CEED 2026 Merit List - Check State Wise, Category Wise Toppers and Rank List

CEED Merit List 2026

IIT Bombay will release the CEED 2026 results (final) in the first week of March 2026 and the CEED merit list 2026 will be released after that. It will be displayed in online mode. The scorecards are available for download till the second week of June 2026. The exam will be conducted in the second week of January 2026. The merit list will be issued keeping in mind the marks secured by candidates in the entrance exam. The CEED 2026 cutoff marks for Part A will be released in the first week of February 2026, on its official site, ceed.iitb.ac.in, in the form of mean and standard deviations. The mean and standard deviation for Part A (CEED 2026) can be expected at 45.48 and 16.98, respectively. If you have your name on the merit list, you will be invited to the CEED 2026 counselling process. The merit list of CEED 2026 is prepared based on the category provided by you in the CEED 2026 application form. It is your responsibility to furnish the correct category certificate while filling out the online registration form. Scroll down to learn more about the CEED 2026 merit list.

CEED Merit List 2026 Dates

Check out the important CEED merit list 2026 dates below:

How is CEED 2026 Merit List Prepared?

Let's break down how the CEED 2026 merit list is created, using information from the official CEED brochure:

• Normalization of Scores: The scores in Part A (Aptitude Test) undergo normalization through a statistical process. This ensures fair comparison across different difficulty levels. The normalized score is determined based on the mean and standard deviation of Part A scores within each category (Open, OBC-NCL/EWS, SC/ST, PwD).
• Selection for Part B: A specific percentage of candidates from each category, typically around 10% for the Open category, are chosen for Part B (Drawing Test) based on their normalized Part A score.
• Part B Evaluation: Shortlisted candidates participate in the Part B examination, assessing their drawing skills and creative potential through drawing tasks. A panel of experts evaluates Part B subjectively, considering factors like concept, composition, execution, and technical skills.
• Final Score and Ranking: The final CEED score for each candidate is calculated by combining their normalized Part A score with 75% weightage and Part B score with 25% weightage. Candidates are then ranked based on their final score within each category, starting with the highest scorer.
• Categorical Cutoff Marks: Distinct cutoff marks are established for each category based on the rank order within that category. These marks represent the minimum score needed for selection within each category.

Note: The merit list is an essential document for those who have qualified for CEED 2026. It is used to decide which candidates will be summoned for counselling in what sequence. Candidates who rank higher on the merit list have a better chance of getting into their desired institutes.

Also Read: CEED 2026 Counselling Process

Importance of CEED Merit List 2026 for Admission Process

The CEED merit list 2026 plays an important role in the admission process for esteemed Master of Design (MDes) programs in institutes like IITs, IISC, and other design schools. Its significance can be highlighted in these key points:

• Eligibility Filter: The merit list acts as the first screening step, excluding applicants who haven't achieved the minimum score required for consideration within their category.
• Rank-Based Selection: Candidates progressing to further stages of the admission process are selected based on their position on the merit list within their category. Higher ranks generally indicate better chances of securing admission.
• Primary Ranking Factor: Most institutes primarily use the CEED merit list rank to prioritize candidates. Higher ranks significantly enhance the likelihood of receiving an offer for the desired program.
• Combined Evaluation: Some institutes may combine the CEED rank with other factors like portfolio reviews, interviews, or additional entrance tests for a more comprehensive assessment. However, the CEED merit list usually carries substantial weight.
• Alternative Plans: If your rank is lower than expected, consider exploring alternative options such as applying to institutes with different admission criteria or contemplating a retake of the CEED exam in the next year.

What After Release of CEED Merit List 2026

 After the CEED merit list 2026 is released by IIT Bombay, candidates need to check if their names are mentioned on the same. Shortlisted aspirants are invited to the counselling process as well as the seat allotment process of CEED 2026. Through them, they are allotted a CEED 2026 participating institute based on their preference, category and exam performance. To accept a seat, candidates need to 'Freeze' their admission in the allotted institute. They can either choose to participate in the subsequent rounds or confirm their admission to the allotted institute.

Get ready for the exciting post-merit-list phase of your CEED journey with the following steps:

• Counselling & Seat Allotment:
  • Dates: Check the official counselling dates announced by the CEED conducting institute, usually IIT Bombay.
  • Process: Engage in online counselling rounds where you express preferences for MDes and PhD programs in participating institutes.
  • Seat Allocation: Your merit rank, category, and program choices determine your seat allocation. Aim high for your dream program!
• Document Verification & Reporting:
  • Prepare: Gather your academic transcripts, graduation certificates, and required documents for verification at your allotted institute.
  • Reporting: Act promptly! Report to the assigned institute within the given timeframe to confirm your seat and secure admission.
• Fees & Registration:
  • Dues: It's time to pay! Settle tuition fees and other charges as per the institute's guidelines.
  • Registration: Complete official registration formalities to officially become a student of your chosen design program.

Useful Resources:

• CEED Official Website: Stay updated with official announcements, counselling dates, and institute information.
• Institute Websites: Visit your preferred institutes' websites for specific admission guidelines and program details.
• Counselling Helpline: Don't hesitate to contact the official counselling helpline for any queries or clarifications.