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NID Exam Pattern 2026 (Prelims & Mains), Marking Scheme, Negative Marking, total marks, No. of Questions
Edited By Ankitha Tunk | Updated on Jun 13, 2025 06:16 PM IST | #NID DAT
The National Institute of Design (NID) will release the NID exam pattern 2026 at the official website- admissions.nid.edu. Candidates will be able to access details on total marks, marking scheme, section-wise questions, number of questions and more through NID 2026 paper pattern.
The NID DAT 2026 prelims exam will be conducted as a pen-and-paper-based test. Moreover, NID total marks will be 100. Aspirants who wish to know if there is negative marking in NID should note that there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. Read the complete article for NID exam pattern 2026 pdf that includes the marking scheme, total marks, number and questions, and more.
This Story also Contains
- NID Exam Pattern - Highlights
- NID DAT Exam Pattern 2026
- NID DAT Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
- NID Prelims Exam Pattern - Types & Number of Questions
- NID DAT Mains Exam Pattern 2026
- Weightage and Marking Scheme for NID DAT 2026
NID Exam Pattern - Highlights
The NID exam pattern 2026 Prelims & Mains is designed to evaluate the candidate's ability in solving the design aptitude questions, drawing and observation skills. Candidates who are preparing for the NID 2026 entrance exam need to familiarise them with the NID exam pattern 2026. Candidates can check the below points to understand the NID exam pattern.
- DAT Prelims 2026 is a mix of (Multiple Choice Questions) and Reasoning (drawing and descriptive) and questions based on Logical Deductions.
- NID part A consists of 19 questions, while part B will have 5 questions.
NID DAT Exam Pattern 2026
The overall structure of the exam will be specified in the NID 2026 exam pattern. NID exam pattern for DAT will consist of two stages: DAT prelims and DAT mains. The NID B.des and NID M.Des exam pattern will include both these exams. The NID 2026 prelims exam will test the students' knowledge, skills, and behavioural abilities through objective and subjective questions. The NID exam syllabus topics covered in the NID prelims question paper will be design aptitude, creativity and visualisation.
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Try NowNID mains question paper for DAT 2026 exam will include a studio test, where students will be required to showcase their design skills. Students must familiarise themselves with the NID DAT 2026 syllabus to understand the NID exam pattern 2026 and prepare well for the NID DAT exam.
Candidates who will qualify the NID DAT prelims will be eligible to take the DAT mains exam. Candidates who will clear both NID DAT prelims and NID DAT mains will get a chance to participate in a personal interview. Utilising the NID DAT prelims sample paper will provide insights for exam patterns. Candidates can check the NID exam pattern 2026 as per NID DAT sample paper from the table below:
The NID DAT entrance exam typically consists of two stages: prelims and mains.
NID Entrance Exam Pattern
Stages | Brief Description |
Prelims (The First Stage) |
|
Mains (The Second Stage) |
|
NID DAT Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates interested in appearing for the NID DAT exam need to know the NID DAT exam pattern prelims to crack the exam. NID DAT exam pattern 2026 prelims consists of two sections such as objective type of questions and subjective type of questions. The NID B.Des prelims paper pattern evaluates the candidates aptitude for design, observation, creativity, and communication skills. Aspirants can check NID exam duration for the studio test through DAT admit card 2026. As per NID DAT exam pattern of previous year, the details of NID exam pattern prelims of DAT two sections are given below:
NID DAT BDes Prelims
Sections | Number of questions | Total Marks |
Part A | 19 | 25 |
Part B | 5 | 75 |
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NID Exam Pattern 2026 Prelims: Section-Wise Analysis
Understanding the NID exam pattern 2026 syllabus for Prelims is very important part of the exam preparation. Practicing the NID DAT Prelims sample paper can be beneficial for the students. The table below gives the students most important portions of the NID Exam Pattern 2026 Prelims which they should not miss.
NID Prelims Exam Pattern - Types & Number of Questions
Total Question in each section and marks Allotted | Number of topics | Questions Asked From |
Part 1 | ||
1 mark (15 questions) | General Knowledge And Current Affairs |
|
Analytical Ability |
| |
2 Marks (11 questions) | ||
English | Design related passage based question | |
3 marks (1 question ) | Text and Visual representation | Visual and test based questions |
Part 2 | ||
15 marks (4 questions) | Design Aptitude Test | |
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NID DAT Mains Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates seeking admission at NIDs need to clear both prelims and mains exam. To appear in the NID DAT mains exam candidates need to first clear the NID DAT prelims exam. There is no strict NID exam syllabus for Mains to follow, but the candidates need to be creative and good in sketching and crafts. DAT 2026 mains exam will be held in offline mode at NID campuses such as NID Ahmedabad, NID Gandhinagar, and NID Bengaluru. Following the studio test, candidates need to appear for a personal interview at the allotted campus.
NID DAT BDes MAINS (60%)
Particulars | Details |
Mode of exam | Offline |
Total marks of NID DAT | 100 |
Duration of Marks | 3 hours |
Mode of Language | English |
Type of questions | Based on Sketching/Drawing/ Model Making. |
Also Read: NID Exam is For What Purpose
NID Dat Exam Pattern Mains: Section-Wise Analysis
NID DAT B.Des Mains exam comprises multiple formats such as studio setup. The NID DAT question paper will be English language only and candidates will be evaluated on Drawing/ Sketching/ Model making based questions.
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Weightage and Marking Scheme for NID DAT 2026
As per the NID DAT exam pattern, the NID prelims and mains weightage of B.Des and M.Des will be different. The weightage of NID DAT 2026 for B.Des prelims will be 40% and for mains will be 60%. The NID DAT M.Des weightage for prelims will be 30% and mains will be 70%, whereas studio test and interview will consist of 40% and 30% respectively. NID DAT prelims marking scheme will slightly vary every year. Candidates can refer to the previous year NID DAT sample papers for prelims to get an idea on NID marking scheme and exam pattern. NID DAT weightage will be 30:70.
NID Prelims and Mains Weightage for both B.Des and M.Des
Particulars | B.Des | M.Des | |
DAT prelims | 40% | 30 % | |
DAT Mains | 60% | Studio test - 40 % | Interview - 30% |
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Instructions for filling the OMR sheets for NID DAT 2026 Prelims
Students must keep in mind that the NID 2026 exam date and fill the application form before the application deadline. The students need to carry their exam admit card on the NID 2026 exam date and carefully read the instructions mentioned in it. Candidates need to be careful when filling the OMR sheets because they will be checked digitally. Here are the guidelines for filling out the OMR sheet.
Each multiple choice question will have four options. Candidates should use blue or black pen to fill the corresponding oval on the OMR sheet.
Only one oval should darken for each question. Marking more than one will be considered incorrect.
The correct method of darkening the oval will be found on the first page of the OMR answer sheet. Candidates must follow this procedure while filling out the ovals.
Candidates should not tear, mutilate, or bend the OMR answer sheet in any way.
You may also check:
- NIFT Syllabus
- UCEED Syllabus
- NID Syllabus
- CEED Syllabus
- NIFT Question Paper
- NID Question Paper
- UCEED Question Papers
Note: NID prelims and mains weightage 2026 is a crucial factor when determining the final selection process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. In which mode will the NID DAT prelims exam be conducted?
NID DAT 2026 prelims exam will be held in pen and paper mode.
2. How will I be evaluated in the NID Design Aptitude Test?
Candidates' assessments include understanding of concepts, analytical abilities, creativity, and how well they present their ideas.
3. Who prescribes the exam pattern of NID DAT 2026?
The National Institute of Design prescribes the NID exam pattern 2026 prelims and mains for DAT.
4. Is NID DAT tough?
With a well-planned exam approach and strategic preparation, candidates acing the NID DAT exam is entirely feasible.
5. What is the duration of the NID DAT entrance exam?
NID DAT 2026 exam duration will be three hours for both the prelims and the mains exam.
6. What is asked in the NID Design Aptitude Test?
The NID DAT comprises two stages: the Prelims and the Mains. DAT prelims involve a written examination with both objective and subjective sections. NID DAT Mains assess candidates through studio tests and personal interviews, focusing on their ability to handle materials and demonstrate creativity.
7. Does NID DAT have negative marking?
No, there is no negative marking in NID.
8. What are the total marks in NID exam?
The total marks in NID exam will be 100
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Questions related to NID DAT
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.
Sarishti bhagi 10 April,2025
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)
Rubina Naseer 04 April,2025
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 !
Prachi Kumari 23 October,2024
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.
Deepti Singh 07 October,2024
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 !
Prachi Kumari 11 August,2024
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