NID Studio Test 2026: Dates, Pattern, Preparation Tips, Books, Questions

NID Studio Test 2026: Dates, Pattern, Preparation Tips, Books, Questions

Ongoing Event

NID DAT Application Date:11 Sep' 25 - 01 Dec' 25

Rajyalaxmi VenkatapuramUpdated on 10 Sep 2025, 02:34 PM IST

The National Institute of Design (NID) conducts the NID DAT Mains for its UG and PG programmes. NID DAT Mains is the second stage of evaluating the candidates for design admission. NID DAT Mains comprises of Studio test and interview. The students who have cleared the first stage of NID DAT entrance exam for Prelims are only eligible for NID 2026 mains studio test. NID studio test 2026 will be conducted on separate dates for BDes and MDes programmes. NID DAT 2026 studio test is conducted to evaluate the candidate's skills, creativity, understanding levels, and sensitivity. The NID Mains exam dates (tentative) for the studio test are provided in detail in this page based on the previous year trends. Read the complete article to know more about NID studio test 2026 dates.

This Story also Contains

  1. NID Studio Test Dates 2026
  2. NID 2026 Studio Test - Overview
  3. How to download NID 2026 Mains admit card?
  4. Preparation for NID 2026 Studio Test
  5. NID Studio Test Questions
  6. NID Studio Test 2026 - Preparation Tips
  7. NID DAT Studio Test 2026 Preparation Books
  8. NID 2026 Portfolio and Interview Admissions
NID Studio Test 2026: Dates, Pattern, Preparation Tips, Books, Questions
NID Studio Test

NID Studio Test Dates 2026

Aspirants need to know that the NID 2026 Studio test will be conducted separately for BDes and MDes students. NID studio test 2026 will be conducted for the BDes students tentatively in May. NID DAT MDes studio test dates will be from March to April 2026. Candidates can check the NID studio test dates 2026 in detail in the table below.

NID DAT Mains Exam Date 2026 for BDes

Events

NID Dates 2026 (tentative)

NID DAT Mains admit card release date

Second week of April 2026

NID DAT Mains exam date

First week of May 2026

NID Mains result date

Third week of May 2026

Campus preference submission dates

Third week of May 2026

Request dates for rechecking of NID DAT Mains

Third week of May 2026

NID BDes seat allotment, token fee payment and document upload date
Last week of May 2026
NID DAT BDes provisional offer letterSecond week of June 2026
NID DAT BDes payment of remaining semester fees
From second week of June 2026
Subsequent round of seat allotment
To be announced later

NID DAT Mains Exam Date 2026 for MDes

Events

NID 2026 Dates (tentative)

NID DAT Mains admit card release date

Third/Fourth week of February 2026

NID DAT Mains exam date

March to April 2026

NID result for Mains

First week of May 2026

Request dates for rechecking of NID DAT Mains

First week of May 2026

NID MDes seat allotment, token fee payment and document upload date

First week of May 2026

NID DAT MDes provisional offer letterThird week of May 2026
NID DAT MDes payment of remaining semester feesMay 2026
Subsequent round of seat allotmentTo be announced later

NID 2026 Studio Test - Overview

National Institute of Design is one of the most reputable exams that provide admissions to the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes based on the Design Aptitude Test called DAT. In short, it is called NID DAT 2026. NID offers various specialisations under Bachelor of Design (BDes) and Master of Design (MDes) courses.

NID provides admissions to its courses based on the stages of the entrance exam. The 2 stages are NID Prelims and NID Mains. The shortlisted candidates from NID Prelims exam will only be eligible to appear for NID Mains. NID Mains exam comprises NID studio test and interview.

The NID Studio test included questions on specific topics like drawing and sketching, making of a model, group discussions, and presentations. Candidates need to check the NID interview questions for the NID studio test 2025.

NID Studio Test 2026 is the final stage of the admissions process at NID, where the candidates have to showcase their portfolios and appear for a personal interview. The NID 2026 studio test dates are provided above in the table according to the NID schedule. The NID Studio Test syllabus 2026 is based on the specialisation and may vary accordingly.

How to select the test centre for NID studio test 2026?

The authorities will release an interface for the aspirants to select the NID DAT 2026 Mains test centre. The NID 2026 studio test centre selection portal for BDes will be opened tentatively in April. All the updates will be through the official website only. Candidates to follow the below steps to select the NID studio test centre 2026.

  • Visit the NID website - admissions.nid.edu.
  • Use login credentials and login to the interface.
  • Select the preferred NID DAT Mains 2026 test centre.
  • Submit the selected preference of the test centre.
Bennett University B.Design Admissions 2025

Merit Based Scholarships Available

Sanskriti University B.Des Admissions 2025

Best innovation and research-driven university of Uttar Pradesh

Note: The exact timings of the NID studio test and the test centre details will be communicated to the candidate through the NID Mains admit card.

NID Studio Test: Seating capacity at each centre for BDes

Candidates can find the seating capacity at each of test centre as per the previous year to have an idea. However, the NID authorities will release the NID 2026 seating capacity as per the schedule.

Test centre city

Seating capacity

Ahmedabad

533

Bengaluru

300

Andhra Pradesh

300

Haryana

450

Madhya Pradesh

200

Jorhat120

How to download NID 2026 Mains admit card?

The authorities will release the NID mains admit card 2026 for MDes & BDes online at the official website. The candidates have to download the NID DAT 2026 Mains admit card accordingly.

Steps to download the NID 2026 Mains admit card are as follows.

  • Visit NID website - admissions.nid.edu.
  • Click on ‘NID Mains admit card’ link.
  • Login using the login credentials: email ID and password.
  • Upon successful login, the NID studio test admit card will be displayed on the screen.
  • Download the same and take a printout for further use.
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

Preparation for NID 2026 Studio Test

The candidates who will appear for the NID DAT Mains studio test 2026, must prepare themselves to ace the exam smoothly. Aspirants to check the NID studio test sample papers pdf to get an idea about the paper pattern. The questions may not be the same. However, the candidates will get a clear picture of what type of questions will be asked and how to answer them in the specified time.

Check Design Colleges:

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Hindustan University B.Des Admissions 2025

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NID Studio Test Questions

NID studio test previous year questions allow aspirants to gather more information about what to ask in the interview process. Candidates can also refer to some of the NID studio test previous year questions and answers for practice and guidance. These questions and answers can help you understand the pattern and difficulty level of the NID studio test 2026.

Question 1: Doodle Exercise - 12 boxes are given (4 on each sheet). Fill in the lines in the given boxes and do what you think. You can turn the box to any side. It would be great if you could give your sketch a title.

Question 2: Design a Playful Toy (No use of adhesive) with the following materials:

  • Bamboo Sticks - 12
  • Ping Pong balls - 3
  • Coloured OHP sheet - 2
  • Bangles - a set of 6
  • Wool - 1m

(Write about your model)

Question 3: Make an object using the following material:

  • Hacksaw blade
  • Clay
  • Sponge
  • Water

The material should be appropriate for the given setting. Given is an image of a corporate house building with a desk, a chair, a laptop, and a background.

Question 4: Audio Visual Test

Visual Test:

  • Images of certain items such as fan brooms and shoelaces, were shown and identified.
  • Pictures were shown and structures such as wire cages, walls, and soil were to be identified.

Audio Test:

  • Sound clippings were played and we had to identify clapping, coins, machines, etc.
  • Audio clippings like wolf howling, elephants, etc. on a moonlit night were played and the source had to be identified.

Also Read:

NID Studio Test 2026 - Preparation Tips

Here are some of the tips mentioned below to prepare for the NID studio test.

  • Check and go through the syllabus of the NID DAT studio test and prepare a list of the topics.

  • Ensure that you become familiar with the NID DAT exam pattern for the studio test. Read and understand the type of questions that were asked in the exam.

  • Prepare a detailed plan of study as per the number of days available to cover the complete syllabus.

  • Focus on all the important topics first and study the remaining as per the time availability.

  • Strictly follow the timetable prepared and follow it.

Click for Top Design Entrance Exams


The tasks included in the NID Studio test are as follows.

  • 3-D Model Making (NID situation test question)

  • Clay Modelling

  • Doodling Exercise

  • Psychometric Test

  • Wire Moulding

  • Illustration of the story

  • Thematic Apperception

  • Personal Interview

  • Attempt all the questions and complete the given task.

  • Implement the work that you excel at and implement in your questions.

  • Feel comfortable and explore as many creations as possible.

  • Think out-of-the-box for creativity.

  • Practice making different models using the materials such as wire, thermocol, plastic, rubber sheet, fabric, paper, wool, clay, needles and threads, plaster of Paris, hardboard, and foils, etc.

  • complete the given tasks within the limited time allocated.

  • Maintain cleanliness while working with different types of materials for making models. The examiners also mark the candidate’s poise and attitude towards their working style.

  • Try to attempt and resolve the NID studio test previous questions papers.

  • Practise mock tests if possible.

  • In the NID studio test, some audio-visual tests will be conducted to examine the candidate’s observation skills. This includes observation about the objects, usage of culture, and the environment.

Also Check:

NID DAT Studio Test 2026 Preparation Books

Book Names

Author/Publisher

Creative Confidence

Tom Kelley and David Kelley

100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)

Weinschenk Susan

Universal Principles of Design

William Lidwell

Emotional Design: Why We Love (or Hate) Everyday Things

Don Norman

The Design of Everyday Things

Don Norman

Don’t make me think

Steve Krug

NID 2026 Portfolio and Interview Admissions

The authorities will conduct the NID portfolio presentations and personal interview rounds separately for each of the specialisations. These interviews will be followed along with the NID Studio Test at an appropriate test centre venue. This session of interview will be conducted to assess the candidate’s knowledge and interest in the field of design. The panel members of NID will interview the candidates based on their communication skills, professional attire and focus, and their intellectual ability.

NOTE: The candidates should bring their portfolio that includes their original artwork, creative writings, 3D model portraits and posters, and graphic art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is eligible to appear for NID DAT Mains 2026 Studio Test?
A:

Candidates who qualify in the NID DAT Prelims exam will be eligible to appear in the DAT Mains exam. NID DAT Mains for the BDes course includes a studio test, whereas the DAT Mains for MDes course includes studio test and interview.

Q: When will the authorities conduct the NID DAT studio test 2026?
A:

The NID DAT 2025 studio test dates for BDes and MDes are yet to be announced.

Q: What happens in a NID studio test?
A:

NID studio test includes the tasks of clay modelling, story illustrations, 3D model making, doodling exercises, wire moulding, psychometric test, and thematic appreciation, etc. 

Q: When is NID studio test?
A:

The NID studio test 2026 for BDes and MDes will be on different dates. The schedule will be released by the NID authorities as per the events.

Q: When will the NID DAT 2026 final results be declared?
A:

NID DAT final result date 2026 for BDes and MDes will be tentatively in May.

Q: What is a NID studio test?
A:

NID studio test is a hands-on test for the students who clear their NID DAT entrance examination (Prelims).

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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 !