Ritik Kumar · August 1, 2025 
Top M.Des Colleges Through CUET 2026 are emerging as a unified and streamlined option for design aspirants across India. With the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-PG) gaining popularity, students no longer need to juggle multiple entrance exams for different universities. The COQP04 paper under CUET now serves as the gateway to many reputed central, state, and private institutions offering Master of Design programs.
In this complete guide, we cover:
A curated list of Top M.Des Colleges Through CUET 2026
Details about the CUET Design Paper (COQP04)
Tips to ace your portfolio round and interviews
Answers to frequently asked questions
Whether you’re targeting DU, BHU, IGDTUW, or other major design colleges, this resource will help you map your path to M.Des success.
Table of Contents
Why CUET-PG Is a Game-Changer for M.Des Aspirants?
Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CUET-PG has standardized the admission process for PG courses across more than 200 universities.
Here’s why M.Des aspirants should seriously consider CUET-PG:
✅ One Exam, Many Choices
No need to apply for multiple entrance tests. CUET-PG opens doors to several universities through a single exam.
✅ Uniform Syllabus
Design aspirants must attempt the COQP04 paper. It offers a well-defined and predictable syllabus — making preparation more focused.
✅ Equal Opportunity
Students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities can now compete with peers nationwide on a level playing field.
List of Top M.Des Colleges Accepting CUET-PG (2026 Admission Expected)
💡 Note: The list is based on previous years’ trends. You must verify details on university portals and the CUET-PG 2026 information bulletin (to be released by NTA).
| University Name | Location | M.Des Specializations | Notable Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi, UP | M.Des (General) | Reputed central university with excellent facilities |
| University of Delhi (DU) | Delhi | MFA in Applied Art | College of Art likely to use CUET-PG scores |
| Central University of Haryana | Mahendragarh, HR | M.Des (Industrial Design) | Focus on design + tech |
| Central University of Jharkhand | Ranchi, JH | MA in Art & Culture | Related creative course, not pure M.Des |
| IGDTUW | Delhi | M.Des (Industrial Design) | Premier institute for women |
| AKTU | Lucknow, UP | M.Des (various streams) | Covers colleges affiliated in UP |
| Galgotias University | Greater Noida, UP | M.Des (Fashion, Interior, Communication) | Private university with industry tie-ups |
| Bennett University | Greater Noida, UP | M.Des (Custom Streams) | Modern curriculum and corporate exposure |
| Manav Rachna International Institute | Faridabad, HR | M.Des (General & Tech-focused) | Deemed-to-be university with design focus |
CUET-PG M.Des 2026 Admission Process – Step-by-Step
Even though the 2025 counselling is already closing, students targeting CUET-PG 2026 should start preparing from now.
1. Check Eligibility Criteria
Most universities require a Bachelor’s degree in Design, Architecture, Engineering, Fine Arts, or any related field with 50–55% marks. Always verify on the official portal.
2. Register for CUET-PG 2026 (Expected: Jan–Feb 2026)
Fill out the application form on the official website: cuet.nta.nic.in.
Choose the correct paper code: COQP04 for M.Des.
3. Appear for CUET-PG 2026 (Likely in March 2026)
Prepare to answer questions based on:
- Design theory & fundamentals
- Logical & analytical reasoning
- General awareness in design/art
- History of Art & Design movements
4. Result Declaration (Expected: May 2026)
Your CUET-PG 2026 scorecard will determine eligibility for university-level counselling.
5. Apply for University-Specific Counselling (May–July 2026)
After results:
- Visit the official admission portal of each participating university
- Fill out the counselling forms individually
- Participate in seat allotment rounds
6. Portfolio & Interview Rounds (Selective Universities)
Many design colleges conduct a second stage post-CUET, which includes:
- Portfolio Review (your original creative work)
- Personal Interview (to assess aptitude and passion)
7. Final Admission List & Fee Payment (June–Aug 2026)
Selected candidates must confirm admission and pay the fee before the university deadlines.
CUET-PG (COQP04) – Syllabus Highlights for M.Des
M.Des Entrance Exam – Key Topics to Focus
| Section | Topics to Focus |
|---|---|
| Design Fundamentals | Elements & principles of design, color theory, typography |
| Logical Reasoning | Pattern recognition, visual puzzles, analogy |
| Art & Design History | Indian art forms, global art movements, key designers |
| General Awareness | Latest trends in design, fashion, UX/UI, architecture |
| Creative Aptitude | Imaginative thinking, idea visualization (subjective) |
What About NID or NIFT?
No, NID (National Institute of Design) and NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Technology) do NOT accept CUET-PG scores. They conduct their own entrance exams:
- NID → Design Aptitude Test (DAT)
- NIFT → NIFT Entrance Exam (GAT + CAT + Interview)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I apply for M.Des through CUET if I have a B.Tech or B.Arch?
Yes. Most universities accept applicants with a B.Tech, B.Arch, BFA, or equivalent in a creative or technical stream.
Q2. Is the CUET-PG score alone enough?
No. While CUET-PG is the first step, most reputed universities also require a strong portfolio and an interview.
Q3. How many universities can I apply to with CUET-PG 2026?
There’s no official limit. However, you must select university options while registering, and apply separately for each university’s counselling later.
Q4. What’s a good score for M.Des CUET-PG?
Aim to be in the top 15–20 percentile to get shortlisted for second-stage rounds like interviews.
Q5. When should I start preparing?
Start now in August 2025 if you’re targeting CUET 2026. This gives you ample time to prepare for both the exam and build a strong design portfolio.
Still Confused? Contact Career Plan B
Feeling lost about your M.Des journey or unsure about CUET-PG? Career Plan B is your expert support system — whether you’re preparing for CUET-PG 2026 or exploring alternative design careers.
🔍 Complete CUET-PG Support
From choosing the right universities and paper code (COQP04) to portfolio review and counselling registration — we guide you at every step of the CUET-PG process.
🎯 One-on-One Counselling with Expert Mentors
📊 In-Depth Analysis of Your Interests & Aptitude
🎓 Guidance on Top Private Design Colleges
🌍 Study Abroad & Certification Alternatives
No matter where you stand today, we’ll help you design your future — strategically and confidently.
👉 Book Your First FREE Counselling Session Now!
Let’s find your best-fit design career together.
Final Words
The CUET-PG 2026 exam will be a golden opportunity to access India’s best M.Des programs. But remember, success in design isn’t just about exam scores. It’s about creativity, consistency, and clarity in your vision.
Start your portfolio development, research top universities, and track the official CUET-NTA website for real-time updates.
🎯 Your design journey begins with a single sketch—and a well-filled application form!
