NID Syllabus 2025 (Prelims & Mains), NID BDes & M.Des Syllabus PDF, Important Topics

NID Syllabus 2025 (Prelims & Mains), NID BDes & M.Des Syllabus PDF, Important Topics

Team Careers360Updated on 02 May 2025, 09:57 AM IST

Candidates can check NID syllabus 2025 high-weightage topics list in this article. NID 2025 syllabus important topics are based on the experts’ analysis and the previous year's question papers. The NID DAT syllabus 2025 has not been formally published by the National Institute of Design (NID). NID 2025 syllabus is inferred from the previous year's NID DAT exam papers. The NID 2025 syllabus for DAT covers a wide range of topics and is divided into two stages: Prelims and Mains. Students appearing for the NID DAT 2025 exam should prepare for topics such as image processing and visualisation, reflection and distortion of images, and shape construction.

This Story also Contains

  1. NID DAT Syllabus 2025: An Overview
  2. NID 2025 Syllabus for DAT
  3. NID DAT 2025 Syllabus for B.Des Programme
  4. NID Non-Verbal Reasoning Syllabus 2025
  5. NID Analytical & Logical Reasoning Syllabus 2025
  6. NID Numerical Ability Syllabus 2025
  7. NID GK Syllabus 2025
  8. NID DAT Syllabus 2025 for Miscellaneous Biology/Physics Questions
  9. NID Mains Syllabus 2025 for B.Des Admission
  10. NID DAT 2025 Prelims Syllabus for M.Des Admission
  11. NID DAT Mains Syllabus for MDes studio test
  12. NID DAT Exam Pattern 2025
  13. NID DAT 2025 Mains Exam Pattern for M.Des
NID Syllabus 2025 (Prelims & Mains), NID BDes & M.Des Syllabus PDF, Important Topics
NID DAT Syllabus

NID DAT Syllabus 2025: An Overview

The NID DAT Prelims phase involves a written test conducted on paper, while the NID DAT Mains phase consists of a studio test and a personal interview. The NID exam syllabus differs for these two phases, Prelims and Mains. Understanding the NID exam 2025 syllabus for DAT is crucial for candidates as they prepare for the entrance exam. The NID DAT (Prelims) was held on January 5 and B.Des mains will be held on May 3. This article on the NID entrance exam syllabus for DAT 2025 provides detailed information on topics for each section, the marking scheme, and more. It’s a valuable resource for those aiming to excel in the exam.

The NID DAT Prelims syllabus 2025 is designed to acquaint candidates with the subject matter of the questions that will be posed in the NID DAT entrance examination. The duration of the NID DAT exam was 3 hours. Candidates who pass the NID DAT prelims will be required to take the NID DAT Mains exams. The students must be well acquainted with the NID DAT Prelims syllabus to pass the exam with a good score. The most common topics for the NID DAT Prelims syllabus have been noted down.

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Particulars

Details

NID DAT Full Form

NID Design Aptitude Test

Conducting Body

National Institute of Design

Frequency of Conduct

Once a year

Exam Level

National Level Exam

Languages

English

NID DAT registration fee 2025

3000 Rs [Online]

Mode of Exam

Offline

Participating Colleges

7

Exam Duration

3 Hours

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 EBook

NID 2025 Syllabus for DAT

To gain a through understanding of the examination pattern and question types, it is strongly advised to practice with previous years’ NID DAT question papers. This will offer insights into the importance of various topics, the level of difficulty of the questions, and any particular trends. The NID exam syllabus details may differ for B.Des and M.Des programs. Hence, candidates are recommended to refer to the specific syllabus for their selected program.

NID DAT 2025 Syllabus for B.Des Programme

Understanding the NID entrance exam BDes syllabus helps the students to score well. Candidates can check the important topics of NID DAT prelims syllabus 2025 for B.Des programme from the table below.

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

Inspiration & Creativity

NID Non-Verbal Reasoning Syllabus 2025

Based on the expert’s analysis and previous year question papers, candidates can check the NID entrance exam syllabus for Non-Verbal Reasoning.

NID Syllabus Important Topics for Image Processing/Image Processing and Visualisation

  • Visual Series Completion (Image Identification)
  • Analytical Reasoning (Image based), Type & Fonts, Embedded Figures
  • Grouping of Images(Analysis, Conclusion, Relationship among given pictures)
  • "Analogy (Visualisation and Interconnection Between Two Images)"
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NID Exam Syllabus Important Topics for Form-Based/ Understanding of Shapes/Forms

  • Cubes/ Dice and Arrangement ( Form Understanding, Positioning & Spatial Visualisation)
  • Water Image (Reflection and Distortion of Image)
  • Patterns & Symbol Coding/Decoding

NID Syllabus Topics for Remaining Chapters

  • Paper Folding /Unfolding, Paper Cutting and Unfolding
  • Mirror Image-Based (Understanding of Alphabets, Shapes & Imagination Based)
  • Shapes Construction ( Shape Visualisation, Geometric, Organic & Abstract Images)

NID Analytical & Logical Reasoning Syllabus 2025

NID entrance exam syllabus topics for the analytical and logical reasoning section are mentioned below.

NID DAT Syllabus 2025 Important Topics for Statement or Diagram Based

  • Venn Diagrams/ Syllogism
  • Sitting Arrangements/ Blood Relations
  • Distance & Direction

NID DAT Analytical & Reasoning Important Topics

  • Number and Alphabet series
  • Data Sufficiency/ Blood Relations/ Decision making
  • Coding-Decoding Operations

NID Numerical Ability Syllabus 2025

Below are some of the commonly asked topics from algebra and geometry.

NID Entrance Exam Syllabus Important Topics for Algebra

  • Percentage/ Ratio and Proportion/ time & Work/ Time & Distance
  • SI & CI, Profit & Loss
  • Others (Pipe and Cisterns/ Trains and Directions/ Clocks, Calendars)

NID Exam Syllabus Important Topics for Geometry

  • Fundamentals of Geometry
  • Area/Surface Area & Volume

NID GK Syllabus 2025

  • Art Movements: Indian Painters & Paintings, Painting Styles and Techniques, Top 50 paintings, Indian Traditional Painting styles, "
  • Colour Theory (Colour Wheel, Primary Secondary & Tertiary Colours) *
  • Basics of Photography, Practical Application and Limitation

NID DAT Syllabus 2025 for Miscellaneous Biology/Physics Questions

  • Walk & Run cycles of Different Animals/Humans
  • Fundamentals of Civics & Like Fundamental/Rights & Duties
  • Anatomy of Insects/Animals/ Humans (e.g. Wings of A dragonfly asked in 2024)
  • Concepts of Simple Machines ( Lever /Wheel & Axle, Plane and Inclination, pulley, Wheel & Screw)

NID Mains Syllabus 2025 for B.Des Admission

Candidates who qualify the NID prelims should get to know the NID Mains syllabus for DAT. The NID Mains is the next step for getting into design colleges through NID. Understanding the NID entrance exam syllabus 2025 is the main key to cracking the NID exam. As they prepare for the NID studio test or the NID DAT Mains 2025 exam, candidates can focus on the topics they need to study.

NID Mains Syllabus for DAT 2025

Model making

Questions generally asked in an interview

Audio-visual exercises

Evolving ideas

Past studio test & interview questions

Interview tips

Material manipulationDoodling
Creative thinking

Mock interview

Importance of body language

Guidance on portfolio-making


NID Syllabus 2025 Studio Test for B.Des Admission

Candidates should focus on the necessary topics while getting ready for the NID studio test. Here are the topics:

NID DAT Studio Test Syllabus for B.Des Programme

Model Making

Doodling

How to Evolve Ideas

Audio – Visual Exercises

Material Manipulation

Creative Thinking

NID DAT 2025 Prelims Syllabus for M.Des Admission

Candidates, for the NID DAT Prelims for the M.Des course, can refer to the following table for the subjects they need to focus on. This table will guide them in their study plan, helping them prioritise and organise their preparation effectively. Remember, understanding these topics thoroughly can significantly enhance your performance in the exam

NID M.Des Syllabus 2025 for prelims exam

Design Outline for Beginners

Colour Terminology

Inspiration & Design Development

Mood, Theme & Colour Inter-relationship

Design Theory

Elements & Principles Of Design

Natural & Geometrical Form

Innovation in Design

Principles of Composition

Lettering

Optical Illusion

Understanding Light & Shade

Colour Psychology & Optical Illusions

Form & Function

Colour, Pattern & Texture

Theme Development

Creative Thinking & Writing

Picture Analysis

Visual Logic

Good Design vs Bad Design

Drawing Fundamentals

Use of Measurements, Scale & proportions

Optical Illusion

Foreshortening & Perspective

Developing Themes & Colour Associations

Inspiration & Creativity

Ornaments & Motifs

Memory Drawing

Usage of Colour in Compositions

Expression & Emotion

Exercises on Imagination

Lateral Thinking

Story Pictures

Presentation Techniques

Imagination & Doodling

3D Visualisation

Graphics & Pictograms

Innovation & Creation

Design Awareness

Developing Observation

These are some of the important topics for the NID DAT 2024 syllabus for the M.Des course.

NID DAT Mains Syllabus for MDes studio test

For those interested in the MDes course, the table below outlines the crucial topics that form part of the NID Mains syllabus for DAT 2025 studio test. This comprehensive list of topics will serve as a valuable resource for your preparation, helping you understand the breadth and depth of the subject matter that you need to cover.

NID DAT MDes Mains Syllabus for studio Test

Important Topics for NID Studio Test - M.Des

Model Making

Doodling

How to evolve ideas

Audio – Visual Exercises

Material Manipulation

Creative Thinking

NID DAT Exam Pattern 2025

The NID DAT exam pattern is structured into two stages: Prelims and Mains. The Prelims stage is designed to test candidates’ knowledge, skills, and behavioral capabilities. The Mains stage, on the other hand, includes a Studio Test. Candidates who perform well in this test are then shortlisted for a personal interview. However, it’s important to note that the selection for the Mains stage is based on the performance in the Prelims stage. This comprehensive exam pattern thoroughly evaluates all aspects of a candidate’s design aptitude. Candidates can check the detailed NID DAT 2025 exam pattern for B.Des from the below table:

NID DAT 2024 Exam Pattern

Particulars

Type of questions

Maximum marks per section

NID DAT BDes Prelims (40%)

Part I - MCQ

Part I - 40 marks

Part II - Subjective type

Part II - 60 marks

NID DAT BDes Mains (60%)

Based on Drawing/ Sketching/ Model Making

100 marks

NID DAT 2025 Mains Exam Pattern for M.Des

The NID DAT MDes exam has two stages: Prelims and Mains. Prelims consist of a Common Design Aptitude Test (CDAT) and a discipline-specific test. The duration is 2.5 hours for one discipline and 4.5 hours for two disciplines. Mains include a Studio Test and an Interview. Candidates also need to submit a Statement of Purpose (SoP) of a maximum of 100 words per question in a PDF file of size not more than 2MB.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the NID 2025 syllabus for DAT?
A:

The authorities do not release any specific NID 2025 syllabus for the DAT exam. However, there are certain topics that aspirants should cover during their preparation.

Q: Where can I find the NID DAT 2025 syllabus?
A:

Aspirants can refer to previous year NID sample papers to get an idea of the topics that are asked in the NID DAT exam.

Q: Are there any preparation tips for the NID DAT 2025 exam?
A:

Yes, candidates can check tips and tricks to crack NID DAT 2025 along with the syllabus, exam pattern, and best books.

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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:

  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 !