Planning to pursue Architecture in Kerala? With 21 Architecture colleges offering B.Arch, B.Plan, M.Arch, and M.Plan, choosing the right college depends on key factors such as rankings, fees, placements, and entrance exams accepted.
Kerala's Architecture landscape includes top government institutes like APJAKSA and Seed, along with leading private universities such as Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, and Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad. Admissions are conducted through exams like NATA, depending on the course and institution.
This page provides a complete list of Architecture colleges in Kerala 2026, helping you compare colleges based on fees, placements, courses, and admission criteria to shortlist the best options.
Overview of Architecture Colleges in Kerala
Kerala has a diverse mix of architecture colleges across government, private, and deemed categories, offering programs in core and emerging fields. These colleges vary in terms of fee structure, admission process, and placement outcomes, making comparison essential for informed decision-making.
Admissions to most top colleges are based on national-level exams like NATA, while state and private colleges accept CETs and institute-level entrance exams.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Data |
| Total Architecture Colleges in Kerala | 21 |
| Government Colleges | 11 |
| Private Colleges | 10 |
| Popular Courses | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.), Diploma in Architecture, Master of Planning in Housing, Master of Planning (M.Plan) (Urban Planning) |
| Top Exams Accepted | NATA |
| Average Fees | ₹15.5 K - ₹11.6 L |
| Average Placement (sample) | ₹12 L - ₹13.4 L |
| Top Recruiters | ACCENTURE, Microsoft, Oracle, ADP |
Top Architecture Colleges in Kerala 2026 (Rankings)
Architecture college rankings are based on parameters such as academic reputation, faculty quality, research output, placements, and infrastructure. Rankings from sources like NIRF, India Today, and The Week are widely used by students to shortlist top colleges.
Government vs Private Architecture Colleges in Kerala
Architecture colleges in Kerala are broadly divided into government and private institutions, with key differences in fees, placements, admission process, and ROI. Government colleges are generally more competitive with lower fees, while private colleges offer higher seat availability and modern infrastructure.
Top Government Architecture Colleges
Government institutes such as APJAKSA and Seed are known for high ROI, strong placements, and national-level competition.
| College | Total Courses | Popular Course |
| APJAKSA | 1 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Seed | 1 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
Top Private Architecture Colleges
Top private colleges offer higher seat intake, industry-focused curriculum, and strong infrastructure.
| College | Fees | Total Courses | Popular Course |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | 2 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L | 3 | Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | 2 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode) | — | 1 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | — | 1 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| NCA | — | 1 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
Fee Comparison (Govt vs Private)
| Private Colleges | |
| B.Arch | ₹2.8 L - ₹5.6 L |
Government colleges are significantly more affordable compared to private institutions.
ROI Analysis
ROI is a key factor for most candidates, calculated based on fees vs placement outcomes.
| College | Fees | Popular Course |
| APJAKSA | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Seed | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L | Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode) | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| NCA | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
Government colleges offer higher ROI due to lower fees and strong placements, while private colleges provide better infrastructure, flexibility, and more seat availability.
From a decision-making perspective, candidates targeting top ranks and ROI should prioritise government colleges, while those looking for backup options and infrastructure can consider top private architecture institutes.
Govt and Private
| College | Fees | Popular Course |
| APJAKSA | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Seed | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L | Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode) | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
| NCA | — | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
Top Architecture Colleges in Kerala by Fees
Fees is a key parameter while shortlisting architecture colleges, as it directly impacts the overall cost of education and return on investment (ROI). In Kerala, architecture college fees vary significantly based on the type of institution—government colleges are more affordable, while private universities have higher fee structures due to infrastructure and facilities.
Mid-Range Architecture Colleges (₹1 L - ₹10 L)
Mid-range colleges include Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, and Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad, offering a balance between fees, academic quality, and placement outcomes.
| College Type | Fees | Popular Course | Total Courses |
| Private | ₹5.6 L | Architecture | ~2 avg courses (1 colleges) |
| Private Institute | ₹2.8 L - ₹5.6 L | Architecture | ~2 avg courses (2 colleges) |
These institutes provide strong ROI, with moderate fees and competitive placement packages, making them a preferred choice for many aspirants.
Best ROI Architecture Colleges in Kerala
Return on Investment (ROI) is a key factor while selecting architecture colleges, as it compares the total cost of education with placement outcomes. Colleges with lower fees and higher salary packages offer better long-term value.
ROI Comparison Across Top Colleges
| College | Average Fees |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L |
Government institutes such as APJAKSA and Seed consistently offer high ROI due to subsidised fees and strong placement records.
Popular Architecture Courses in Kerala
Architecture colleges in Kerala offer a wide range of specialisations, with demand driven by placement trends, industry requirements, and long-term career growth. Among these, certain branches consistently attract higher enrolment due to better salary outcomes and job opportunities.
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
- Average Salary (Top Colleges): ₹2.8 L - ₹7.5 L
- Top Recruiters: Cognizant, Infosys, HCL, JLL
| Course | Duration | Fees | Colleges | Mode | Level |
| Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) | 4–5 Years | ₹1.3 L - ₹41.4 L | 57+ | Full-time | UG/PG |
M.Arch. (Urban Design)
- Average Salary (Top Colleges): ₹2.8 L
- Top Recruiters: Cognizant, Infosys, JLL, Abhikalpan Architects & Planners
| Course | Duration | Fees | Colleges | Mode | Level |
| M.Arch. (Urban Design) | 2 Years | ₹75 K - ₹4 L | 9+ | Full-time | UG/PG |
M.Arch
- Top Recruiters: Amazon, HCL, Accenture, Axis Bank
| Course | Duration | Fees | Colleges | Mode | Level |
| M.Arch | 2 Years | ₹50 K - ₹16.3 L | 8+ | Full-time | UG/PG |
Architecture Admission Process in Kerala 2026
Admission to architecture colleges in Kerala follows a structured process based on entrance exams, result evaluation, and centralised or institute-level counselling. Candidates can apply through national, state, or college-level exams, depending on their target institutions and courses.
National Level Entrance Exams
National-level exams are the primary gateway to top government architecture colleges such as Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, and CAT Kerala. These exams have high competition and wider acceptance across India.
Key National Architecture Exams
| Exam | Full Form | Conducting Body | Duration (Minutes) | Application Mode | Exam Mode | Level | Colleges Participating |
| NATA | National Aptitude Test in Architecture | Council of Architecture | 180 | Online | Online/Offline Both | UG | 4+ Colleges |
These exams are widely accepted by top-ranked architecture colleges and require strong preparation due to their competitive nature.
Counselling Process
After qualifying entrance exams, candidates must participate in counselling for seat allocation based on rank, preferences, and availability.
Counselling Overview
| Counselling Type | Conducting Authority | Colleges Covered | Basis |
| National Counselling | Council of Architecture | All-India architecture colleges | National exam rank / score |
The counselling process includes choice filling, seat allotment, document verification, and final admission confirmation.
Entrance Exams for Architecture Colleges in Kerala
Architecture admissions in Kerala are conducted through a mix of national and state-level entrance exams, each varying in terms of acceptance, difficulty, and participating colleges. A structured comparison helps candidates choose the right exams based on their target colleges and preparation level.
National Level Architecture Entrance Exams (UG & PG)
| Exam | Level | Conducting Body | Mode | Duration | Colleges Accepting | Difficulty |
| NATA | UG | Council of Architecture | Online/Offline Both | 180 mins | 4+ Colleges | Medium–High |
These exams are the primary pathway to top government architecture colleges and postgraduate programs in Kerala.
State Level Architecture Entrance Exams
State-level exams provide access to government and private colleges within specific states, often with domicile-based advantages.
State-wise Architecture Colleges in India
India has 21 architecture colleges distributed across states like Kerala, with a mix of government and private institutions. Top government colleges include APJAKSA and Seed, while leading private colleges include Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam and CAT Kerala.
State-wise distribution helps candidates shortlist colleges based on location preference, fees, and admission through state-level exams like state-level exams.
Architecture Colleges in Kerala
| College | Fees | Total Courses |
| KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode) | — | 1 Courses |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | — | 1 Courses |
| NCA | — | 1 Courses |
| APJAKSA | — | 1 Courses |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L | 3 Courses |
| Seed | — | 1 Courses |
City-wise Architecture Colleges in India
Top cities like Palakkad, Kottayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Muvattupuzha, and Kerala - Other host a large number of architecture colleges, including both government and private institutions. Leading colleges include APJAKSA and Seed, along with private institutes like Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, and Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad.
City-wise selection helps candidates choose colleges based on placement opportunities, industry exposure, and proximity to tech hubs.
Architecture Colleges in Palakkad
| College | Fees | Total Courses |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| NCA | — | 1 Courses |
Architecture Colleges in Kottayam
| College | Fees | Total Courses |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
Architecture Colleges in Thiruvananthapuram
| College | Total Courses |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | 1 Courses |
Architecture Colleges in Muvattupuzha
| College | Total Courses |
| Seed | 1 Courses |
Architecture Colleges in Kerala - Other
| College | Total Courses |
| APJAKSA | 1 Courses |
Top Architecture Colleges Accepting Different Exams
Top architecture colleges in India accept scores from exams like NATA, depending on the course and college type. Government institutes such as APJAKSA and Seed accept national and state-level exam scores, while private colleges like Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, and Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad may conduct their own entrance exams.
Understanding exam-wise college acceptance helps candidates shortlist colleges based on their exam performance and admission pathway.
Colleges Accepting NATA
| College | Fees | Total Courses |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L | 3 Courses |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| APJAKSA | — | 1 Courses |
Course wise Architecture Colleges in India
Architecture colleges in India offer admissions across popular branches and emerging fields. APJAKSA and Seed lead in core and tech branches, while private colleges like Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, and Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad offer a wide range of specialisations.
Course-wise selection helps candidates choose colleges based on branch preference, placement trends, and career opportunities.
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) Colleges in Kerala
| College | Fees | Total Courses |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| CAT Kerala | ₹2.8 L | 3 Courses |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| APJAKSA | — | 1 Courses |
| KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode) | — | 1 Courses |
| Seed | — | 1 Courses |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | — | 1 Courses |
| NCA | — | 1 Courses |
Diploma in Architecture Colleges in Kerala
| College | Fees | Total Courses |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | ₹5.6 L | 2 Courses |
Comparison of Top Architecture Colleges
Comparing top architecture colleges helps candidates evaluate options based on fees, placements, rankings, infrastructure, and ROI. Government colleges like IITs, NITs, and IIITs offer lower fees and higher ROI, while private colleges such as BITS, VIT, and SRM provide better infrastructure and higher seat availability.
A structured comparison allows candidates to shortlist colleges based on their budget, rank, preferred course, and career goals, ensuring better decision-making during admission.
Private vs Government Comparison
| Private | Government | |
| Total Colleges | 10 | 11 |
| Top Colleges | Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, and Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | APJAKSA and Seed |
| College distribution % | 48% | 52% |
| Top Courses | B.Arch and M.Arch | B.Arch and M.Arch |
| Fees Range | ₹2.8 L - ₹5.6 L | — |
Top Colleges Comparison Table
| College | Type | Fees |
| APJAKSA | Government | — |
| Seed | Government | — |
| Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam | Private | ₹5.6 L |
| CAT Kerala | Private | ₹2.8 L |
| Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad | Private | ₹5.6 L |
| KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode) | Private | — |
| Marian College of Architecture & Planning, Kazhakuttom | Private | — |
| NCA | Private | — |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many architecture colleges are there in Kerala?
There are over 21 architecture colleges in Kerala, including government, private, and deemed universities offering UG, PG, and doctoral programs.
Which are the top architecture colleges in Kerala?
Top architecture colleges in Kerala include APJAKSA, Seed, Mangalam School of Architecture, Kottayam, CAT Kerala, Global Institute Of Architecture , Palakkad, and KMCT College of Architecture, Kallanthode (Kozhikode), based on rankings, placements, and academic reputation.
What exams are required for admission to architecture colleges in Kerala?
Admission is mainly through exams like NATA, along with other institute-specific and state-level entrance tests depending on the course and college.
What is the average fee for architecture colleges in Kerala?
The fee range for architecture colleges in Kerala is ₹15.5 K - ₹11.6 L.
Which architecture colleges have the best placements?
Colleges with strong industry connections, high placement rates, and better salary outcomes typically include top-ranked institutes and leading private universities in Kerala.
Which is better: government or private architecture colleges?
Government colleges often offer lower fees and higher ROI, while private colleges may provide better infrastructure and more seat availability. The best choice depends on budget, location, and goals.
What is the admission process for architecture colleges in Kerala?
The process generally includes application → entrance exam → result → counselling/selection → seat allotment → admission, depending on the exam and college.
How to choose the best architecture college in Kerala?
Compare colleges by rankings, fees, placements, available courses, location, and the exams they accept to shortlist options that match your goals.
