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NID DAT 2026: Registration (Open), Exam Date (Out), Pattern, Eligibility, Syllabus, Previous Year Papers
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The National Institute of Design has opened the NID DAT 2026 application form on September 11, 2025. Candidates can register online from the official website - admissions.nid.edu till December 1, 2025. The NID entrance exam for prelims will be conducted on December 21, 2025. The NID DAT 2026 notification includes the complete NID DAT 2026 schedule and complete details of the NID 2026 entrance exam. Interested applicants must make sure they fulfil the NID eligibility criteria before completing registrations online.
This Story also Contains
- NID DAT 2026: An Overview
- NID DAT Exam Date 2026
- NID 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- NID DAT 2026 Application Form
- NID 2026 Fees
- NID DAT 2026 Syllabus
- NID DAT 2026 Exam Pattern
- Previous Year NID Question Paper
- NID 2026 Preparation Tips
- NID DAT 2026 Books for Preparation
- NID DAT 2026 Admit Card
- NID DAT 2026 Answer Key
- NID DAT 2026 Result
- NID Selection Process (Revised Weightage)
- NID DAT 2026 Counselling
NID DAT 2026 exam will have two components - Prelims and Mains. As per the revised selection process, NID prelims will not have any weightage in the final selection of the candidates. It will only be a qualifyin exam for the mains. Candidates will be offered NID admissions 2026 based on the scores in mains exam. Aspirants planning to appear for the NID DAT 2026 can check the NID exam eligibility, the paper pattern of the NID DAT exam, the best books for preparation, NID exam dates, and more on this page. The institute will conduct the NID DAT entrance exam for admissions into B.Des and M.Des programmes of NID campuses. Continue reading for more information on the NID entrance exam 2026.
NID DAT 2026: An Overview
NID DAT is a national-level exam conducted by the National Institute of Design once a year for undergraduate and postgraduate students. The NID DAT exam will be conducted in English for 3 hours. Candidates can refer to NID previous year papers to get an idea of the NID difficulty levels of the NID exam. Read the complete article to know more about the NID entrance exam 2026. Check out the overview of the NID 2026 exam.
| Particulars | NID Details |
|---|---|
NID full form | NID Design Aptitude Test |
Short Name | NID DAT |
Conducting Body | National Institute of Design |
Frequency of Conduct | Once a year |
Exam Level | National Level Exam |
Languages | English |
Mode of Exam | Offline |
Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
Official website | admissions.nid.edu |
NID DAT Exam Date 2026
The National Institute of Design has notified the NID 2026 exam date at admissions.nid.edu. Candidates can refer to the table given below for the schedule of NID DAT 2026 BDes and MDes.
NID DAT 2026 Exam Date
| NID Events | NID BDes Dates 2026 | NID MDes Dates 2026 |
|---|---|---|
NID DAT 2026 application form date | September 11, 2025 | September 11, 2025 |
| NID application form 2026 last date | December 1, 2025 | December 1, 2025 |
Correction of NID DAT 2026 application form | December 2-4 2025 | December 2-4 2025 |
NID DAT admit card 2026 | December 11, 2025 | December 11, 2025 |
NID 2026 exam date for prelims | December 21, 2025 | December 21, 2025 |
NID DAT result 2026 prelims | April 7, 2026 | February 17, 2026 |
Rechecking request for DAT prelims | April 7-8, 2026 | February 17-18, 2026 |
Download admit card for NID DAT mains | April 2026 | February 2026 |
NID DAT 2026 exam date for mains | April 2026 | March 2026 |
NID DAT 2026 mains result | May 2026 | May 2026 |
Rechecking request for DAT mains 2026 | May 2026 | May 2026 |
NID 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the BDes and MDes programme should meet NID DAT 2026 eligibility criteria. It is important to fulfill the NID DAT eligibility criteria so as not to face any disqualification at the last moment. The NID eligibility criteria 2026 for BDes and MDes programmes are different. Candidates can refer to the table given below for the NID DAT eligibility criteria 2026.
NID DAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
| Programme | Educational Qualification | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
BDes |
|
|
MDes |
|
|
NID DAT 2026 Application Form
The National Institute of Design has released the NID DAT 2026 application form on its official website. Follow the steps to fill out the NID DAT registration form:
- Visit to the official website—admissions.nid.edu
- Click on the NID DAT registration link and get yourself registered.
- Go to the NID DAT application form link and enter the login credentials.
- Fill up the personal details, such as
- Name of the candidate
- Father’s name
- Mother’s name
- Gender
- Qualification
- Email ID & Mobile number
- Communication address
- Date of birth
- Course name
- Category
- Nationality
- Select the NID DAT 2026 exam centre
- Upload the photograph of the candidate
- Payment of application fee based on the category
- Upload the required documents
- Click on the submit button
- Download and take a printout of the NID DAT application form 2026 for future reference.
NID DAT 2026 Full Study Material
Students preparing for NID 2026 can access this study material for both prelims and mains. Download now to strengthen your preparation and boost your chances of success.
Download EBookNID 2026 Fees
Category | NID form fees (BDes) | NID form fees (MDes) | |
1 Discipline | 2 Discipline | ||
General/ General- EWS/ OBC-NCL | Rs 3000 | Rs 3000 | Rs 6000 |
| Female candidates (except SC,ST,PwD) | Rs 2000 | Rs 2000 | Rs 4000 |
SC/ ST | Rs 1500 | Rs 1500 | Rs 3000 |
| PwD | Rs 500 | Rs 500 | Rs 1000 |
| Third gender | Rs 500 | Rs 500 | Rs 1000 |
Overseas (Supernumerary) | 125 USD | 125 USD | 250 USD |
NID DAT 2026 Syllabus
The authorities do not release any specific NID syllabus for the DAT exam. However, candidates appearing for the NID DAT 2026 can check the table below for important topics based on the previous year's sample paper.
NID Entrance Exam Syllabus BDes
Innovation in design | Theme development | Exercises on imagination | Graphics & pictograms |
Principles of composition | Design Theory | Optical illusion | Form & function |
Inspiration & design development | Natural & geometrical form | Colour, pattern & texture | Drawing fundamentals |
Lateral thinking | Design Awareness | Creative thinking & writing | Ornaments & motifs |
Imagination & doodling | Understanding light & shade | Elements & Principles of Design | Colour psychology & optical illusions |
3D visualization | Lettering | Developing observation | Good design vs. bad design |
Optical illusion | Outline for beginners | Memory drawing | Innovation & Creation |
Mood, theme & colour inter-relationship | Visual logic | Colour terminology | Presentation techniques |
Picture analysis | Story pictures | Usage of colour in compositions | Natural & geometrical form |
Use of measurements, scale & proportions | Expression & emotion | Developing themes & colour associations | Foreshortening & perspective |
Check:
NID DAT 2026 Exam Pattern
With the help of the NID DAT exam pattern 2026, candidates can understand the time allotted for each section, the number of questions asked, the types of questions, and the total marks. Refer to the table given below for a better understanding of the exam pattern.
NID DAT BDes Prelims
Section | Type of question | Number of Questions in each section | Maximum marks per section |
Part I | MCQ |
|
|
Part II | Subjective type | Q28 - Q31 | 60 marks |
Total Marks | 100 marks |
NID DAT BDes MAINS
Particular | Details |
Mode of exam | Offline |
Exam Duration | 3 hours |
NID DAT Total marks | 100 |
Mode of Language | English |
Type of questions | Based on Drawing/ Sketching/ Model Making |
Previous Year NID Question Paper
NID DAT 2026 will consist of two parts: Prelims and Mains exams. The NID DAT exam pattern for the prelims and the mains exam varies. As per the previous year, the NID DAT question paper for the Prelims exam includes subjective and objective type questions and the Mains exam consists of questions based on drawing, sketching, and model making.
NID B.Des Question Paper with Solution PDF by Silica Institute
NID 2026 Preparation Tips
- Attempt previous year NID question papers
- Understand the syllabus and exam pattern
- Create a study schedule and stick to the routine
- Focus on maintaining speed and accuracy at the same time
- Boost your creativity and observation skills
NID DAT 2026 Books for Preparation
Aspirants who are going to appear for the NID 2026 exam are advised to check the list of recommended books for the entrance exam. With the help of the NID books, candidates can get a detailed explanation of topics and also the list of important topics.
Best Books for NID DAT 2026
NID DAT book by R.S. Aggarwal (aptitude section) | Design drawing by Francis D.K.Ching | NID (B.Des.) Entrance Books and Test Series |
NID Workbook | Basic Rendering from Robert W.Gill | Guide for NID |
NID Mock Test Series | Success Master- NID Entrance Examination | NIFT/ NID/ IIFT entrance exam guide by Surendra |
Also Check:
NID DAT 2026 Admit Card
The institute will release the NID DAT admit card 2026 on December 11, 2025 for NID prelims. Candidates who are shortlisted for NID DAT 2026 mains will be issued the NID DAT 2026 mains admit card separately. The NID admit card is issued online. Candidates can download the admit card through their login.
Steps to Download the NID Admit Card 2026
- Visit the official website - admissions.nid.edu
- Click on the NID DAT admit card link
- Enter the login credentials
- Click on the 'Proceed to download admit card' button.
- The NID DAT admit card 2026 will appear on the screen.
- Download the admit card and take a printout
NID DAT 2026 Answer Key
NID officially will not release the NID DAT answer key 2026. However, the unofficial answer key will be released by the coaching institute for the candidates sake as per the memory-based questions. Candidates will be able to download the answer key online as per its release.
NID DAT 2026 Result
The NID DAT 2026 result will be declared online. First, the institute will declare the NID DAT prelims result 2026. The NID B.Des prelims 2026 result will be declared on April 17, 2026. The NID M.Des prelims result 2026 will be declared on February 17, 2026. Candidates who are shortlisted in the prelims will be called to attend the NID DAT 2026 mains in the ratio of 1.5 candidates for each available seat. The final NID DAT result 2026 will be prepared based on the scores of the candidates in the mains exam.
Steps to Download the NID Result 2026
Candidates can download the result of NID DAT 2026 by following the steps given below
- Visit the official website - admissions.nid.edu
- Click on the NID DAT Result link
- Login with email id and date of birth
- NID DAT 2026 result will be displayed on the screen
- Download and take a printout of the result for future reference
NID Selection Process (Revised Weightage)
The tables given below provide the revised weightage for NID prelims and mains for final admission into B.Des and M.Des programmes.
NID B.Des 2026 Revised Weightage
Particulars | Revised Weightage in Final Selection |
Prelims | Nil |
Mains | Studio sensitivity test - 60% In-person sensitivity test - 40% |
NID M.Des 2026 Revised Weightage
Particulars | Revised Weightage in Final Selection |
Prelims | Nil |
Mains | Studio test - 40% Interview - 60% |
NID DAT 2026 Counselling
The full NID DAT counselling 2026 schedule will be released online. Candidates to visit the official website - admissions.nid.edu for the counselling dates. The NID DAT 2026 counselling will be held in May tentatively. The NID DAT 2026 seat allotment will be done based on the campus and course preferences opted by the students during the counselling registration process. The authorities will also release the NID DAT cutoff 2026 as per each counselling round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When will the authorities release the NID DAT 2026 dates?
A:
The authorities have notified the NID DAT dates for BDes and MDes at admissions.nid.edu on September 11, 2025.
Q: when is NID entrance exam 2026?
A:
The NID 2026 prelims exam for B.Des and M.Des will be held tentatively on December 21, 2025.
Q: What is the NID DAT exam duration?
A:
The NID DAT exam duration is 3 hours.
Q: What is the age limit criteria for the BDes programme?
A:
The limit criteria for the BDes programme are as follows:
For Indian Nationals in General Category and General EWS Category: Candidates born on or after 1 July 2005.
For Indian Nationals in Reserved Category (Other Backward Class-Non Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL), Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST): Candidates born on or after 1 July 2002.
For Indian Nationals in PwD Reserved Category: Candidates born on or after 1 July 2000.
For Foreign Nationals in Overseas (Supernumerary) Category: Candidates born on or after 1 July 2005.
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Questions related to NID DAT
On Question asked by student community
Have a question related to NID DAT ?
Hi daksh
As 563 rank in nid dat exam cannot guarantee admission in designing college but it could be a good chance to explore some campus as if you are not from general category as category role plays an important role . But now you can do one thing focus on your strengthening your protofile or preparing for the studio test (bdes) or interview (mdes).
Thanks.
No, IPU (Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University) does not accept NID DAT Prelims score for admission to the B.Des (Bachelor of Design) program.
Instead, IPU conducts its own entrance test or may consider CUET (UG) scores for B.Des admissions, depending on the latest admission guidelines. Always refer to the university's official prospectus for the year you're applying to for the final admission criteria.
NIT DAT (https://www.shiksha.com/design/articles/nid-admissions-2025-colleges-accepting-nid-entrance-exam-scores-for-bdes-mdes-courses-blogId-13097)
Hello,
Yes, it's possible to prepare for the NID DAT 2025 exam on your own, even with limited time, by following these steps:
- Understand the Syllabus : Focus on key areas like design principles, creativity, visualization, and observation skills.
- Solve Previous Papers : Practice with past NID DAT papers to understand question types and patterns.
- Time Management : Dedicate daily hours to sketching, problem-solving, and revision.
- Strengthen Drawing Skills : Practice daily to improve speed and accuracy.
- Use Online Resources : Utilize free tutorials, sample papers, and design blogs.
- 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 !
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