Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED) 2026 will be conducted by IIT Bombay on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. UCEED exam is a gateway for admission to B.Des programs at premier institutes such as IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Roorkee, and IIITDM Jabalpur. Candidates must ensure all required documents are ready and follow the exam guidelines carefully for a smooth examination experience.
Table of Contents
UCEED 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date / Time |
| Start date for Online Registration | October 1, 2025, 01:00 PM |
| Last date for Online Registration with regular fee | November 5, 2025 |
| Last date for Online Registration with late fee | November 10, 2025, 05:00 PM |
| Start date for Admit Card download | January 2, 2026, 01:00 PM |
| Last date for rectification of discrepancies in Admit Card | January 8, 2026, 05:00 PM |
| Exam Date & Time | January 18, 2026 (Sunday), 09:00 AM – 12:00 Noon |
| Release of Draft Answer Key (Part A) | January 20, 2026 |
| Last date to submit comments on Draft Answer Key | January 22, 2026, 05:00 PM |
| Release of Final Answer Key (Part A) | January 28, 2026, 05:00 PM |
| Announcement of Cut-off Marks for Part A | February 5, 2026 |
| Declaration of Results | March 6, 2026 |
| Start date for Score Card download | March 10, 2026 |
| Last date for Score Card download | July 31, 2026 |
Mandatory Documents to Carry for UCEED 2026
Candidates must carry essential documents to their exam centre. Missing any of these may prevent entry.
UCEED 2026: Exam Timing & Reporting Instructions
Candidates must plan their travel and arrival to ensure a smooth verification process and avoid any last-minute stress. It is recommended to visit the exam center a day before, if possible, to familiarize yourself with the location.
Tip: Reach the exam center early to avoid last-minute delays and complete all verification formalities calmly.
UCEED 2026 Exam Pattern Overview
UCEED 2026 has two parts – a computer-based test and a drawing section. Candidates should familiarize themselves with the marking scheme, structure, and topics.
Topics Covered:
- Visualization and Spatial Ability
- Observation and Design Sensitivity
- Environmental and Social Awareness
- Analytical and Logical Reasoning
- Language and Creativity
- Design Thinking and Problem Solving
Check: UCEED 2026 Exam Pattern
Last-Minute Tips for UCEED 2026
With the exam just around the corner, following the right strategies can make a significant difference. Stay calm, confident, and focus on your strengths. Avoid cramming new topics at the last moment, and prioritize revising important areas you are already familiar with.
1. Time Management
Plan how much time to allocate per section. Mock tests are the best way to improve speed and accuracy.
2. Focused Revision
Revise strong topics and areas of confusion. Avoid learning new topics at the last minute. Key topics include:
3. Negative Marking Awareness
Tip: Avoid guessing answers in MSQ and MCQ sections to minimize penalties.
4. Health and Rest
- Ensure 7–8 hours of sleep the night before the exam.
- Eat a healthy breakfast on exam day.
- Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress.
UCEED 2026 Do’s and Don’ts
Do's
Do reach the exam centre early (at least 45–60 minutes before reporting time).
Do carry all mandatory documents – Admit Card, Valid ID, Photos.
Do bring your own stationery – pencils, eraser, sharpener, pen.
Do practice time management during the exam; attempt easy questions first.
Do read every question carefully UCEED has tricky design-based logic questions.
Do keep your drawings clean and clearly labelled in Part B.
Do revise basic design concepts like symmetry, perspective, proportions, and colour theory.
Do stay calm and focused design exams reward creativity, not panic.
Do attempt mock tests to get familiar with CBT + drawing format.
Do follow all exam-day instructions given by invigilators.
Dont's
Don’t carry prohibited items – mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, study materials.
Don’t rely on guesswork in MCQ/MSQ sections negative marking is strict.
Don’t use rulers, stencils, or geometry tools in Part B (allowed only freehand).
Don’t draw overly complicated sketches if you cannot finish them in time.
Don’t panic if one section feels tough UCEED scores are relative (rank-based).
Don’t skip practicing NAT questions they carry high marks and no negative marking.
Don’t leave the exam hall early even if allowed; recheck answers calmly.
Don’t ignore your health sleep well and eat light before the exam.
Conclusion
UCEED 2026 is a critical step for aspirants aiming for a career in design. Proper preparation, punctuality, and adherence to exam rules will maximize your chances of success. Keep all documents ready, revise wisely, and manage your time efficiently during the exam.
