How to Become a Fashion Designer After 12th: Courses, Fees, and Career Options

Do you dream of sketching stunning outfits or launching your label? If so, a career in fashion design can be the right choice for you. Fashion design is not just about designing clothes, it is about expressing your creativity through fabric and style.

If you have ever wondered how to become a fashion designer after 12th, this blog breaks it down for you. Here, in this blog, you will learn about the courses available, how long they take, what they cost, and even insights into the fashion designing courses after 12th salary.

Who is a Fashion Designer and What do they Do?

A fashion designer is a professional who brings clothing, footwear, or accessory ideas to life through their creativity. The role combines artistic vision with technical skills to create products that reflect trends and personal style. It is essential to note that fashion designers play an important role in shaping how people express themselves through fashion.

Here’s a closer look at what fashion designers typically do:

• Sketch original designs either by hand or using digital tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to bring ideas to life.
• Choose materials based on texture, colour, durability, season and sustainability. The fabric must complement the design’s look and feel.
• Create prototypes using sample fabrics to test the fit and flow on mannequins or models.
• Revise and improve designs after testing, making adjustments to patterns, cuts or fabric choices.
• Research trends to ensure their work is relevant, unique and appealing to the target market.
• Market their creations by showcasing them in fashion shows, selling directly to customers or partnering with retailers.

Many designers specialise in one area, like apparel, footwear or accessories—and often build their brand around their unique style.

How to Become a Fashion Designer After 12th

Eligibility Criteria to Start Your Fashion Design Journey

If you are aiming to pursue fashion design after 12th, meeting the basic eligibility criteria is the first step. These requirements vary slightly by institute.

Educational Background

• Students from any stream. This means there are fashion designing courses after 12th commerce as well as fashion designing courses after 12th science, and courses for those with an arts background.
• While there is no fixed subject requirement, having studied Art, Design, or Home Science in school can give you an edge. These subjects help build early exposure to creativity and textile basics, all of which are beneficial in fashion design education.

Minimum Marks Required

• Most colleges require a pass in Class 12 with a minimum of 50% marks.
• Top fashion design colleges in India may ask for higher scores, especially for degree-level programmes.
• Always check the eligibility criteria of the institutes you are applying to, as cut-offs may differ.

Entrance Exams You May Need to Clear

Enrolling in a reputable fashion institute typically requires passing an entrance test. Some key entrance exams for fashion design include:

• NIFT Entrance Exam
• Conducted by the National Institute of Fashion Technology, this exam is one of the most recognised in India for fashion design aspirants.
• NID Entrance Exam
• Held by the National Institute of Design, this exam focuses mainly on design thinking and creativity.
• Pearl Academy Entrance Test
• Pearl Academy conducts its own entrance exam for various design programmes, including fashion design at the undergraduate level.

Types of Fashion Designing Courses After 12th

Choosing the right course in fashion design after 12th depends on your career goals. Below are the main types of courses you can pursue after completing 12th grade, each offering a different level of learning.

Diploma in Fashion Design

• Overview
  The diploma courses in fashion design after 12th are ideal for those who want to step into the fashion industry quickly through entry-level roles. These courses focus on foundational skills and practical knowledge
• Duration
  1 to 2 years  

Undergraduate Degree in Fashion Design

• Overview
  Undergraduate degree courses in fashion design provide a more detailed education in fashion. These courses are ideal for students seeking an in-depth understanding of fashion design.
• Duration
  3 to 4 years

Certificate Courses in Fashion Design

• Overview
  Certificate courses are short, skill-specific programmes perfect for those who want to upgrade particular areas of expertise. They are also an excellent option for beginners testing their interest in fashion design.
• Duration
  A few weeks to a few months

Undergraduate Fashion Designing Courses After 12th

Here’s a list of popular undergraduate fashion design course details among students: 

Related Design Courses After 12th (Non-Fashion-Specific)

These courses fall under design but are not directly related to fashion. They may interest students with broader creative interests:

Diploma Courses in Fashion Designing After 12th

Certificate Courses in Fashion Designing After 12th

Career in Fashion Designing After Class 12th

Fashion design offers a wide variety of career paths, making it a lucrative field for creative individuals. You can choose from a comprehensive range of fashion technology courses after 12th. Whether you prefer working backstage or stepping into the spotlight, there is a role that fits your passion. You can work as a fashion designer, textile designer, or even a personal stylist.

Here are the details of fashion designing courses after 12th salary:

Conclusion

You have diverse career paths in fashion design after completing Class 12. You can explore the various types of fashion courses, including fashion technology courses after 12th. You must choose a course that best suits your interests and career objectives. Carefully review the course requirements and fees, as this will help you make informed decisions.

FAQs

Q1: How to do fashion designing after 12th?

A1: After 12th, you can pursue a Bachelor’s degree (B.Des or B.Sc) in Fashion Design, or choose a diploma or certificate course. Focus on building key design skills, creating a strong portfolio, and gaining hands-on experience through internships and staying updated on trends and networking with professionals is also essential.

Q2: What is the qualification for a fashion designer?

A2: The basic qualification to become a fashion designer is a 10+2 pass in any stream with at least 50% marks. After that, you can enrol in a diploma, certificate, or full-time degree course, like Bachelor of Design (B.Des) or B.Sc in Fashion Design.

Q3: Can I become a fashion designer after 12th?

A3: Yes, you can become a fashion designer after completing your 12th grade. You will need to join a fashion design course, such as a diploma, certificate, or degree programme. These courses teach you about design, production, and marketing, helping you build essential skills.

Q4: How to start fashion designing?

A4: To start a career in fashion designing, you must pass 10+2 with at least 50% marks. Then, apply for a reputed fashion design course. Gain practical experience, build a creative portfolio, and keep improving your skills through workshops and internships.

Q5: What is the entrance exam for fashion design?

A5: Popular entrance exams for fashion design in India include NIFT, NID, UCEED, and CEED. While UCEED and CEED are primarily for industrial and product design, some institutes accept them for broader design courses. These exams assess your creativity, design aptitude, and general knowledge. Clearing them can help you secure admission to top fashion institutes.

Q6: Is fashion design a high-paying job?

A6: Yes, fashion design can be a rewarding career and can give you a high-paying job. Entry-level designers may earn INR 3 to 6 LPA, while experienced designers and those with a strong portfolio or top brand associations can earn significantly more.

Q7: Which type of fashion design is best?

A7: The best type depends on your goals. Popular choices include:

• B.Des in Fashion Design – A 4-year degree with practical training
• Diploma in Fashion Design – 1–2 years, focused on specific skills
• Short-term certifications – Ideal for styling, merchandising, or illustration

These courses help you explore the field of fashion and develop essential skills for it.