NIFT 2026 Entrance Examination Preparations Intensify Ahead of February Test
The National Testing Agency has finalized arrangements for the NIFT 2026 entrance examination scheduled for February 8.With admit cards released on February 4, candidates across 102 cities are completing their final revision cycles.The 2026 admission process includes a Computer Based Test for GAT and a Paper Based Test for CAT.Aspiring designers must adhere to strict biometric protocols and reporting times for the upcoming national-level evaluation.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has moved into the final stages of operational readiness for the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance examination 2026. As the countdown to the February 8 test date enters its final 48 hours, examination centers across 102 cities have intensified their logistics and security protocols. This year, the NIFTEE 2026 session marks a significant milestone with the inclusion of two new testing cities, Vapi and Daman, to accommodate the increasing number of aspirants from western India.
Structural Overview of the February 8 Examination
The NIFT entrance test is structured to evaluate a candidate's creative and analytical potential through two distinct segments. The General Ability Test (GAT) is conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT), while the Creative Ability Test (CAT) remains a traditional Paper Based Test (PBT). For the 2026 cycle, the NTA has maintained a strict reporting schedule, requiring all candidates to be present at their respective centers at least 60 minutes before the commencement of each shift.
- GAT Segment: This morning shift test focuses on quantitative ability, communication skills, and analytical reasoning, lasting for 120 minutes for B.Des candidates.
- CAT Segment: The afternoon shift evaluates visualization and sketching skills, where candidates are given 180 minutes to respond to creative prompts.
- Biometric Enrollment: All centers are equipped with biometric scanners to record candidate attendance, ensuring a high-security environment for the national-level test.
Mandatory Protocols and Candidate Guidelines
With the NIFT 2026 admit cards released on February 4, candidates are advised to verify all personal details and center addresses mentioned on their hall tickets. The NTA has strictly prohibited the entry of electronic devices, bags, and any form of communication equipment into the secure examination zone. In the 2026 academic cycle, center officials have been instructed to conduct thorough manual frisking alongside electronic surveillance to maintain exam integrity.
- Documentation: A printed copy of the admit card and a valid government-issued photo ID are non-negotiable requirements for entry.
- Stationery Rules: For the CAT section, candidates may carry their own sketching kits, including pencils, erasers, and dry colors, but liquid paints are generally restricted.
- Late Entry Policy: The gates will be sealed exactly 30 minutes before the start of each examination session; latecomers will not be entertained under any circumstances.
| Program Type | Examination Component | Mode of Conduct | Duration |
| B.Des / M.Des | GAT | Computer Based (CBT) | 2 Hours |
| B.Des / M.Des | CAT | Paper Based (PBT) | 3 Hours |
| B.F.Tech / MFM | GAT Only | Computer Based (CBT) | 3 Hours |
Post-Examination Timeline and Result Projections
Once the February 8 written tests are concluded, the admission process will transition into the answer key challenge phase. The NTA is expected to release the provisional GAT answer keys by the third week of February 2026. This allows candidates to estimate their performance before the final results are announced in late March. Successful candidates will then advance to the Situation Test and Personal Interview rounds, which are the final components of the NIFT 2026 selection process.
- Result Declaration: The written exam results are tentatively scheduled for publication on the NTA NIFT portal by the second week of March.
- Situation Test: Shortlisted B.Des candidates will be called for hands-on material handling tests at various NIFT campuses in April 2026.
- Counseling: The final merit-based seat allocation process is expected to begin in June, covering all 18 NIFT campuses nationwide.
Conclusion
The intensification of preparations for the NIFT 2026 entrance examination ensures that the national-level selection process remains robust and transparent. With the February 8 test date approaching, the focus remains on the seamless execution of the dual-shift evaluation across 102 cities. Candidates are expected to finalize their travel arrangements and documentation to ensure they can participate in this pivotal step toward a professional design career.