NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT) 2026

The National Institute of Design (NID) regulates the DAT for granting admissions to Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Design (M.Des) programmes across its coveted campuses functioning as Institutes of National Importance.

1. Exam Stages

The assessment occurs via a rigorous two-tier process:

• DAT Prelims: A paper-and-pencil test mapping visual design abilities, knowledge, and observational skills. (Late December 2025).
• DAT Mains: Only shortlisted candidates proceed. This includes Studio Tests (hands-on modeling, sketching, group discussions, and portfolio viewing) and Personal Interviews (April 2026).

2. Notification and Form Timeline

• Applications Live: September 2025.
• Deadline to Submit (Without Late Fee): Early December 2025.
• Prelims Admit Card Output: Mid-December 2025.

3. Direct References

4. Assessment Dimensions

• NID DAT goes beyond mere drawing skills. It evaluates a candidate's innovative problem solving, material manipulation aptitude, and out-of-the-box analytical thought processes under time pressure. Daily sketching and practicing unconventional material joining forms the backbone of DAT preparation.