NIFT 2026 Application Form to Be Released Soon for Upcoming Admissions

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) 2026 official notification and application form are expected to be released anytime now, primarily in November 2025. Aspiring designers for B.Des and B.F.Tech programs must prepare for the crucial entrance exam, slated for February 2026. The application window, managed by the National Testing Agency (NTA), will be brief, with the last date without a late fee likely falling in the first week of January 2026. This comprehensive guide details the key dates, eligibility criteria, and the multi-stage exam pattern (CAT, GAT, and Situation Test) to help you secure a seat at India's premier fashion institutes. Stay alert, download the official brochure from nift.ac.in, and apply well before the deadline!

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Entrance Exam is the most critical hurdle to securing a career in the dynamic world of design. The gateway to 19 NIFT campuses, the official NIFT 2026 application form is now highly anticipated and expected to be released very soon, marking the commencement of the admission cycle for the academic year 2026–27.

​The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the exam, is set to release the official notification and information brochure on the official websites: nift.ac.in and the dedicated NTA portal, exams.nta.ac.in/NIFT. As the calendar moves into late November 2025, candidates must shift into high gear. The entire registration window is typically compact, making timely application submission absolutely crucial to avoid steep late fees.

​Crucial Dates and The Online Application Roadmap 

​The window for NIFT registration is often narrow, demanding prompt action from every eligible aspirant. Missing the deadline, particularly the one without a late fee, can incur significant extra costs.

• ​Anticipated Application Schedule (Tentative):
  • ​Official Notification & Application Form Release: Expected in November 2025 (Any day now).
  • ​Last Date for Submission (Regular Fee): First week of January 2026 (Approximately January 6th-8th).
  • ​Last Date for Submission (with Late Fee): Second week of January 2026 (Typically lasts for a few days after the regular deadline, with an additional fee of around ₹5,000).
  • ​Application Correction Window: Second week of January 2026 (A short period provided to correct non-editable details).
  • ​NIFT Entrance Exam Date (CAT & GAT): Second week of February 2026.
• ​Application Submission Checklist: To ensure a smooth registration process, candidates should have the following ready: 
  • ​Scanned copies of the applicant's photograph and signature in the prescribed size and format.
  • ​A valid email ID and mobile number for registration and official communication.
  • ​Required academic details (Class X and XII marks/details).
  • ​Category Certificate (OBC-NCL, SC/ST, EWS, PwD) if applying under a reserved quota.
  • ​Online Application Fee Payment: Fees are typically around ₹3,000 for General/OBC-NCL/EWS and ₹1,500 for SC/ST/PwD categories (subject to final NIFT 2026 official notification).

​Eligibility and the Multi-Stage Exam Pattern 

​NIFT admission is a phased, competitive process involving written tests and a practical evaluation, with specific criteria for eligibility that must be met before applying.

• ​Eligibility Criteria for B.Des (Bachelor of Design): 
  • ​Academic Qualification: The candidate must have passed the 10+2 level examination from any recognized Central/State Board or an equivalent, recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
  • ​Age Limit: The maximum age limit is generally 24 years as of August 1, 2026 (relaxations apply for SC/ST/PwD candidates).
  • ​Appearing Status: Candidates who are appearing for their final 10+2 examinations in 2026 are also eligible to apply.
• ​The Three-Stage Selection Process (for B.Des): Successful admission hinges on performance across three distinct stages: 
  • ​Stage 1: Creative Ability Test (CAT): This is a subjective, paper-based test (3 hours) designed to judge the candidate's intuitive ability, observation skills, power of imagination, and illustration skills, with a significant 50% weightage in the final score.
  • ​Stage 2: General Ability Test (GAT): This is an objective, computer-based test (2 hours) assessing quantitative ability, communication ability, English comprehension, analytical and logical ability, and general knowledge/current affairs, carrying 30% weightage. Note: The GAT is the only test for B.F.Tech.
  • ​Stage 3: Situation Test: Shortlisted B.Des candidates participate in this hands-on practical test (2 hours). It evaluates the candidate's skill in material handling, innovative use of a given set of materials, and the ability to articulate the concept through a written explanation. This crucial stage has a 20% weightage.

​Preparation Strategy and The NIFT Advantage 

​With the exam tentatively scheduled for the second week of February 2026, aspirants have a few months for focused, intensive preparation. A strategic approach is vital for balancing the creative and analytical demands of the exam.

• ​Creative Aptitude and Sketching Practice: The CAT carries the highest weightage, so dedicate substantial time to: 
  • ​Regular Sketching: Practice drawing from observation, memory, and imagination, focusing on proportion, perspective, and composition.
  • ​Color Theory: Study and practice the effective use of colors, patterns, and visual communication principles.
  • ​Concept Development: Practice generating quick, innovative visual responses to abstract or themed prompts.
• ​GAT Mastery and Current Affairs: The GAT requires steady, consistent preparation: 
  • ​Quantitative Ability: Focus on school-level mathematics, including basic arithmetic, geometry, and data interpretation.
  • ​General Knowledge & Current Affairs: Stay updated on global events, particularly those related to fashion, textiles, art, and design history (read newspapers, design blogs, and monthly current affairs compilations).
  • ​Analytical Reasoning: Practice solving logical puzzles and visual reasoning questions.
• ​The NIFT Edge: NIFT graduates are highly sought after due to the institution's premier status and industry connections. NIFT offers specialized programs across its campuses, including Fashion Design, Textile Design, Accessory Design, and Fashion Communication, leading to highly rewarding careers in India's booming fashion, retail, and lifestyle sectors.

​Conclusion

​The release of the NIFT 2026 application form is the official starting signal for one of the country's most competitive design entrance exams. With the official notification expected in November 2025 and the regular application deadline set for the first week of January 2026, time is of the essence. Aspiring designers must focus on submitting their applications accurately and on time, while simultaneously intensifying their preparation for the multi-faceted written examination in February. Diligence, creativity, and a timely application will be the keys to unlocking your future at the National Institute of Fashion Technology.

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