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NID DAT 2026 Selection Process: Prelims & Mains Weightage (Revised), Tie-Breaker Rules, Counselling
Ongoing Event
NID DAT Application Date:11 Sep' 25 - 01 Dec' 25
The National Institute of Design (NID) has notified the details of the revised NID DAT 2026 selection process on its official website - admissions.nid.edu through the information handbook. The NID 2026 selection process requires the candidates to appear for the NID DAT entrance exam. Candidates have to appear for both components of NID 2026 - the NID DAT prelims and then the NID DAT mains for shortlisted candidates. The final selection in NID 2026 will be done based on the performance in mains exam as per the prescribed weightage.
This Story also Contains
- NID 2026 Selection Criteria: Exam-Wise Weightage
- NID DAT Selection Process 2026
- Tie Breaker in NID 2026 B.Des Selection Process
- NID Selection Process for M.Des - Tie Breaker Rule
- NID DAT Counselling 2026
The NID DAT exam is one of the most popular design entrance exams. The National Institute of Design conducts the NID DAT every year to select the best students across India. It offers both undergraduate and post-graduate courses. The NID 2026 admissions will be done through NID DAT counselling process conducted in multiple rounds.
NID 2026 Selection Criteria: Exam-Wise Weightage
The weightage of NID DAT Prelims and Mains is listed in the table below.
NID BDes Weightage (Revised)
NID DAT Exam | Weightage |
|---|---|
NID DAT Prelims | No weightage in final result (only qualifying exam) |
NID DAT Mains | Studio Sensitivity test - 60% In-person sensitivity test - 40% |
NID MDes Weightage (Revised)
NID DAT Exam | Weightage |
|---|---|
NID DAT Prelims | No weightage in the final result (only qualifying exam) |
NID DAT Mains Studio Test | 40% |
NID DAT Mains Personal Interview | 60% |
NID DAT Selection Process 2026
The Bachelor of Design Course is available across NID Ahmedabad, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam campus. However, Master of Design Course is offered in the NID Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Bangalore campuses only. For the NID selection process, students have to appear for the NID DAT exam.
NID Prelims Entrance Exam
The NID DAT Prelims is a pen and paper-based exam which is conducted through textual and visual-based questions. The exam is conducted on the same day across all the centres in India. The students appearing for the NID DAT exam must download the NID DAT admit card carry a printout for the exam.
NID Prelims Result & Merit List
A merit list of shortlisted candidates is prepared for each category based on the score obtained in the NID DAT prelims. The NID prelims is only a qualifying exam. The marks will not be carried forward to the next level. The shortlisted candidates have to then appear in the NID DAT mains exam, as per the schedule announced by NID.
NID Mains Entrance Exam
The DAT Mains exam is only for the students who are shortlisted in the DAT Prelims exam. The DAT mains exam for MDes consists of a Studio test and interview. The total marks of the student is calculated based on the weightage of the exams. The studio test has exams of different formats and is conducted only in the English language. The interviews are conducted separately for each discipline in the centre of the Studio test itself.
Tie Breaker in NID 2026 B.Des Selection Process
The tie-breaker rule for NID DAT 2026 will be announced later. Till last year, in case two or more candidates have same marks in the NID DAT Prelims exam, the following steps are taken to do a tie breaker
The higher rank will be given to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Part B of the DAT Prelims.
If this does not break the tie, higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Part A of the DAT Prelims.
If this still does not break the tie, then both the candidates will be assigned the same rank.
Similarly, during the NID selection process for BDes Mains Exam the following rules will be applied to break the tie.
A higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Mains.
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Stage 1 Design Aptitude Test.
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Stage 1 Design Aptitude Test Part B.
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Stage 1 Design Aptitude Test Part A.
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 EBookSee Also:
NID Selection Process for M.Des - Tie Breaker Rule
When two or more candidates scored the same in the Prelims exam of the NID DAT exam the following steps were taken to break the tie:
The student will be given higher rank who has obtained higher marks in DAT Prelims (Part 2 or 3)
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Prelims (Part 1).
If this still does not break the tie, then both candidates will be assigned the same rank.
The candidates having a tie in the NID DAT Mains exam need to know that the tie-breaker is done through the following.
The higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Mains.
If this does not break the tie, higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Mains - Studio Test.
If this does not break the tie, higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Prelims.
If this still does not break the tie, then the same rank will be assigned to the candidates.
NID DAT Counselling 2026
Finally, aspirants who have qualified for both Prelims and Mains are required to participate in the NID counselling 2026 process. Based on the marks obtained, aspirants will be allotted a seat in the NID campuses in India. The counselling process is conducted in multiple rounds of seat allotment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the process of getting into NID?
A:
Candidates need to appear for the NID DAT entrance exam and qualify the prelims and mains to get into NID.
Q: What is the qualification for NID?
A:
The students must have passed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognised board.
Q: Is NID private or government?
A:
NID is a central government institute.
Q: How many rounds are there in NID?
A:
NID DAT has two rounds: NID DAT Prelims and NID DAT Mains.
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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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