NIFT 2026 Written Exam and Interview Stages Expected to Drive March Admission Cycle

The NIFT 2026 admission cycle is moving into a critical phase as the National Testing Agency prepares to release admit cards in March. Shortlisted candidates for PG programs will gear up for the interview stages, while UG aspirants look ahead to the situation test. This update details the weightage for the 2026 selection process and the upcoming schedule for various design programs.

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is set to intensify its 2026 admission activities as the calendar flips to March. Following the completion of the nationwide entrance examinations, the National Testing Agency (NTA) is expected to release the admit cards for the next stage of selection this month. This period marks the transition from written aptitude testing to the qualitative evaluation of creative and communicative abilities.

Admission Stages and Interview Prep

For the 2026 session, NIFT continues its multi-stage selection process. While B.Des candidates await the Situation Test, Master’s aspirants in programs like M.Des, M.F.M., and M.F.Tech are moving toward the Personal Interview (PI) stage. The official NIFT portal will serve as the primary hub for scheduling these interactions.

• The Personal Interview for PG programs carries a significant 30% weightage in the final merit calculation.
• Candidates are evaluated on their career orientation, communication skills, and general awareness during these interview rounds.
• Shortlisted aspirants for PhD programs must also prepare their research proposals for the presentation rounds scheduled for the second quarter.

Situation Test and Portfolio Requirements

Undergraduate B.Des aspirants who cleared the written cut-off will receive notifications regarding the Situation Test. This hands-on model-making exam assesses spontaneous creativity and material handling, often carrying a 20% weightage in the NIFT selection process.

• The March window will be used for slot booking, where candidates select their preferred NIFT campus for the offline Situation Test.
• PG candidates are encouraged to refine their creative portfolios, as the interview panel often reviews past work to gauge professional aptness.
• A summary of the NIFT 2026 admission trajectory is provided below:

Conclusion

In conclusion, the month of March 2026 represents the "bridge" month for NIFT aspirants. As the admission cycle moves from the GAT/CAT results into the interview and situation test stages, candidates must focus on their creative presentation and communicative clarity to secure a seat at their preferred campus.

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