Established 1893 in Kolkata, The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship is a government institution affiliated to Rabindra Bharati University and recognized by the UGC. With a legacy spanning over 130 years, the college offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs in four specializations. The campus supports creative learning with dedicated art studios, a specialized library, and digital labs. Each year, the college admits a select group of students through its own entrance process, supported by 30+ faculty members and a blend of guest and part-time lecturers.
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Highlights
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Courses & Fees
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Admission Process
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Scholarships
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Campus & Facilities
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Placements
- The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Notable Alumni
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Highlights
Founded in 1893 by Lt. Monmathanath Chakraborty, the college has evolved from a small art school to a recognized degree-granting institution. It operates as a government college, maintains affiliation with Rabindra Bharati University, and is recognized under Sections 2(f) and 12(b) of the UGC Act. The college enrolls a modest number of students annually, focusing on quality fine arts education. The flagship BFA program is offered at moderate fees, with admissions based on a written test and viva-voce. The college maintains an offline application process and is known for its experienced teaching staff and industry connections.
Particulars | Details |
Established | 1893 |
Type | Government |
Approvals/Accreditations | UGC (Sections 2f & 12b), Affiliated to Rabindra Bharati University |
Student Intake / Strength | Approx. 100–150 per year |
Faculty | 30+ (including 13+ guest, 4+ part-time, 4+ contractual) |
Flagship Program & Fees | BFA – INR 31,400 (total, approx.) |
Entrance Exams | Written Test + Viva-Voce (college-conducted) |
Official Website |
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Courses & Fees
The college offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree with four specializations: Painting, Applied Art, Sculpture, and Graphics. The BFA is a four-year, full-time program designed to develop both technical and creative skills. Eligibility requires completion of 10+2 with at least 50% marks. The total program fee is approximately INR 31,400 for the entire duration, making it accessible for aspiring artists. All admissions are merit-based, evaluated through college-conducted entrance tests and interviews.
Program | Level | Duration | Eligibility | Total Fees |
BFA (Painting, Applied Art, Sculpture, Graphics) | Undergraduate | 4 Years | 10+2 (min. 50%) | INR 31,400 (approx.) |
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Admission Process
Admissions to the BFA program are conducted annually, typically between May and July. Candidates must apply offline, submit required documents, and appear for a written and practical entrance test. Final selection is based on performance in a viva-voce. The process is designed to assess both creative aptitude and foundational knowledge in art. Applicants must bring their own materials for the entrance exam and submit self-attested documents at the time of interview.
Application Window: May–July (annually)
Entrance Exams (if any): Written Test + Practical + Viva-Voce (college-conducted)
Selection Stages (GD/PI/WAT/etc.): Viva-Voce (Personal Interview)
Step | Details | Indicative Timeline | Documents |
Application | Submit offline application with self-attested documents | May–June | 10+2 marksheet, ID proof, photos |
Entrance Test | Written and practical exam (bring own materials) | June | Admit card, drawing materials |
Viva-Voce | Personal interview for shortlisted candidates | June–July | All original documents |
Admission Confirmation | Fee payment and document verification | July | Fee receipt, admission letter |
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Scholarships
The college supports meritorious and economically disadvantaged students through government and university scholarships. Eligible students can apply for state and central schemes, such as merit-cum-means scholarships and minority scholarships. Selection is based on academic performance and financial need, with applications processed through the college or university portal.
Scholarship | Eligibility | Benefit | How to Apply |
State Government Merit Scholarship | Top academic performers, resident of West Bengal | Monthly stipend (INR 1,000–2,000 approx.) | Apply via college with marksheets |
Minority Scholarship | Belonging to minority community, family income below threshold | Fee waiver/financial aid | Apply through official government portal |
Central Govt. Scholarships (NSP) | As per scheme guidelines | Financial support as per scheme | Apply via National Scholarship Portal |
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Campus & Facilities
Located at 476, Dum Dum Cossipore Road, Kolkata, the campus is designed for creative exploration. Students benefit from well-lit studios, a comprehensive art library, and digital labs equipped with design software. The college also provides a seminar hall for exhibitions and guest lectures, fostering a vibrant artistic community. Hostel accommodation is available for outstation students, and the campus is accessible by public transport.
Library / Digital Resources: Art library with visual/design books, digital labs with design software
Labs / Research Centres / Special Equipment: Drawing studios, sculpture and graphics labs
Classrooms / Seminar Halls / Auditoriums: Seminar hall for exhibitions, talks, and workshops
Hostel / Dining: Hostel facility for students, canteen/dining area
Sports / Gym / Grounds: Basic sports facilities
Connectivity / Transport: Well-connected by city transport, accessible location
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Placements
The college has a modest placement record, with graduates finding opportunities in creative industries, design firms, and media houses. Notable recruiters include Cognizant, TCS, Rocksalt, and Symbiosys Technologies. While placement statistics are not formally published, many alumni pursue successful careers as independent artists, designers, or educators. Campus placement support is available for interested students.
Year | Highest Package | Average Package | Median Package | Top Recruiters |
2024 | INR 4–5 LPA (approx.) | INR 2–3 LPA (approx.) | INR 2 LPA (approx.) | Cognizant, TCS, Rocksalt, Symbiosys Technologies |
The Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship Notable Alumni
Over its long history, the college has produced several prominent artists, designers, and educators who have contributed significantly to the Indian art and design landscape. Alumni are recognized for their work in painting, sculpture, and applied arts, with many exhibiting nationally and internationally.
Name | Role / Achievement |
Manmathanath Chakraborty | Founder, Pioneer in Indian Art Education |


