NID 2026 Application Window for B.Des and M.Des to Open in September
The NID DAT 2026 application window for B.Des & M.Des is expected to open in September. Find details on the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and key dates for aspirants.
The National Institute of Design (NID) is gearing up to commence the application process for the NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT) 2026, for admission to its prestigious Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) and Master of Design (M.Des.) programs. While the official notification is pending, sources and past trends indicate that the application window is expected to open in September 2025. This signals the official start of the admission cycle for design aspirants across the country.
The application period is anticipated to last for approximately three months, closing tentatively in December 2025. This timeline provides candidates with a significant window to complete their applications, prepare for the entrance exam, and gather all the necessary documents.
Key Dates and Exam Pattern at a Glance
The NID DAT is a two-stage examination process that assesses a candidate's creative and analytical abilities.
NID DAT 2026 Tentative Schedule
| Event | Tentative Dates |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | September 2025 |
| Application Last Date | December 2025 |
| NID DAT Prelims Exam | January 2026 |
| NID DAT Mains Exam | B.Des: April 2026<br>M.Des: March to April 2026 |
| Final Results | May 2026 |
Exam Pattern
The NID DAT is conducted in two phases:
- DAT Prelims: A pen-and-paper-based exam that includes both a Creative Ability Test (CAT) and a General Ability Test (GAT). The CAT evaluates observation skills, design thinking, and drawing abilities, while the GAT assesses general knowledge, logical reasoning, and English comprehension.
- DAT Mains: Candidates who clear the Prelims are eligible for this stage. It typically comprises a Studio Test, which is a hands-on examination of practical skills, and for M.Des aspirants, a personal interview where they can present their portfolio and discuss their design interests.
Eligibility and Application Process
For B.Des, candidates must have passed or be appearing for their Class 12 exams from any recognized board. The age limit for General category candidates is to be born on or after July 1, 2005.
For M.Des, candidates need a Bachelor's degree of at least three years in any discipline or a four-year full-time diploma in a related field. The age limit for General category is to be born on or after July 1, 1993.
The application fee for the NID DAT 2026 is expected to be ₹3,000 for General category candidates and ₹1,500 for SC/ST/PwD candidates. The entire application process is online and requires aspirants to register on the official NID admissions portal.