NIFT 2026 Stage-2 PI Round Scheduled in Delhi for MDes Admissions
NIFT has scheduled the Stage-2 Personal Interview round for MDes admissions. Qualified candidates can now check their specific interview slots at the Delhi campus.
The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) has officially commenced the scheduling for the Stage-2 Personal Interview (PI) round for the Master of Design (MDes) program. Following the successful conduct of the Stage-1 written examinations earlier this year, the institute has designated the NIFT Delhi campus as a primary venue for these critical interactions. This stage marks the final evaluative phase for post-graduate aspirants seeking entry into the 2026 academic session.
The Personal Interview is a cornerstone of the NIFT selection process for master’s programs. Unlike undergraduate courses that focus on a Situation Test, the MDes selection criteria lean heavily on the candidate’s professional portfolio, conceptual depth, and industry awareness. As the academic calendar progresses, the scheduling of these interviews in Delhi highlights the transition from broad-based testing to individualized assessment.
Evaluation of Creative and Professional Aptitude
Candidates who have qualified through the General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT) are now eligible for the PI round. During this interaction, a panel of experts comprising senior NIFT faculty and industry veterans evaluates the candidate’s suitability for advanced design studies. The panel looks for clarity of thought, a strong grasp of design principles, and a well-defined career vision.
The Delhi campus, located in Hauz Khas, remains a central hub for these interviews due to its proximity to industry leaders and extensive infrastructure. Candidates are required to present a physical portfolio that showcases their creative journey. This portfolio should include a variety of work, such as sketches, digital designs, or documentation of industry projects, which reflect the candidate’s ability to solve complex design problems.
| NIFT 2026 MDes Admission Timeline | Key Details |
| Stage-1 Results | Released in March |
| Interview Call Letter Release | Currently Available for Download |
| Stage-2 Interview Period | April 2026 |
| Interview Venue | NIFT Delhi Campus |
| Final Merit List Announcement | Expected May 2026 |
| Counseling Process | Starting June 2026 |
Mandatory Requirements for Interviewees
Shortlisted candidates must download their interview call letters from the official NIFT portal. This document is essential as it lists the specific date, time slot, and reporting requirements for the interview. The institute has advised candidates that no changes to the assigned slots will be permitted, making it vital for students to plan their travel to Delhi accordingly.
Upon arrival at the campus, candidates undergo a document verification process. It is mandatory to carry original academic certificates, the Stage-1 admit card, and valid government-issued photo identification. Any discrepancy in the documentation can lead to immediate disqualification. The interview itself typically lasts between 15 to 20 minutes, during which candidates discuss their previous academic background and their motivations for pursuing an MDes at NIFT.
Final Selection and Weightage
The final merit list for the Master of Design is prepared by combining scores from all stages of the entrance process. For MDes, the Personal Interview carries a substantial weightage of 30%, while the written CAT and GAT scores contribute the remaining 70%. This ensures that the selected batch is not only technically proficient but also possesses the communication skills and maturity required for high-level design management.
As the current academic cycle moves forward, the successful completion of the PI round will lead to the declaration of final results. These results will dictate the seat allotment during the centralized counseling sessions in the coming months.
Conclusion
The progression of NIFT 2026 admissions into the Stage-2 interview phase represents the final competitive hurdle for MDes aspirants. With the interviews now scheduled at the Delhi campus, the focus has shifted from nationwide testing to personal excellence. For candidates, this is the definitive opportunity to showcase their creative vision to the selection committee. Staying updated through the official NIFT website and preparing a professional portfolio are the primary responsibilities for students during this transition. As the interviews conclude, the 2026 batch will begin to take shape, representing the next generation of design leadership in India.
