Our five-pronged approach focuses on your individual strengths to develop your unique qualities towards making you an exemplary pi- designer.
Himanshi Chopra
04/11/2024
share
Overview
If you are an aspiring fashion design student, this guide outlines the top design institutions in Delhi: NIFT, IIAD, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Pearl Academy, and Amity School of Fashion Technology.
The overview includes details such as establishment year, campus features, course offerings, admission processes, placement opportunities, and average salary packages. It highlights what makes each institute unique, Delhi's role in fashion education, and insights into the fashion industry.
By comparing factors like industry connections, international exposure, and career prospects, this article is a valuable resource for students aiming for a successful career in fashion design. (click here to know more about top 10 Fashion design colleges in India in 2025.)
Table of contents
The journey into fashion design begins with an important decision: picking the right design college. With so much information available, aspiring designers can feel overwhelmed by the options. This guide was created to help simplify that decision.
A must-read for those looking to find their perfect fit in fashion design education.
Aspiring design professionals can explore various institutes to choose the one that best aligns with their creative aspirations. For a successful journey in the fashion industry, consider these esteemed design schools in Delhi:
It stands as a pioneer in fashion education, consistently ranking among the world's top 10 fashion institutes. Since its establishment in 1986, it has been the launching pad for some of India's most celebrated designers.
Established: 1986
Location: Hauz Khas, South Delhi
Notable Alumni: Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Rohit Bal, Prabal Gurung and others
Key Factors
Details
Location & Campus
3.5-acre campus in Hauz Khas, South Delhi
Recognition
Ministry of Textiles
Course Fee Range
Rs 1.00 - 5.09 lakhs per annum
Placements
95% placement rate with average package of Rs 4.5-12 lakhs
Entrance Exam
Written test, situation test, interview
The institute provides a wide array of programmes tailored to industry needs, ensuring great opportunities for aspiring fashion designers.
Programmes
Duration
Annual Fee (Per Annum)
B.Des in Fashion Design
4 Years
₹12.34 lakhs
M.Des in Fashion Design
2 Years
₹ 5.90 lakhs
Certificate Programmes
Varies
₹ 64.9K-1.9 lakhs
Step 1: Online applications open: The first week of December
Step 2: Written exam Creativity Analysis Test (CAT) and General Ability Test Dates: First week of February 2025
Step 3: Situation test/Personal interview for shortlisted candidates
Step 4: Final merit list based on combined performance
The institute’s strong industry connections present excellent employment opportunities for their design graduates. Luxury firms like Louis Vuitton and Armani, fast fashion giants like H&M and Zara, and prominent Indian labels like Sabyasachi and Raw Mango are among the top recruiters.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of design education, IIAD has emerged as a beacon of innovation and contemporary learning. Students have the golden opportunity to work on practical briefs from fashion houses such as FabIndia, H&M, and Uniqlo, gaining practical experience in concept development, budget management, and client presentations.
The BA (Hons) Fashion Design programme is built on a unique dual internship structure: an 8-week placement focused on craft-to-market transformation, followed by a complete 16-week industry exposure with top fashion companies such as Levi's, Pero, and Tarun Tahiliani. These internships offer hands-on exposure across the design spectrum, from concept creation and sampling to merchandising.
Learn more about the fashion design course at Indian Institute of Art and Design.
1.9-acre campus in Okhla, South Delhi
Kingston School of Art, London
Course Fee
Rs 5.5 lakhs per annum
Placements salary range
Rs 7.5-12 lakhs
IIAD design aptitude test (iDAT) and design simulation
The academic framework at IIAD is carefully structured to nurture both creative expression and technical expertise. The undergraduate fashion design course is designed in consultation with industry experts and international academic partners, ensuring relevance and global standards.
BA (Hons) Fashion Design
₹5.5 lakhs
This comprehensive admission process is designed to identify not just talent but also passion and potential in aspiring designers. The multi-stage selection ensures a holistic evaluation of candidates. The admission process to one of the most coveted design programme in Delhi is as follows:
Step 1: Fill in the application form
Step 2: Download the admit card one day prior to the exam
Step 3: Appear in IIAD design aptitude test (iDAT)
Step 4: Attend a studio simulation round post theory test
Step 5: Check IIAD Entrance Exam Result
The design students at this college have the opportunity to pursue fashion design careers with distinguished brands such as 11:11, Antaragni, Crea India, Shweta Kapur’s 431-88, Hemant and Nandita, Femella Fashion, and Urvashi Kaur.
Read more about the career and placement opportunities at the Indian Institute of Art and Design.
Since its inception in 1988, the institute has evolved to become a hub for experimental design thinking and practical industry training.
Established: 1988 Location: South Extension, New Delhi Industry Recognition: Member of IFTC (International Fashion Technology Council) Notable Alumni: Designers like Gaurav Chaudhary and Dhruv Vaish
South Extension, New Delhi
Partnerships
Lakme Fashion Week, Amazon Fashion Week
The extensive range of design programmes offered at this institute are created to achieve design excellence. The following programmes are available for prospective students:
Bachelors in Fashion Design
3 Years
₹1.75 Lakhs
₹2.17 Lakhs
PG in Fashion Design
₹2.11 Lakhs
Advanced Diploma
Step 1: Register online with relevant details Step 2: Complete the application form and pay the application fee Step 3: Receive GAT Admit Card Step 4: Take the GAT on the scheduled date
Several well-known fashion and design companies employ JDIFT Delhi alumni, including H&M, Zara, Pantaloons, Rocky S, Urvashi Kaur, Shane Peacock, Maheka Mirpuri and Shane Peacock.
Their legacy spans over three decades; the academy has consistently evolved to meet the changing demands of the fashion industry.
Naraina, West Delhi
NAAC A++ Grade
Rs 3.25 - 4.75 lakhs per annum
Tommy Hilfiger, Marks & Spencer
Pearl Academy Creative Ability Test (PCAT), Portfolio Assessment, Interview
The Academy's academic offerings reflect its commitment to excellence in fashion education as its design courses equip graduates with the essential skill set to drive growth, innovation, and social development.
Programme
Annual Fee
B.Des Fashion Design
₹4.25 lakhs
M.Des Fashion Design
₹4.75 lakhs
Professional Diploma
1 Year
₹3.25 lakhs
The academy highlights its success with average packages of ₹5-9 LPA and partnerships with global brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Marks & Spencer. Additionally, the faculty exchanges, international study tours, and hands-on projects further enhance the learning experience.
As part of the larger Amity University ecosystem, the School of Fashion Technology brings together academic excellence and industry integration. The institution stands out for its research-driven approach to fashion education and its emphasis on sustainable design practices.
Sector 125, Noida
UGC-accredited
Rs 2.8 - 9.1 lakhs per annum
FDCI, Apparel Export Promotion Council
Creative Test, Personal Interview
Their curriculum has been designed to foster innovation while maintaining strong industrial relevance.
₹9.1 lakhs
₹2.8 lakhs
The institution's placement record showcases an impressive average package of ₹4-9 LPA, with leading recruiters including Van Heusen, Allen Solly, and Tommy Hilfiger. Beyond domestic opportunities, the university distinguishes itself through international placement programmes, preparing graduates for global fashion markets.
This comprehensive comparison offers prospective students a detailed analysis of key factors that influence their educational journey and career prospects.
Factors
NIFT
IIAD
Pearl
JD
ASFT
Average Package (LPA)
8-12 Lakhs
7.5-12 Lakhs
5-9 Lakhs
4-7 Lakhs
4-9 Lakhs
Industry Connect
Excellent
Good
International Exposure
High
Moderate
Research Focus
Very High
Consider these essential elements in choosing the perfect design institute.
Have questions about how IIAD is different from other design colleges? Get in contact with IIAD admissions team.
It offers world-class educational opportunities that can transform creative passion into a thriving profession. As one walks through Delhi's fashion landscape, they effortlessly transition from the traditional textile markets of Chandni Chowk to the upscale boutiques of Mehrauli. This dynamic environment provides endless inspiration and practical learning opportunities for budding designers.
Morning lectures on a picturesque campus, afternoon internships at leading design houses, and evenings spent absorbing inspiration from fashion treasures across the city. What better way to dive into the world of texture, colour and fabric?
Selecting the best fashion design college requires balancing multiple factors, from academic quality to financial feasibility. While the best design colleges in Delhi set high standards, remember that the right choice depends on one’s career goals, learning style, and circumstances. Take time to research thoroughly, visit campuses when possible, and connect with current students or alumni before making this crucial decision.
- Did this guide spark your interest in fashion design? Dive deeper into understanding the requirements of a fashion design portfolio.
- Want to read more about what you learn in a fashion design course?
- What do the best fashion design colleges have in common? Read our guide to find more.
- Wondering what fashion design jobs you can go for with a fashion design degree? Check out our expert tips here.
About The Author
Words have always been my compass, guiding me across continents and industries. For the past three years, I’ve been crafting narratives that bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and human experience, from the immersive worlds of AR ... /VR to the dynamic realms of fashion and education. My journey as a content writer has taken me from the bustling tech hubs of India to the publishing houses of the UK and the innovative digital spaces of Canada. Along the way, I’ve developed a knack for turning complex ideas into compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide. My mission? To create content that doesn’t just inform but transforms—helping readers see the extraordinary in the everyday and the simple truths in complex innovations.
Stories
What is Interior Architecture & Design?
Did you know that we spend about 90% of our time indoors! We use the built environment, especially interior spaces,…
Learning About the Business of Fashion
The moment one hears the word fashion, one immediately visualises, beautiful clothes, bags, accessories, interesting prints, embroidery and colours, glamour,…
Photography for Beginners: The Bigger Picture of Taking a Picture
The digital age has allowed photography to boom like never before. It’s a massive, commercial industry which is growing explosively…
Design Thinking: Making D-School the New B-School
One of the most exciting aspects of my job is interacting with design aspirants. I love their enthusiasm and their…
Why Good Design is Good Business
Thomas Watson Junior. This quote is often attributed to Thomas Watson Jr., the son of Thomas Watson, the founder of…
enquiry form