How to Crack Interviews for Design Admissions in India

Sukriti Vajpayee

Updated On: March 20, 2024 11:15 am IST

The admission process for design colleges in India varies as per the institute or college. However, the basic admission process includes an interview and a portfolio round. So, check out this article to learn How to Crack Interviews for Design Admissions in India!

How to Crack Design Interviews

With the rapidly growing increase in the demand for design courses in India, the number of colleges offering design programmes has also increased. Every year, thousands of candidates apply for admission to the top colleges to pursue design and aspire to make a career in design. The admission process followed by these colleges varies at several levels. One of the most important things that someone interested in pursuing higher education in the field of design must know is the selection process of the desired colleges.

Most of the design colleges conduct an interview round to shortlist candidates for their programmes. At some colleges, the interview round comes after an entrance test while some institutes select candidates solely based on their performance in the interview. In any case, the interview round is a major criterion of selection at design colleges. In this article, we have provided you with all the necessary information that you need for cracking design interviews.

How to Crack Design Interviews: Interview Etiquettes

Cracking the design interview is the second step after qualifying for the design entrance exams. This interaction round is conducted by the design institutes to judge candidates' practical knowledge about the field and communication skills. Students are evaluated by a panel of interviewers who also discuss goals and candidates' portfolios. Check out these before and during interview etiquette tips for a smooth face-to-face interaction:

Before the Interview

Students must note that before the interview they have to abide by different guidelines which can be easily noted through the below-mentioned tips:
  • Be aware of the interview venue: You must know the venue of the interview and the other details regarding the process. If the venue is new to you, it is advisable to visit it sometime before the scheduled day of the interview to acquaint yourself with the place.
  • Check for a proper internet connection: If the interview is being held through a virtual mode, you must test your equipment and internet connection beforehand. Doing so can help you avoid any potential technical glitches or difficulties during the interview
  • Keep all the documents ready: Gather all the documents including the portfolio or forms that you may be asked to produce during the interview. Make sure you do not miss out on any certificate or document and prepare your file carefully.
  • Check your portfolio thoroughly: Go through your portfolio and make any last-minute changes if necessary.
  • Know about the interview process: Do proper homework and try to learn as much as you can about the interview process conducted by the college.
  • Rest well: Be well rested and get a good night's sleep a day before the interview. Do not skip any meals and take care of your diet.

During the Interview

Amidst the interview, students must be confident in their answers, and apart from confidence they must also refer to the tips mentioned below:
  • Be punctual: The first step towards making a good impression is being punctual. Reach your venue before the allotted time so that you are in no rush. Being punctual will fetch you enough time to be prepared for everything.
  • Dress appropriately as per the dress code: Make sure that you dress appropriately and follow the dress code if any. It is always the safest and best idea to opt for formal outfits while appearing for an interview. You must also ensure that the clothes you choose to wear are comfortable.
  • Maintain Etiquettes: Throughout the interview process, you must be on your best behaviour and extremely polite. Greet the interviewers when you enter the room.
  • Be polite while answering: Use proper phrases when asking them to repeat the questions. Make sure that your tone is not rude.
  • Slangs are a big ‘no': Do not use any informal language or slang during your interview. Resort to the proper, formal English language and refrain from using terms that are considered casual or unofficial.
  • Be confident: Keep your confidence up and do not become nervous or anxious for the interview. A confident person sets a positive tone for the interview and ensures that the whole process is smooth.
  • Mind your body language: Mind your actions and body language while giving the interview. Refrain from actions like fidgeting, touching your face, settling your hair, sitting inappropriately, being clumsy, talking too loudly, etc. Make eye contact while giving answers and use appropriate hand gestures at certain intervals.
  • Take your time to frame or think about the answer: When you are asked a question, pause for a few seconds to gather your thoughts and frame the sentence in your mind. Answering right away is not necessary. If you take a moment to process the question, you will definitely answer it in a better way. It will also show the interviewers that you are thoughtful and mindful of what you say.
  • Avoid giving conventional answers: Avoid giving conventional or cliched replies as much as possible. Try to bring something new to the table and be creative with your answers.
  • Do not bluff: If you do not know the answer to any question that has been asked, accept it and let the interviewers know. Making up answers to things you do not know about sets a negative image. Instead, you should admit that you are unaware of the subject and move on.

Also Read:

Features to be Considered Before Choosing a Design SchoolImportance of Portfolio for Admission in Design Courses

10 Tips to Crack Interviews for Design Admissions

Since design is one of the most creative fields, the interview rounds for this domain are conducted to judge the creative side of the potential candidates. Check out the 10 tips to crack interviews for design admissions in India:

  • Be there on time: If the interview is virtual then candidates must check for the timings and the internet connection. However, if it is offline, then make sure that you reach on time at the interview venue. 
  • Be prepared beforehand: Students must note that the interview will be conducted to analyse their personality, aptitude, knowledge, goals and skills so they are advised to be aware of the basics of the design concepts. 
  • Be polite: Interviewees should listen attentively first and then give their answers. They must also be polite while answering the questions. 
  • Answer after the entire question is asked: Candidates must answer the question after it is asked by the interviewer. They must avoid interrupting in between questions. 
  • Avoid using mobile phones or writing anything: They are suggested to not use any electronic gadgets and also avoid writing anything while in the interview.
  • Be ready with your portfolio: For a design interview, a portfolio plays an important role so students must keep the same ready beforehand. 
  • Look for design interview questions: It is highly suggested to refer to the design interview questions beforehand and prepare for the answers accordingly.

Top Colleges for Design Admission in India

To get into top colleges to pursue design courses candidates have to first qualify for the entrance exams and then for the second selection round which is mostly a personal interview round. So before that, they must be aware of the top design colleges mentioned below:

College Name

Location

Maeer's MIT Institute of Design (MITID)

Pune, Maharashtra

Indian Institute of Art & Design

Delhi, Delhi

Ellen School of Art And Design (ESAD)

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Koshys Animation & Media School (KAMS)

Bangalore, Karnataka

Istituto Marangoni (Marangoni Mumbai)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Whistling Woods International (WWI)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

International Institute of Fashion Design, West Delhi (INIFD)

New Delhi (Delhi)

Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences

Bangalore, Karnataka

Ajeenkya DY Patil University - ADYPU

Pune, Maharashtra

MIT Art, Design and Technology University

Pune, Maharashtra

All About Design Admissions in India

Go through the links given below to get a deeper understanding of Design admissions in India.

Top Specialisations in Design

How to Prepare for Design Entrance Exams

Top 10 Design Entrance Exams in India

Design Colleges in India Offering Lateral Entry Admissions

Top Design Colleges in North India

Top Design Colleges in East India

Top Design Colleges in West India

Top Design Colleges in South India

How to Pursue Design after Studying Science in 12th

Design Colleges Offering Admission on the Basis of Class 12th Marks

Following these tips while preparing for the interview round of any design institute will definitely give you an edge over other applicants. You will be able to ace the round with ease. You can fill our Common Application Form (CAF) or call on the toll-free student helpline number 1800-572-9877 in order to get help from our admission experts to find the best college for yourself. Through the QnA section, you can also send your doubts and queries to us.

Stay tuned to CollegeDekho to get more information on design admissions, courses, and colleges!

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FAQs

How do I prepare for a design interview?

Candidates can easily prepare for a design interview if they have a full understanding of the interview process and question pattern. Check below steps:

- Be aware of the interview process.

- Search and make your answers for the commonly asked questions. 

- Keep your portfolio ready.

Find more tips to prepare for the design interview above on this page.

What kind of questions are asked in a design interview?

Different types of questions are asked in a design interview such as the goals of the candidate after pursuing the specific design course or about the basics of design, elements of design and other related questions.

What should I wear to a design interview?

Candidates should abide by the dress code prescribed by the specific design colleges for the interview round. However, if there is no specified dress code, they are suggested to keep it simple and formal.

How long does a design interview take?

A design interview is generally conducted for 45-60 minutes. However, the duration of the interview is dependent on the design institute. Students are suggested to be aware of the timing and be on time for the interview round.

Is a portfolio important in a design interview?

A portfolio is important for the design interviews, however it is dependent on the design institute. If a design portfolio is mentioned in the interview details, then candidates must be ready with it.

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