MITID Sets April 5 as Design Entrance Test Date for 2026 Admissions
MIT Institute of Design has officially scheduled the MITID DAT 2026 for April 5. This article provides aspirants with a detailed look at the B.Des and M.Des admission timeline, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step application process. Learn about the INR 3,000 fee for Indian applicants and the crucial February 28 registration deadline. Stay updated with the complete schedule to ensure your design career begins on the right track.

The MIT Institute of Design (MITID) has formally announced the schedule for its prestigious Design Aptitude Test (DAT) for the 2026 academic session. Aspiring designers looking to secure a seat in Bachelor of Design (B.Des) or Master of Design (M.Des) programs must mark April 5, 2026, as the primary examination date. This national-level entrance test serves as the gateway to MITID’s innovative campuses in Pune, Ujjain, and Shillong.
Key Dates and Admission Timeline for Aspirants
Understanding the sequence of events is vital for a stress-free application experience. The admission cycle for 2026 is already underway, and candidates must adhere to the following milestones:
- Registration Deadline: The online application portal will remain active until February 28, 2026.
- Entrance Exam Date: The Phase 1 Design Aptitude Test (DAT) is scheduled for April 5, 2026.
- Result Declaration: Results for the written entrance test will be released on April 23, 2026, after 5:00 PM.
- Second Phase: Shortlisted candidates will proceed to the Studio Test and Personal Interview rounds in May 2026.
Table: MITID DAT 2026 Important Event Schedule
| Event | Date / Period |
| Last Date to Apply | February 28, 2026 |
| MITID DAT Exam Date | April 5, 2026 |
| DAT Result Announcement | April 23, 2026 |
| Studio Test (B.Des) | May 6 – May 13, 2026 |
| Studio Test (M.Des) | May 14 – May 18, 2026 |
| Final Merit List | May 15 – May 20, 2026 |
Eligibility and Application Requirements
Before starting the digital application, students must ensure they meet the specific academic and creative standards set by the institute.
- Educational Qualifications: B.Des applicants require a 10+2 pass certificate from any recognized board (HSC, CBSE, ICSE, IB) with at least 50% aggregate.
- M.Des Requirements: Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline; specific tracks like Product Design prefer backgrounds in Engineering or Architecture.
- Application Fees: Indian national applicants must pay a fee of INR 3,000, while NRI/PIO/OCI candidates are charged INR 4,500.
- Mandatory Documents: Ensure you have scanned copies of your 10th and 12th marksheets, a recent photograph, and a digital signature ready for upload.
Exam Pattern and Selection Process
The MITID selection process is rigorous, designed to identify creative potential beyond academic scores. The DAT evaluates candidates on their analytical skills, logical reasoning, and drawing abilities.
- Phase 1 (DAT): A combination of objective, subjective, and drawing tests conducted at various national centers.
- Phase 2 (Studio Test): Practical tests conducted at the Pune campus to assess hands-on creative skills.
- Phase 3 (Personal Interview): A final interaction including a portfolio review to gauge the candidate’s mindset and design inclination.
The final merit list is prepared by consolidating scores from all three phases. Aspirants are encouraged to begin compiling their creative portfolios immediately to showcase their best work during the interview rounds. Candidates should consistently monitor the official MITID DAT portal to track application status and download their admit cards in March.
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