Subjective Part Dominates Design Entrance Exams: Why Revised NID Selection Process is Not Unexpected
Ongoing Event
NID DAT Application Date:11 Sep' 25 - 01 Dec' 25
The National Institute of Design revised the NID 2026 selection process recently. In the revised NID 2026 selection process, the NID DAT mains, which is the subjective component of the NID entrance exam, will have 100% weightage in the final selection of candidates. The NID DAT prelims, which earlier had 40% weightage in the final selection, has been reduced to a qualifying exam for the mains. On the surface, the change in NID DAT 2026 may look too drastic. However, an analysis of the selection process of other top design entrance exams suggests that the subjective component already has a proportionately heavy weight in the final selection criteria of these exams.
This Story also Contains
- What is the Subjective/Mains Part of Design Entrance Exams?
- Overview of the Change in NID DAT Selection Process
- Why is the Change in the NID Selection Process Not Unexpected?
- What it Means for Candidates Appearing for Design Entrance Exams?
In this article, let’s look at the weightage of the subjective part in the top design exams, such as NIFTEE, CEED, and UCEED, and understand why the change in the NID selection process is not unexpected.
What is the Subjective/Mains Part of Design Entrance Exams?
The subjective or the main part of the top design entrance exam evaluates a wide range of skills among candidates, which include their creativity, drawing skills, observation skills, visualisation, and practical task handling skills.
Often, candidates are required to attend a studio test where they may be required to complete a task with the provided material, or they may be required to draw and explain their perspective. Candidates may also be interviewed to understand their personality and suitability for the course. Further, a candidate may be required to present a portfolio of work.
What differentiates the subjective component from the objective part is that it lacks a model solution or a definite answer. The jury or expert evaluates the candidates on the spot based on their performance.
On the other hand, the prelims or the objective part of the design entrance exams often are MCQs, which have a definite answer and are designed to test the candidate’s general awareness and logical reasoning ability.
Overview of the Change in NID DAT Selection Process
The table below provides an overview of the change in the NID selection process for prelims and the mains exam.
NID B.Des 2026 Revised Weightage
Particulars | Revised Weightage | Old Weightage |
Prelims | No weightage in final selection. Qualifying exam for mains | 40% weightage in final selection |
Mains | 100% weightage in final selection (Studio sensitivity test - 60% In-person sensitivity test - 40%) | 60% weightage in final selection |
NID M.Des 2026 Revised Weightage
Particulars | Revised Weightage | Old Weightage |
Prelims | No weightage in final selection. Qualifying exam for mains | 30% weightage in final selection |
Mains | 100% weightage in final selection (Studio test - 40% Interview - 60%) | 70% weightage in final selection (Studio test - 40% Interview - 30%) |
Why is the Change in the NID Selection Process Not Unexpected?
The change in the NID selection process is on expected lines, as the subjective part in other design entrance exams already dominates with a much higher weightage in the final selection criteria. Often, the weightage for the subjective part is over 70% except in UCEED, where the subjective and objective parts are not weighted, indicating an equal weightage of 50% for each.
The outsized importance of mains/subjective component indicates that top design colleges look for candidates who possess the creative aptitude and hands-on practical skills to build a successful career in design.
The tables given below show the weightage of the mains or the subjective part for other entrance exams.
Weightage of Subjective Part in NIFT B.Des Selection Process
Part | Weightage |
Creative Ability Test | 50% |
Studio Test | 20% |
Total | 70% |
Weightage of Subjective Part in NIFT M.Des Selection Process
Part | Weightage |
Creative Ability Test | 40% |
Interview | 30% |
Total | 70% |
Weightage of Subjective Part in CEED Total Score
Part | Weightage |
Part B | 75% for calculating the final CEED score (evaluated only for those who are shortlisted from part A) |
Weightage of Subjective Part in UCEED Total Score
Part | Weightage |
Part B | No weightage is assigned for Part A and Part B for calculating the final score. In other words, equal weightage of 50%. |
What it Means for Candidates Appearing for Design Entrance Exams?
The high weightage for the subjective component in top design entrance exams means candidates cannot rely solely on their exam preparation. They have to invest in developing their creative and hands-on skills and build a good portfolio of creative works that showcases their personality and ability. It also suggests that the top design colleges are looking for candidates who possess job readiness and can meet the demands of the growing design industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the weightage of the interview in the NIFT M.Des selection process?
A:
The interview has 30% weightage in the NIFT M.Des selection process
Q: What is the weightage of CAT in the NIFT B.Des selection process?
A:
The CAT has 50% weightage in the NIFT B.Des selection process.
Q: What is the change in the NID selection process?
A:
In the NID 2026 selection process, the mains has 100% weightage for final selection.
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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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