conducted by the institute, submitting valid scores from recognised tests is preferred.
Ceejay House, Level 6, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai - 400018, India. Phone: +91 22 6249 9999
48 weeks
8.5 Lakhs + 1 Lakh enrollment fee
Portfolio review and interview
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.
Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) S.No. 231/4A, Viman Nagar, Pune – 411014, Maharashtra, India. Phone: 020-26557210/203
B.Des (Fashion Design) 4 Years (UG), M.Des (Fashion Design) 2 Years (PG)
Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design (SEED)
18-19 Lakhs (UG), 7.5-8.5 Lakhs (PG)
SEED and portfolio review
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.
MIT Art, Design, and Technology University Rajbaugh, Loni Kalbhor, Solapur Highway, Near Bharat Petrol Pump, Loni Kalbhor Railway Station, Pune - 412201, Maharashtra, India. Phone: 020-26912901 / 02 / 03, 9595124234
B.Des (Fashion Design)B.Des (Fashion Design) 4 Years
Design Aptitude Test (DAT)
17 Lakhs (Indian), 25.5 Lakhs (International)
DAT and portfolio review
The fashion design courses at UID provide a well-rounded learning experience with modern infrastructure, advanced machinery, fully equipped workshops and cutting-edge labs. They empower students with technical skills, critical thinking, and design expertise and combine technical expertise with industry knowledge. The course covers fashion creation, styling, photography, media makeup, communication and entrepreneurship. Through capstone projects and specialised learning, students develop their unique identity, refine their expertise, and find their voice in fashion, ensuring a rich and integrated educational experience.
Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), NCR Campus, GD Goenka University Campus, Sohna-Gurugram Road Sohna, Haryana - 122102 Phone: +91 92666 63225
B.Des (Fashion & Styling) 4 Years (UG), M.Des (Fashion Design) 2 Years (PG)
24 Lakhs (UG), 11 Lakhs (PG)
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 instils 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.
ATLAS SkillTech University, Tower 1, Equinox Business Park, Off Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), LBS Marg, Kurla West, Mumbai - 400070, Maharashtra, India. Phone: +91 80975 20624
B. Des (4 Years)
ATLAS Aptitude Test (AAT)
25-26 Lakhs
AAT and portfolio review
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.
Pearl Academy, A-21/13, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase II, Naraina, New Delhi - 110028, India. Phone: +91 11 49807100
4 Years (UG), 2 Years (PG)
General Proficiency Test (GPT) & Design Aptitude Test (DAT)
29 Lakhs (UG), 11 Lakhs (PG)
GPT, DAT, and portfolio review
Here is a table outlining the different types of fashion designing courses available in India:
Course Type
Qualification Level
Key Focus Areas
Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
4 years
Undergraduate
Fashion design, garment construction, fashion illustration, pattern making
Master of Design (M.Des)
2 years
Postgraduate
Advanced design concepts, creative processes, and fashion innovation
Master of Fashion Management (MFM)
Fashion business, retail management, and fashion merchandising
Diploma in Fashion Design
1-2 years
Diploma
Basic design principles, pattern making, and fabric selection
Advanced Diploma in Fashion Design
2-3 years
Advanced Diploma
Advanced garment construction, textile studies, and design concepts
Certification in Fashion Design
6-12 months
Certificate
Short-term courses focusing on specific skills such as pattern making, fashion illustration, or textile design
Postgraduate Diploma in Fashion Design
Postgraduate Diploma
Specialised knowledge in fashion design, fashion forecasting, and production techniques
The cost of pursuing a fashion design course in India varies based on the type of program and the institution. However, on average, it is:
Diploma in Fashion Design - INR 9 - 10 lakh for the entire course
Bachelor of Design (B.Des) - INR 13 - 20 lakh for the entire course
Master of Design (M.Des) - INR 7.5 - 11 lakh for the entire course
Fashion design courses offer several specialisations, including:
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.
- Did you find this read helpful? Author Sukanya Bhattacharjee has written a comprehensive guide to choose the right fashion design college.
- If you want to look more closely at job opportunities in fashion designing, do read this piece.
- If you enjoy a good read on fashion and trends, then enjoy these reads: tribal textiles of Assam, Muga Silk and traditional attires of Rajasthan.
- Watch this space to know more about fashion design. Also, don’t miss watching this helpful webinar on career opportunities in fashion design.
An independent architect and writer based in Bombay, Sukanya started as a practicing architect but soon discovered the vast potential for multifaceted roles within the AEC industry. This led her to explore a series of possibilities – from design ... ing and curating to researching and writing. Witnessing her designs come to life, critical thinking, and writing gave her a perspective both as a designer and a writer. With two years of independent work, she’s had the privilege of collaborating with publication houses, architectural studios, firms, organizations, and educational institutions. She advocates for mental health and is often found doing spoken word poetry.
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