Know all about Fashion Designing Course in Kolkata: Admission 2025, Fees, Entrance Exam, Placements
Published by Shikha Kumari on Jun 16, 2025
Interested in the vibrant world of fashion and aspiring to make your mark in the industry? Kolkata, a city rich in culture and creativity, offers numerous opportunities to kickstart your career in fashion design. From understanding the admission process and fee structures to preparing for entrance exams and exploring placement prospects, this blog has got you covered to help you navigate your journey into the exciting realm of fashion.
Fashion Design Admission Process
For Fashion Design admission, candidates must go through multiple stages. First, they should meet the eligibility criteria, which include a minimum of Class 12 with an aggregate score of 50% from a recognised board. After that, prospective students must complete the application process by registering and applying either online or offline through the chosen college’s website or by visiting the campus. Candidates must also prepare their portfolio and be ready for a personal interview based on that portfolio. Based on performance in the entrance exam, merit list, portfolio, and/or interview, candidates are shortlisted for admission. Successful candidates may then be required to participate in a counselling session for seat allotment and document verification.
Step | Details |
Eligibility | Minimum 10+2 (Class 12) with at least 50% aggregate from a recognised board (varies by college/level). |
Application | Register and apply online/offline through the respective college’s website or in person. |
Exam/Assessment | Attend the entrance exam, portfolio review, and/or interview as specified by the college. |
Merit/Shortlist | Selection based on entrance exam/merit list, portfolio, and/or interview. |
Counselling | Participate in counselling/seat allotment/document verification (if applicable). |
Fee Payment | Pay the course fees to confirm admission |
Entrance Exams for Fashion Design Courses
Here is a table outlining some of the common entrance exams for Fashion Design courses in India. Keep in mind that specific acceptance criteria and dates can vary, so it’s always best to check the official websites of the respective conducting bodies and colleges.
Exam Name | Level | Accepted By (Sample) | Exam Date (2026) |
NIFT Entrance | UG/PG | NIFTs (including NIFT Kolkata) | Jan–Feb 2026 (Stage 1) |
NID DAT | UG/PG | NIDs, some private colleges | Jan 2026 |
UCEED | UG | IITs, some private colleges | Jan 2026 |
CEED | PG | IITs, some private colleges | Jan 2026 |
AIEED | UG/PG | ARCH Academy, some private colleges | Dec 2025–Apr 2026 |
CUET | UG/PG | Central/State Universities | May–June 2026 |
Top 10 Fashion Designing colleges in Kolkata with Fees
For Top Placements & Value for Money, NIFT Kolkata is the most reputed and cost-effective. On the other hand, IIFD and Raffles provide better grooming for global and high-end fashion careers but at a higher cost. Likewise, INIFD Salt Lake and George Telegraph are solid choices for diploma-level entry into local fashion retail or assistant roles. Finally, Amity and NSHM combine fashion education with a broader campus life and digital exposure
College Name | Course(s) | Fees (INR, Total) | Type |
NIFT Kolkata | B.Des, B.FTech | ~Rs 2.6 lakh (tuition, 4 yrs) | Government |
Indian Institute of Fashion & Design (IIFD) | B.Des, Diploma | Rs 7.6 lakh (B.Des, 4 yrs) | Private |
International Institute of Fashion Design | B.Des, Diploma | Rs 2–4 lakh (varies) | Private |
NSHM Knowledge Campus | B.Sc, Diploma | Rs 3–4 lakh | Private |
Amity University Kolkata | B.Des | Rs 5–6 lakh | Private |
JD Institute of Fashion Technology | Diploma | Rs 2–3 lakh | Private |
George Telegraph Institute | Diploma | Rs 30,000 – Rs 1 lakh | Private |
Raffles Design International | B.Des | Rs 6–8 lakh | Private |
Government Fashion Designing Courses in Kolkata Fees
Candidates should pursue NIFT if they can crack it, since it offers the best launchpad in the fashion world. MAKAUT is a smart second choice for those who want structure and affordability. Polytechnics are skill factories which is best for fast, low-cost training, but candidates shouldn’t expect elite placement paths.
Institute Name | Course(s) | Fees (INR, Total) |
NIFT Kolkata | B.Des, B.FTech | ~Rs 2.6 lakh (tuition, 4 yrs) |
MAKAUT (WBUT) | B.Sc, Diploma | Rs 1.5–2 lakh |
Govt. Polytechnic Colleges | Diploma | Rs 10,000 – Rs 50,000 |
Free Fashion Designing Course in Kolkata
Aspiring fashion designers in Kolkata looking for free courses have several avenues to explore. The Government Skill Development Schemes, such as PMKVY and WBSDM, offer short-term certificate courses that are usually free for eligible candidates who have passed at least the 10th grade. However, it’s important to note that these schemes often have limited seats. Certain NGOs and community centres in Kolkata may also provide free basic fashion design courses, although the specific offerings and eligibility criteria can vary. Candidates can follow the table to know more about the Free fashion designing course in Kolkata:
Provider/Institute | Type | Eligibility/Notes |
Government Skill Development Schemes (e.g., PMKVY, WBSDM) | Short-term Certificate | Usually 10th pass, limited seats, free for eligible candidates |
NGOs/Community Centres | Short-term | Varies; may offer free basic courses |
Online Platforms (SWAYAM, NIOS) | Online Certificate | Free/nominal fee, self-paced, not always industry-recognised |