NIFT 2026 Final Answer Key Expected in Late February; NTA to Declare Stage 1 Results by Third Week of April
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially concluded the objection process for the NIFT 2026 Provisional Answer Key. A Final Answer Key, is expected to be released by late February 2026. This key will serve as the absolute basis for calculating the Stage 1 results.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially concluded the objection process for the NIFT 2026 Provisional Answer Key as of February 19. Following the February 8 exam, thousands of candidates utilized the three-day window to challenge potential discrepancies in the General Ability Test (GAT) keys. The NTA is now in the process of reviewing these challenges with subject matter experts. A Final Answer Key, which cannot be challenged further, is expected to be released by late February 2026. This key will serve as the absolute basis for calculating the Stage 1 results.
To receive an alert as soon as the final PDF is uploaded to exams.nta.ac.in/niftee, follow Only Education News.
Countdown to NIFT Stage 1 Results
While the final answer key is imminent, the comprehensive results (including CAT scores) will take a few more weeks to process.
| Event | Status / Date |
|---|---|
| Provisional Answer Key Release | February 17, 2026 (Completed) |
| Objection Window Closed | February 19, 2026 (Closed) |
| Final Answer Key Release | Late February 2026 (Expected) |
| NIFT Stage 1 Result (GAT + CAT) | April 2026 (Tentative) |
| Situation Test / Personal Interview | April – May 2026 |
What’s Next After the Final Key?
The final key only applies to the GAT (objective section). For B.Des and M.Des aspirants, the Creative Ability Test (CAT) is still a "black box" as it is evaluated subjectively by a panel of designers.
- Score Calculation: Once the final key is out, use your response sheet to calculate your definitive GAT score ($Marks = Correct - 0.25 \times Incorrect$).
- Stage 2 Preparation: Only those who clear the Stage 1 cutoff will be invited for the Situation Test (B.Des) or Personal Interviews (M.Des/MFM/BFTech).
- Situation Test focus: Start practicing with materials like cardboard, wire, clay, and translucent sheets to build 3D models based on specific themes.
Eligibility & Cut-offs
NIFT 2026 has seen a steady increase in applicants across its 20 campuses. Historically, a percentile of 95+ is required for top-tier campuses like NIFT Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru. Candidates are reminded that final rankings are determined by a weighted combination of Stage 1 and Stage 2 scores.
For a detailed analysis of the expected GAT cut-offs for each stream based on the February 8 paper difficulty, follow Only Education News.
