As we move into 2026, design education has evolved far beyond aesthetics and artistic skills. Today, design is about understanding people, identifying real-world problems, and creating meaningful solutions. With creative industries expanding rapidly, students are increasingly seeking education that prepares them for dynamic careers. The All India Entrance Examination for Design-Scholarship Aptitude Test (AIEED-SAT) 2026 is the gateway to ARCH College of Design & Business and is designed to identify creative thinking and problem-solving abilities rather than academic scores alone.
What is AIEED-SAT 2026?
AIEED, conducted by ARCH College of Design & Business, is a national-level design aptitude assessment that evaluates how students think, observe, analyse, and express ideas. Unlike traditional entrance exams that focus on marks or drawing ability, AIEED follows an experiential and thinking-led approach. ARCH was the first institution in India to launch an online entrance examination for design education, setting a benchmark with AIEED. The AIEED poster was notably launched in 2010 with renowned designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, marking a significant moment in the evolution of design admissions in India. Designed to recognise creative potential and individual perspective, AIEED continues to remain relevant for students from diverse academic backgrounds.
Eligibility Criteria for AIEED-SAT 2026
Students who are appearing for or have completed Class 12 in any stream are eligible to apply for AIEED-SAT 2026. Since creative competencies are relevant across all professional disciplines, there are no subject-specific requirements. This allows students from science, commerce, and humanities backgrounds to explore design as a future-ready career option without limitations.
AIEED-SAT 2026 Important Dates
Registrations for the AIEED-SAT close on 31 December 2025. The assessment for AIEED-SAT 2026 can be taken online, at school, or from home, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for students across India. Early registration is recommended, especially for students aiming to secure scholarship opportunities and preferred assessment modes.
AIEED-SAT Format and Duration
The AIEED Scholarship Aptitude Test is a 35-minute assessment designed to evaluate thinking rather than performance under pressure. There is no marks-based ranking system and no requirement for drawing skills. Instead, students are assessed through observation-based tasks that encourage originality, curiosity, and problem identification. This format reduces exam stress while allowing students to express their ideas freely.
AIEED-SAT 2026 Syllabus and Assessment Framework
Rather than following a fixed syllabus, AIEED-SAT 2026 is based on a design thinking framework that includes Discover, Define, and Understand. Students begin by observing real-life situations, move on to identifying insights or challenges, and finally reflect on their understanding through expression. This approach mirrors real-world design processes and focuses on creativity, empathy, and contextual awareness.
Task Flow and Submission Format
During the 35-minute assessment, students progress through a structured task flow that mirrors real-world design processes. Students are required to observe their surroundings, identify challenges, and reflect on their understanding through expression.
Submissions can be made in either of the following formats:
- Written response: 200–250 words
- Video narration: 2–3 minutes
The flexible submission format ensures students can communicate ideas in a way that feels natural to them.
Scholarships Through AIEED-SAT 2026
One of the major advantages of appearing for AIEED-SAT 2026 is the opportunity to earn a 100% scholarship. The assessment recognises thinking potential rather than perfection, offering deserving students national-level recognition and financial support. Over 7,500 students across India have already experienced design thinking through AIEED, making it a trusted and impactful initiative.
Career Paths After AIEED and ARCH
Qualifying through AIEED opens pathways to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at ARCH College of Design & Business. Graduates build careers across fashion, jewellery, interior, product, visual communication, and digital design, as well as entrepreneurship and innovation-driven roles. Beyond career outcomes, students develop essential 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, empathy, and creative confidence.
Why Choose ARCH College of Design & Business?
With over 25 years of excellence in design education, ARCH College of Design & Business offers an industry-integrated curriculum, global exposure, and a strong alumni network. ARCH focuses on nurturing responsible designers who are industry-ready and capable of making meaningful contributions to society through thoughtful design.
Apply for AIEED-SAT 2026
If you are ready to explore a design education that values how you think and create, AIEED-SAT 2026 is your first step. Registrations are open until 31 December 2025, inviting students across India to discover their creative confidence and design their future with ARCH College of Design & Business.