Interior design students and recent graduates can explore different IDAK membership routes. The current Membership page describes student membership for learners enrolled at recognised Kenyan institutions and graduate membership for recent graduates within the period stated on the plan. Check the live eligibility wording before applying, because categories and requirements can change.
Student membership: while you are enrolled
If you are currently studying interior design, check that your institution and course meet the current category description. Keep proof of enrolment ready if the application requests it. Use your own school projects to explain the design problem, process, and decisions; label academic work honestly so it is not mistaken for a client commission.
Graduate membership: after completing your studies
The graduate route is intended for recent graduates who meet the time period and qualification conditions on the current plan. Prepare your graduation or qualification information and record the date you completed your course. If your graduation date is close to the category boundary, ask IDAK which category applies before starting an application.
Build a portfolio you can explain
A student or graduate portfolio does not need to pretend to have years of completed commissions. It can include selected studio projects, research, measured drawings, material studies, visualisations, and any real practice work for which you have permission to share the material. For each example, explain the brief, your contribution, and what you learned.
When you add work to IDAK, use the account's portfolio area and follow the image and review instructions. Read how to post your portfolio on IDAK and complete the designer profile checklist.
Apply with clear information
Compare student and graduate eligibility, fees, and renewal terms on the live IDAK Membership page. Then use the selected plan link, create your account, complete the requested profile fields, upload any category-specific evidence, and follow the payment and review prompts.
On the public Membership page checked on 2 November 2026, Student Membership is listed at KSh 2,000 to join and KSh 1,500 to renew. Confirm the current figure on the live plan page before paying, because the association may update its fees.
Keep your portfolio honest about the stage of each project. Academic studio work can show planning and design thinking when it is labelled as academic. An internship project should identify your role and respect the employer's or client's permission. Never imply that a student exercise was built for a paying client if it was not.
Use the first few projects to show range with purpose: one residential plan, one commercial or hospitality brief if relevant to your course, and a process example that explains how you developed a solution. Curate for quality and clarity rather than uploading every assignment.
For a complete onboarding walkthrough, see how to join IDAK. If you are not sure whether you should select student or graduate membership, contact the association before paying.
Questions for students and recent graduates
Can I include coursework in my IDAK portfolio? If the account permits the project and you have the right to share the material, label it clearly as academic work.
What if I graduated more than three years ago? Review the current category definitions and ask IDAK which plan fits; do not assume the Graduate route still applies.
