Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), New Delhi – Complete Guide to Scholarships (3000 Words)

Introduction

The Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), based in New Delhi, is one of India’s most prestigious design schools. Known for its partnership with Kingston School of Art, London, IIAD offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Fashion Design, Communication Design, Interior Architecture & Design, and Fashion Business Management. To encourage talented students from diverse backgrounds, IIAD provides a range of scholarships to help them achieve their dreams without being burdened by financial constraints.

This guide will provide everything you need to know about IIAD’s scholarship programs, including eligibility criteria, types of scholarships available, the application process, key deadlines, and expert tips on improving your chances of receiving financial aid.

Why IIAD Scholarships Matter

Design education in India and abroad can be financially intensive due to materials, workshops, software, industry visits, and tuition. IIAD’s scholarships are aimed at making quality design education more accessible while nurturing creativity, talent, and innovation. These scholarships also reflect the institute's values of inclusivity, diversity, and merit-based opportunity.

Key Objectives of IIAD Scholarships:

• Support meritorious students with limited financial means

• Recognize exceptional creative potential

• Encourage academic excellence

• Promote inclusive and diverse classroom environments

Overview of Scholarships at IIAD

IIAD offers scholarships that generally fall into two categories:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

These are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding performance in:

• IIAD Entrance Exam (iDAT/iMAT)

• Portfolio/Interview round

• Academic achievements (Class 10, 12, or Graduation)

2. Need-Based Financial Aid

Offered to students from economically weaker backgrounds or who have experienced financial hardship. These require additional documentation and verification.

In both cases, scholarships are provided in the form of tuition fee waivers which can range from 10% to 50% or more depending on the applicant’s merit and situation.

Who Can Apply for IIAD Scholarships?

Undergraduate Program Applicants:

• Candidates applying for admission in Fashion Design, Communication Design, Interior Architecture, or Fashion Business Management.

• Must have qualified in the IIAD entrance exam (iDAT/iMAT) and completed the personal interview or portfolio round.

• A minimum score of 60% or above in the entrance test enhances chances for a scholarship.

Postgraduate Program Applicants:

• Students applying for Master’s in Fashion Design or Fashion Business Management.

• Must possess a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

• Performance in iMAT and interview is the primary basis.

International Applicants:

• International students are also eligible to apply for scholarships, evaluated based on academic transcripts and creative portfolios.

Types of Scholarships Offered at IIAD

1. Performance-Based Scholarships

Awarded to candidates scoring in the top 10 percentile of the entrance test or displaying exceptional talent during the portfolio or interview round.

Criteria:

• iDAT/iMAT score (70%+ typically)

• Creative or business acumen in portfolio/interview

• Academic records

Coverage:

• 25% to 50% tuition fee waiver

2. Early Application Scholarships

Given to students who apply in early admission rounds (typically