Want to Crack CEED? Admission Insights & Preparation Strategy
The Common Entrance Exam for Design (CEED) is the gateway to some of the top design schools in India, including IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IISc Bangalore, and others. If you’re serious about pursuing a Master of Design (M.Des) or PhD in Design, then starting early with the right approach is essential. With CEED Admission 2025 on the horizon, now is the perfect time to plan your strategy.
In this blog, we’ll break down the CEED admission process, help you understand what it takes to prepare effectively, and share a practical study roadmap backed by expert tips.
What is CEED?
CEED is conducted by IIT Bombay for admission to M.Des and PhD programs in Design. It evaluates a candidate’s aptitude for design involving visual perception ability, drawing skills, logical reasoning, creativity, and communication.
The exam is conducted in two parts:
- Part A: Computer-based objective section (visual and logical aptitude)
- Part B: Drawing and design-based subjective section
Only those who qualify Part A are evaluated for Part B.
CEED Admission 2025: Key Details to Know
To crack CEED, understanding the admission process is as important as the preparation itself. Here’s a quick breakdown of what CEED Admission 2025 will look like:
| Aspect | Details |
| Exam Name | Common Entrance Exam for Design (CEED) |
| Conducting Body | IIT Bombay |
| Course Offered | M.Des and PhD in Design |
| CEED 2025 Application Starts | Likely in October 2024 |
| Exam Date (Expected) | January 2025 |
| Eligibility | Graduation in Design/Architecture/Engineering (4-year) |
| CEED Score Validity | 1 Year |
| Application Mode | Online |
Note: CEED scores are used only for shortlisting. Final admission depends on studio tests, interviews, and portfolio review at respective institutes.
Understanding the CEED Syllabus
A good understanding of the syllabus is critical to streamline your CEED exam preparation. Though there is no rigid syllabus, here’s what each part typically covers:
Part A – Computer-Based Test
- Visual & Spatial Ability
- Environmental & Social Awareness
- Analytical & Logical Reasoning
- Language and Creativity
- Design Awareness and Observation
Part B – Drawing-Based Test
- Drawing Skills (freehand sketching, perspective, line quality)
- Creativity and Problem Solving
- Design Concepts
- Storytelling through visuals
Your CEED study material should be curated to target both sections effectively.
Must-Have CEED Study Material
Choosing the right CEED study material is vital. It should be a blend of theory, design concept practice, and sketching drills. Here’s a quick reference table of resources you can rely on:
| Study Resource | Purpose | Recommended For |
| CEED Question Bank (Past Years) | Understand paper pattern and difficulty | All aspirants |
| NID/NIFT/CEED Combined Guides | Covers basics of design concepts, reasoning, awareness | Beginners |
| Design Drawing by Francis D.K. Ching | Learn perspective and visual composition | Drawing section |
| YouTube Channels (e.g. Rethinking UI) | Visual tutorials on storytelling and sketching | Visual learners |
| Mock Tests by CEED Coaching Institutes | Simulate real exam environment | Intermediate+ |
Should You Join CEED Coaching?
While many candidates opt for self-study, enrolling in a good CEED coaching program can offer a structured path and expert mentoring. Here’s how it helps:
- Personal Feedback: On sketches, concepts, and storytelling
- Regular Mock Tests: With expert evaluations
- Interview & Portfolio Prep: Crucial for final selection rounds
- Time Management Tips: For tackling both Part A and Part B effectively
Several reputable coaching centers like BRDS, Designex, and Silica offer online and offline classes. Choose based on your schedule, learning preference, and budget.
CEED Exam Preparation Strategy: Tips to Crack It
Here’s a smart, actionable preparation strategy to help you stay on track:
1. Start Early with Basics
Give yourself at least 5–6 months for prep. Begin with strengthening your sketching and concept visualization.
2. Master Part A Concepts First
Allocate 30–40% of your time to logic, reasoning, and GK. Use previous year papers to identify question patterns.
3. Practice Daily Drawing
Spend at least an hour sketching scenes, storytelling visuals, and perspective drawings. Make a daily prompt journal.
4. Solve Previous Year CEED Papers
Attempt at least 4–5 years of CEED sample papers under timed conditions. Review your mistakes and track improvement.
5. Build Your Portfolio Slowly
If applying to institutes that require portfolios (like IIT Bombay or IISc), start documenting personal projects and ideas.
6. Take Mock Interviews
Use coaching support or peer groups to simulate the final interview stage. Practice articulating your thought process.
Final Thoughts
Cracking CEED is not about memorizing—it’s about thinking like a designer. With the right balance of structured planning, creative exploration, and proper CEED study material, you can confidently walk into the exam hall.
Whether you’re self-studying or getting help from a CEED coaching program, the key is consistency. Don’t wait until the last moment to start. Begin now, keep refining your design sense, and stay updated with any official announcements related to CEED Admission 2025.
