The National Testing Agency (NTA) has closed the regular application window, shifting focus to the NIFT 2026 written exam. Aspirants are currently in a high-intensity preparation phase for the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT) scheduled for February 8.While the application correction window remains active through January 22, students are prioritizing mock tests and speed-drills to master the 100-question computer-based format. Securing a high rank in this preliminary stage is essential for shortlisting for the subsequent Situation Test and Personal Interviews in April.

With the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance test scheduled for February 8, 2026, the countdown has officially begun for over 50,000 design aspirants. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has opened the correction window for application forms, marking the final administrative step before the release of admit cards. For students, this period signifies a shift from foundational learning to aggressive preparations, with a specific focus on time management and creative output. The NIFT 2026 written exam serves as the primary gateway to the country’s 20 campuses, making these final weeks of preparations the most critical in the entire admission cycle.

Mastering the Dual-Test Format

The NIFT entrance is unique due to its split evaluation between the General Ability Test (GAT) and the Creative Ability Test (CAT). For B.Des and M.Des aspirants, balancing these two distinct papers is the central challenge of their written exam strategy.

• GAT Strategy (CBT Mode): The General Ability Test is a computer-based objective exam consisting of 100 questions (for B.Des). Candidates are intensifying their drills in Quantitative Ability, Analytical Reasoning, and English Comprehension.
• CAT Strategy (PBT Mode): The Creative Ability Test remains a pen-and-paper exam. It evaluates design sensibility, power of observation, and the innovative use of color.
• Sectional Weightage: In the B.Des program, CAT accounts for 50% of the prelims score, while GAT contributes 30%. The remaining 20% is reserved for the Situation Test.
• Mock Test Frequency: To thrive in the written environment, mentors recommend at least three full-length mock tests per week to build the stamina required for the five-hour exam day.

Key Dates for NIFT 2026 Aspirants

While the written exam is the immediate hurdle, candidates must keep track of the broader NIFT Admission Calendar 2026 to ensure they don't miss subsequent stages.

• Correction Deadline: The window to edit certain fields in the application form closes at 11:50 PM on January 22.
• Late Prep Focus: Current preparations should prioritize General Knowledge and Current Affairs, particularly related to the fashion industry, as these sections often differentiate top rankers.

The Road to the Situation Test

Clearing the written hurdle is only the first half of the battle. The scores from February 8 will determine the shortlist for the next phase of evaluation.

• Shortlisting Ratio: Typically, candidates totaling 3 to 4 times the number of available seats are called for the second stage.
• Situation Test Prep: While the focus is on the written paper, many students spend an hour daily on material handling and 3D model-making to keep their creative muscles flexible.
• Negative Marking: Aspirants are reminded that GAT carries a negative marking of 25% (0.25 marks) for incorrect answers, necessitating a high degree of accuracy.
• Study Resources: Utilizing previous years' question papers is currently the most effective way to understand the evolving difficulty level of the CAT section.

Conclusion

As the NIFT 2026 entrance exam approaches, the intensity of candidate preparations continues to peak. The transition from the application phase to the final revision weeks marks a high-stakes period where consistency in sketching and accuracy in aptitude testing are paramount. With the written exam less than three weeks away, the focus remains on refining the Creative Ability Test skills while maintaining a sharp edge in the General Ability sections. The February 8 test will ultimately decide which aspirants move forward to the prestigious Situation Test and Personal Interview stages, bringing them one step closer to a career in global fashion and design.