Response surface methodology (RSM) has been used to optimize the critical parameters responsible for higher surface area of ceria nanopowder prepared by surfactant assisted precipitation method. A three-level central composite design (CCD) was used to optimize pH, CTAB/metal molar ratio and calcination temperature. A quadratic model between response and the independent parameters was developed and the response surface model was tested with analysis of variance (ANOVA). The optimum operating conditions determined were a pH value of 9.4, CTAB/metal molar ratio of 0.5 and calcination temperature of 266 degrees C. Under these optimal conditions maximum surface area of 158 m(2)/g has been achieved. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.