How to Prepare for NID 2025 (Mains & Prelims): Check Preparation Strategy

How to Prepare for NID 2025 (Mains & Prelims): Check Preparation Strategy

Edited By Ritika Jonwal | Updated on Nov 13, 2024 10:29 PM IST | #NID DAT
Switch toEnglishEnglish Icon HindiHindi Icon

The National Institute of Design, or NID, is one of the most prestigious design institutions. The NID administers the Design Aptitude Test (DAT), a national entry exam. The NID exam is considered one of the most difficult entrance exams for design schools. To perform well on this test, the individual must have an effective NID preparation strategy. Students must saddle up with their preparation and tactics when the National Institute of Design releases the NID DAT 2025 announcement on September 3, 2024 at admissions.nid.edu. The preliminary round of the NID admission test 2025 will be held on January 5, 2025.

Making an effective study plan, selecting the appropriate NID study materials, routinely studying and completing exercises, working through sample papers, and taking notes are all part of preparing for the NID exam. Additionally, the candidate will be required to take a few NID mock tests in the weeks preceding the NID DAT exam. Thus, in order to replicate exam conditions, students should take the NID mock test online. It will also be beneficial to do well on the test and boosts students confidence for the actual exam.

Stages of NID Exam - Prelims and Mains

Well, the students who are preparing for the NID 2025 exam well in advance will have the best chance of passing it with ease. The NID DAT 2025 competition is fierce. Thus, you must exert maximum effort.

There are two steps in the NID admissions process (Prelims and Mains): NID DAT Prelims is where candidates must first appear. The candidates are narrowed down for the NIT DAT Mains, a studio test, based on their prelim results.

How To Crack NID Entrance Exam 2025 - Stages of Preparation

Aspirants need to qualify for the NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT) to gain admission to NID campuses. Those aspirants who make up their minds to appear in the NID DAT exam should go through on how to prepare for the NID entrance exam thoroughly. It will help you while in NID exam preparation. In this article, Careers360 offers a set of top-notch suggestions on how to prepare for NID 2025. The list of preparation tips are as follows.

1. Understand the NID DAT exam pattern
Before beginning the NID DAT preparation, one must be thorough with the exam pattern. However, In the NID 2024 exam, significant changes have been made in the NID exam pattern. Since NID DAT is conducted in 2 stages Prelims and Mains. The NID DAT prelims now feature an altered structure, notably with an increase in the drawing section and a decrease in the aptitude portion. Previously, the total marks for the Aptitude and Drawing sections were 25 and 75, respectively. Primarily, the NID DAT 2024 exam included a total of 23 questions. These modifications represent a realignment of focus and temporal distribution among sections to efficiently evaluate candidates' competencies.

2. Know your NID Syllabus 2025

Get yourself familiarized with the NID entrance exam syllabus. Get to know the list of important topics and then create a study plan. The list of important topics are as follows Students can refer to the article NID DAT Syllabus 2025 PDF (Prelims and Mains) in detail where they can find all the list of important topics for Prelims and Mains of B.Des and M.Des program separately. It will make students NID DAT preparation effectively.

3. Create a Study Plan
Every person has a different amount of preparedness depending on their study habits and capacity for critical thinking and problem - solving approach. Hence, there are few things that students should keep in mind when they study.

  • Analyze your strengths and weaknesses first.

  • Second, categorize the list of important topics from NID study material according to their weightage. Divide them into the most and least significant topics.

  • Third, begin by studying simple topics for the NID DAT preparation and gradually advance to more challenging ones.

  • Maintain a regular study schedule because consistency is the key

  • Continue to practice the questions and take the mock exams on a regular basis.

  • Follow up on current affairs and read on general knowledge topics daily.

  • Practice at least one drawing exercise on a daily basis to create more accuracy and speed for the exam.

Indian Institute of Art & Design Admissions 2025

Associated with FDCI, CII & IIFTI | Merit-cum-means scholarships to deserving students

BITS Design School B.Des Admissions 2025

B.Des Admissions open for 2025 | 186K+ Alumni

4. Solve Previous Year's Question Papers

Solve all previous years' question papers for NID DAT to boost your preparation. After that, give daily mock tests. For more practice you can also download NID DAT B.des Prelims eBook from our website in which you can find 10 free mock test series of NID DAT Prelims exam.

Also Read: How to Crack NID DAT in 3 Months

Preparation Strategy for NID DAT Prelims 2025

The Prelims exam is conducted in two parts, Part A and Part B. Given below is the effective preparation strategy for NID DAT Prelims. To study more in detail please refer to the article How To Prepare For NID DAT Prelims

The Prelims exam is conducted in two parts, Part A and Part B. Given below is the effective preparation strategy for NID DAT Prelims.

  • Conceptual Understanding: Pay close attention to learning the foundational concepts of design, such as perspective, color theory, form, and composition. Examine the contributions made by renowned designers and the history of design.

  • Practice questions: NID DAT prelims comprise three parts that are NAT, MCQ and MSQ. So Practice the MCQs, MSQs and NATs from past years' practice papers.

  • Refer Books: After attempting the mock test, analyze your answer sheet examine for the incorrect answers and comprehend the underlying ideas. Refer to the NID books for easy review. Write down key formulas, ideas, and shortcuts in a notebook which will help in the last-minute revisions.

  • To study more in detail please refer to the article How To Prepare For NID DAT Prelims

NID DAT BDes 2025 Complete Guide
NID DAT BDes eBook gives in-depth information about the entrance test including the list of courses offered by NID, exam pattern, seat matrix, section-wise analysis, preparation strategy and more.
Download EBook

Also Read: NID Vs NIFT

Preparation Strategy for NID DAT Mains 2025

To NID-Studio Test is the advanced stage of evaluating admission at NID in different streams. It further evaluates an aspirant's Sensory Reflection, Agility, and Problem-Solving Skills. The questions in the studio test are practical and situation-based, where one needs to respond immediately to a given scenario. It is usually doable within the time limit if one has meticulously followed the above-shared advice for prelims.

There is no fixed format for questions, but it is doable if you have trained your senses well, no matter the challenge. For example, remember the 10-15 sounds, which you must identify and note in your answer sheet. (Purely Sensory and Cognitive Evaluation).

Top Design Entrance Exam

Additional Tips for NID Mains/Studio Test

Since the Studio Test is very crucial in NID exam. So here are some additional tips for how to prepare for NID Studio Test effectively.

  • Avoid multiple colors in Studio Test: It is advised to keep the sketches minimalist, looking at the time limitations, using mostly pencil for sketching and pencil colors for coloring where only required. Try to communicate using the idea through shading and highlights only.

  • Avoiding Complex Solutions/Ideas: For a given situation or question, try to keep your response as practical and simple as possible with clarity of the use case scenario. Evaluators are looking for a skill set capable of generating solutions that seem practical and doable by looking only.

  • Time Management: It is one of the most common advice given to any aspirant since time management is the key to scoring well in any exam. Distribute time equally to all the questions, without being carried to any one single question. Try to attempt most questions, while attempting one should always begin with the one where you feel most confident.

  • Thumbnail Technique: Before attempting to answer any question on the answer sheet, generate a thumbnail overview of the solution in your mind on a rough sheet. This empowers an individual to think clearly and visualize the proposed solution's requirements.

Pearl Academy B.Des Admissions 2025

No. 1 Design & Fashion Institute by ASSOCHAM, India Today, Outlook and The Week rankings

Symbiosis Institute of Design | B.Des/M.Des 2025

Pre-placement as well as placements offered

Top Fashion Design Colleges by Location

Recommended Books For NID Preparation 2025

Given below is the list of NID preparation books that can help in your NID DAT preparation.

Book Name

Author Name

NID (B.Des) Entrance Book and Test Series

AFAINDIA

Basic Rendering

Robert W.Gill

NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide

RPH Editorial Board

NID DAT Books

R.S Aggarwal (Aptitude Section)

Design Drawings

Francis D.K. Ching

NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide

Surendra

NIFT, NID, IIFT Entrance Examination

Dharmendra Mittal

Articles

Upcoming Design Exams

Application Date:23 August,2024 - 28 February,2025

Application Date:24 August,2024 - 16 January,2025

View All Design Exams

Certifications By Top Providers

My SQL Basics
Via Great Learning
Master Data Management for Beginners
Via TCS iON Digital Learning Hub
VLSI Physical Design
Via Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
C++ Foundation
Via PW Skills
Udemy
 1087 courses
Coursera
 505 courses
Edx
 330 courses
Vskills
 157 courses
Swayam
 135 courses

Explore Top Universities Across Globe

University of Essex, Colchester
 Wivenhoe Park Colchester CO4 3SQ
University College London, London
 Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT
The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh
 Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh, Post Code EH8 9YL
University of Bristol, Bristol
 Beacon House, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1QU
University of Nottingham, Nottingham
 University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD

Questions related to NID DAT

Have a question related to NID DAT ?

Hello,

Yes, it's possible to prepare for the NID DAT 2025 exam on your own, even with limited time, by following these steps:

  1. Understand the Syllabus : Focus on key areas like design principles, creativity, visualization, and observation skills.
  2. Solve Previous Papers : Practice with past NID DAT papers to understand question types and patterns.
  3. Time Management : Dedicate daily hours to sketching, problem-solving, and revision.
  4. Strengthen Drawing Skills : Practice daily to improve speed and accuracy.
  5. Use Online Resources : Utilize free tutorials, sample papers, and design blogs.
  6. Mock Tests : Take regular mock exams to assess progress and manage time efficiently.

Hope it helps !

Hello,

There are numerous websites which give free study material and classes to prepare for entrance exams NID DAT, UCEED, or NIFT. Here are a few popular ones:

YouTube: YouTube has many educators as well as institutes, which have been uploading free video lectures on important topics, on aptitude for design, and how to give these exams. Useful content can be found in the channels "Design Coach" and "NID Preparation".

You can download free courses offered on websites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy on the topics of design principles, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Official Websites: Both NID and UCEED and also NIFT would usually release sample papers and previous question papers for self-preparation.

Study Groups: One can join online forums or social media groups which are dedicated to NID, UCEED, and NIFT preparation for peer-to-peer learning assistance.

The resource utilization would bring in good preparation for the exams and, therefore, increase in confidence.

Hello,

Preparing for the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance exam involves focusing on several key areas. Here’s a structured approach to get you started:

1. Understand the Exam Structure

Familiarize yourself with the NIFT entrance exam format:

  • General Ability Test (GAT): Tests general knowledge, current affairs, and quantitative ability.
  • Creative Ability Test (CAT): Assesses your creative and visual ability through sketching and design-based questions.
  • Situation Test (for B.Des): Evaluates your ability to create a design from given materials.
  • Group Discussion and Personal Interview (for M.Des/MFM): Tests your communication skills, understanding of the fashion industry, and design knowledge.

2. Gather Study Materials

  • For GAT: Use general knowledge books, current affairs magazines, and quantitative aptitude guides.
  • For CAT: Practice sketching and drawing regularly. Books on design and creativity can be useful.
  • For Situation Test: Practice creating models from various materials and understanding design principles.
  • For GD/PI: Prepare by staying updated on fashion trends, industry news, and developing a strong portfolio.

3. Create a Study Plan

  • Daily Study: Allocate time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Weekly Goals: Set goals for completing practice papers and revising key concepts.
  • Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and improve time management.

4. Enroll in Coaching Classes (if needed)

Consider joining a coaching institute that specializes in NIFT preparation. They can provide structured guidance, practice tests, and expert feedback.

5. Work on Your Portfolio

If you’re applying for design courses, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your creative work. Include sketches, designs, and any relevant projects.

6. Refer to Previous Years’ Papers

Solving past years' question papers helps you understand the exam pattern and types of questions. It also aids in identifying important topics.

7. Stay Updated

  • Follow fashion industry news to stay informed about trends and innovations.
  • Read relevant books and articles about design and fashion.

8. Practice Creativity

Engage in activities that boost your creativity, such as drawing, painting, or crafting. Keep experimenting with new ideas and techniques.

By focusing on these areas, you'll build a solid foundation for the NIFT entrance exam. Good luck with your preparation!

You can also refer to the following articles to better understand the NIFT examination and its preperation strategy :-

1. https://design.careers360.com/articles/how-prepare-for-nift-entrance-exam

2. https://design.careers360.com/exams/nift-entrance-exam


Hope it helps !

No, diploma or polytechnic students are generally not eligible to apply for the NID DAT exam.
The eligibility criteria for NID DAT typically requires a 10+2 qualification or its equivalent. This means you must have completed your higher secondary education to be eligible for the exam.

I hope this information helps.


Stages of the Exam:

The PG NID entrance exam typically consists of two stages:

  • Prelims: This written test might include objective and subjective questions to assess your design aptitude, creativity, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of design principles.

  • Mains: Candidates who qualify in the prelims are called for the mains stage, which usually involves a studio test, design exercises, and sometimes a personal interview. The specific format might vary depending on the chosen M.Des. specialization.

Prelims Exam Pattern (General Expectations):

Here is a general idea of what the prelims might cover, though the specific weightage and question types can vary:

  • Design Aptitude: This section might assess your visual thinking, observation skills, ability to identify patterns, and spatial reasoning. Expect questions on visual perception, mental ability tests, and basic design principles.

  • Discipline-Specific Test (for some programs): Certain M.Des. specializations might have a separate test focusing on the specific design discipline.

  • General Aptitude Test: This section might include questions on analytical reasoning, verbal ability, and general knowledge.

Mains Exam Pattern (General Expectations):

The mains exam format is more program-specific, but might involve elements like:

  • Studio Test: This hands-on test assesses your design skills, creativity, and ability to translate ideas into visual form. The specific task or materials used can vary depending on the chosen specialization.

  • Design Exercises: You might be presented with design challenges or problems to solve creatively. This assesses your approach to design thinking and problem-solving.

  • Personal Interview (for some programs): Some specializations might have a personal interview to assess your motivation, interest in the field, and understanding of the program.

I hope it helps!

View All
Video Game Designer

Career as a video game designer is filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. A video game designer is someone who is involved in the process of creating a game from day one. He or she is responsible for fulfilling duties like designing the character of the game, the several levels involved, plot, art and similar other elements. Individuals who opt for a career as a video game designer may also write the codes for the game using different programming languages.

Depending on the video game designer job description and experience they may also have to lead a team and do the early testing of the game in order to suggest changes and find loopholes.

3 Jobs Available
Animator

An animation career is one of the most interesting career options in the creative field. The primary job of careers in animation is to create multiple images, known as frames, that results in an illusion of movement called animation when displayed in a quick sequence. Students should pursue Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Visual Arts to opt for an animator career path. Individuals who opt for a career as an animator typically specialize in one of the media and may further concentrate on a specific area, such as characters, scenery, or background design. Animators typically use computer software to do such work.

2 Jobs Available
Fashion Designer

Fashion designers are creative professionals who transform ideas into stylish and wearable clothing and accessories. Using a combination of artistic flair and technical skills, they sketch designs, choose fabrics, and oversee the production process. Fashion designers stay aligned with trends, adapting their creations to suit the evolving tastes of the audience.

Fashion designers make trendy designer clothes, stay updated with the trends, using various modern elements into their designs. They are always coming up with new ideas and turning their creative visions into clothes people can wear. Their creations allow people to express themselves through what they wear, showing their unique style and identity.

2 Jobs Available
Interior Designer

Interior designers create various spaces, from indoor to outdoor, they provide a pleasing home environment, as well as, make the environment beautiful. It is the job of interior designers who study the art of transforming a space into what the client wishes for. Interior designers work with a wide variety of clients, starting from small house owners to big corporations. 

As part of the interior design career, individuals should also be aware of certain inspection regulations. Interior designing is to enhance the interior of a building to achieve an aesthetically pleasing environment. This is a part of both science and arts to make a certain place healthier and more peaceful for the people.

2 Jobs Available
Product Designer

Individuals who opt for a career as product designers are responsible for designing the components and overall product concerning its shape, size, and material used in manufacturing. They are responsible for the aesthetic appearance of the product. A product designer uses his or her creative skills to give a product its final outlook and ensures the functionality of the design. 

Students can opt for various product design degrees such as B.Des and M.Des to become product designers. Industrial product designer prepares 3D models of designs for approval and discusses them with clients and other colleagues. Individuals who opt for a career as a product designer estimate the total cost involved in designing.

2 Jobs Available
Graphic Designer

A graphic designer career designs products, displays, posters, hoardings, logos, and marketing materials. Graphic designers can get employment in publications, advertising and marketing firms, and much more. A graphic is a form of vision that can be associated with art, imagination, or expression. A graphic designer creates eye-catching images by combining layout, colour theory, and graphics.

A graphic designer combines technical skills with artistic vision to provide visual content. He or she develops layouts for books, brochures, advertisements, and websites using design tools. A graphic designer closely collaborates with teams or clients to comprehend project specifications and brand standards.

2 Jobs Available
Industrial Designer

The concepts for manufactured products such as cars, home appliances, electronics and toys are developed by industrial designers. They combine art, business and technology to produce daily goods that people need. Individuals who opt for a career as Industrial Designers operate in a number of industries. Ironically, manufacturers employ only 29 per cent of industrial designers directly. Students can pursue Visual Communication to become Industrial Designer.

2 Jobs Available
Visual Merchandiser

A visual merchandiser is a professional who makes it look astonishing by utilising his or her designing skills. Visual merchandising contributes to awareness and brand loyalty among consumers. An individual, in visual merchandising career outlook, plays a crucial role in fetching the attention of customers and bringing them to the store. 

2 Jobs Available
Back to top