CEED 2026 Exam Pattern: Understanding the Structure (Part A & Part B), Sections, & Marking Scheme

CEED 2026 Exam Pattern will be officially released by IIT Bombay on its admission portal through the CEED 2026 information brochure. This pattern will help candidates understand the overall structure of the exam, including the types of questions, marking scheme, duration, weightage, and mode of the test. The CEED exam is designed to assess a candidate's aptitude for design and is divided into two parts: Part A and Part B.

Part A is a computer-based test (CBT) consisting of objective-type questions. It evaluates a wide range of abilities, such as visual and spatial awareness, environmental and social awareness, design thinking, etc. Part B, on the other hand, is a pen-and-paper-based section that includes five descriptive questions. This part is aimed at testing a candidate’s design, drawing, and writing skills, which are crucial for success in a design programme. However, it's important to note that the Part B answer booklet is evaluated only if the candidate qualifies for Part A by meeting the CEED 2026 Part A Cutoff. Understanding the exam pattern in advance can significantly help candidates plan and prepare more effectively. CEED 2026 Exam Date is January 18, 2026.

CEED 2026 Exam Structure

In addition to studying the CEED syllabus, candidates must also understand the test format of CEED 2026. The CEED exam pattern differs between Parts A and B. The following are some of the key highlights for both halves of the CEED 2026 exam:

Check: CEED 2026 Application Process

CEED Marking Scheme 2026

The CEED 2026 Marking Scheme is an important feature for applicants to understand because it directly influences how their answers are assessed. This section explains the penalties for erroneous responses as well as the points provided for correct ones. The marking scheme for CEED 2026 differs between Part A and Part B of the design exam. Part A has a negative marking scheme, but Part B does not.

CEED Part A Marking Scheme

Aspirants can review the marks they can get by answering questions in various sections of the CEED 2026 Part A test in the table below:

CEED Part B Marking Scheme

The marking scheme for the CEED Part B exam is as follows:

CEED 2026 Time Allocation

Effective time management during the CEED 2026 exam is critical for finishing all portions within the time limit. Understanding how time is split across several sections allows candidates to pace themselves appropriately and maximise their performance. This section explains the time allotted to each section of the exam and offers suggestions for managing time effectively during the exam.

The exam lasts 3 hours:

• Part A: 1 hour (computer-based)
• Part B: 2 hours (offline)

CEED 2026 Syllabus

The CEED 2026 Syllabus gives candidates a thorough knowledge of the important topics and areas to study for the exam. Knowing the syllabus is essential for good preparation because it covers a wide range of topics, such as design ability, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. This section summarises the important subjects from both sections of the exam, allowing applicants to arrange their study strategy accordingly.

Part A Syllabus:

• Visualisation and Spatial Ability
• Environmental and Social Awareness
• Analytic and Logical Reasoning
• Language and Creativity
• Design Thinking and Problem Solving.

Part B Syllabus:

• Sketching and Drawing Skills
• Creativity and Visual Communication
• Design Problem Solving

CEED 2026 Exam Pattern: Important Points to Remember

Understanding the CEED 2026 exam format is critical for candidates to approach the exam confidently and clearly. This section focuses on major components of the exam structure, such as the types of questions, time limits, and marking scheme. Keeping these key aspects in mind will allow candidates to avoid surprises on exam day and ensure good preparation.:

• All CEED Part A and B questions will be displayed on a computer. While applicants must submit Part A answers on a computer, Part B responses must be written in the given answer booklet.
• To answer each question in the NAT section of CEED Part-A, applicants must use a virtual keyboard. This section contains no correct answer selections.
• Each MSQ has four options, of which one or more are correct.
• Each MCQ contains four choices, and only one answer is correct.
• The invigilator will give scribble pads for rough work during Part A of the exam. The pads must be returned after the exam is completed.
• All questions in Part B of the CEED exam are essential.
• In Part B, applicants are allowed to utilise things such as colour pencils, crayons, and sketch pens unless otherwise mentioned in the question.

Read More: CEED 2026 Question Paper

CEED 2026 Common Challenges

The CEED 2026 test can bring a variety of problems for applicants, ranging from time management to interpreting complicated question patterns. This section discusses frequent issues encountered by candidates and offers practical strategies to overcome them. Candidates who are aware of these issues ahead of time might better prepare for a more enjoyable exam experience.

• Time management: Allow enough time for both phases without rushing. Practice under timed settings to enhance your speed.
• Part B: Candidates may have difficulty coming up with creative ideas. Solve design difficulties on a regular basis to increase confidence.
• Errors: Errors in NATs and MSQs include a lack of clarity in numerical responses or picking erroneous options. Double-check your answers before submitting.

CEED 2026 Exam Pattern FAQs