What topics are covered in the GAT?

In the GAT test, topics like numerical & logical reasoning, general knowledge (art/design/culture), communication skills, and design awareness are covered.

What is tested in the CAT?

In CAT, students are tested based on creativity, visualization, sketching, storytelling, redesign concepts, and design problem-solving.

What is evaluated in the Portfolio & Interview stage?

In the Portfolio & Interview stage, students are evaluated based on originality, diversity of work, thought process, communication skills, and awareness of design, culture, and society.

Do I need prior knowledge of design software?

No, DCET tests creativity and design thinking, not technical software skills.

Are current affairs important for GAT?

Yes, current affairs are critical in the GAT exam, especially in the areas of design, art, culture, and technology.

DCET Exam Syllabus 2026

The Design Common Entrance Test (DCET) 2026 aims to identify young and creative minds and nurture them into future designers. The test evaluates aspirants across a broad range of abilities, from analytical reasoning and general awareness to creativity, visualisation, and portfolio showcasing.

The exam will be conducted in multiple stages:

Round 1:
- Part A: GAT (General Aptitude Test)
- Part B: CAT (Creative Ability Test)
Round 2: Portfolio Review & Interview

Each stage has been curated to test different aspects of a student’s aptitude and creative thinking. The overview of the DCET syllabus 2026 is tabulated below:

Part / Round	Focus Area	Topics Covered / Details of Evaluation	Key Skills to be Tested
Round 1: PART A Online & PART B Offline
Part A: GAT (General Ability Test)	Aptitude, Analytical Skills, Awareness	Numerical Reasoning:Puzzles, series, analogies, data interpretation. General Knowledge & Current Affairs:Awareness of art, design, culture, history, environment, sustainability, and technology Design Awareness:Recognition of logos, brands, landmark products, and famous designers English Communication Skills:Reading comprehension, grammar, synonyms/antonyms, and interpretation of short passages	Problem‑solving and reasoning ability Design awareness Clarity in language & communication Understanding of design fundamentals and visual culture
Part B: CAT (Creative Ability Test)	Creativity, Imagination, Design Thinking	Visual Representation: Sketching,doodling, storyboarding, rendering design ideas. Problem-Solving through Design: Conceptual sketches, redesigning everyday objects. Creativity & Imagination:Idea generation, abstract and innovative representation. Observation & Visualization:Perspective drawing, pattern making, and visual sequencing. Material Handling (for advanced rounds): Use of basic materials for prototyping.	Originality and novelty of ideas Visualization skills in 2D/3D Ability to innovate and redesign practically Hands‑on design thinking and execution
Round 2: Conducted via DCET Website
Portfolio Review	Showcasing originality and design journey	Range of Work: Sketches, digital art, crafts, photography, or design explorations Originality:Unique design expression (not templates or copies) Process Documentation:Evidence of thought process from ideation → development → final output Diversity: Showcasing multiple media and approaches Personal Voice: Ability to reflect individuality, passion, and interest through work	Range & diversity of work Originality & personal voice Process documentation (thinking journey) Aesthetic & presentation
Interview Round	Understanding the depth of the design perspective	Discussion with panel focusing on: Design Thinking: Awareness of the design process and contemporary design Storytelling Ability:Explaining their own portfolio/projects Contextual Awareness:Linking design to cultural, social, or environmental themes Communication of Ideas: Confidence, articulation, and clarity while presenting	Clarity of thought & communication Awareness of design, society & culture Reflection & ability to defend work Motivation & fit for design

Important Pointers for Candidates:

The topics mentioned are exhaustive yet indicative, i.e., the actual question paper may not cover all the listed areas.
Originality, conceptual thinking, and design sensibility in our immediate environment will matter more than technical drawing proficiency.
Documentation of the thinking process (how a student arrives at a concept) will be valued as much as the final answer.
Evaluation will span from analytical aptitude (Part A) to creativity and imagination (Part B), eventually assessing a candidate’s authentic voice through portfolio and interview.

DCET Exam Syllabus 2026

Important Pointers for Candidates:

FAQ’s