NIFT 2026 Application Phase Ends; Exam Updates Awaited for Stage 1

The primary registration window for the NIFT 2026 entrance examination has officially closed, marking the end of the initial application phase. National Testing Agency (NTA) is now preparing for the Stage 1 written exams scheduled for February 8, 2026.Candidates are awaiting critical updates regarding the correction window and admit card release to finalize their exam day preparations.

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) has successfully concluded the initial registration phase for its 2026 academic session. Administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the application window for the NIFTEE Stage 1 examination closed its regular fee cycle on January 16, followed by a brief late-fee extension that ended on January 19. Thousands of design and technology candidates have now transitioned from the administrative task of form-filling to the intensive preparation required for the upcoming competitive tests. The focus has shifted entirely to the official portal for vital schedules and notifications regarding the next steps in the selection process.

Critical Milestones and Correction Window

For many students, the end of the application phase brings a period of scrutiny. The NTA has announced a dedicated correction window from January 20 to January 21, 2026, allowing applicants to rectify minor errors in their personal or educational data. This brief window is the final opportunity for candidates to ensure their information matches their official documents before the admit cards are generated. Following this, the NIFTEE administration will begin processing the data to assign exam centers across 102 cities in India.

• Correction Window: January 20 – January 21, 2026.
• Admit Card Release: Expected in the first week of February 2026.
• Exam Date: February 8, 2026 (Sunday).
• Mode of Exam: Hybrid—GAT is computer-based (CBT), while CAT is paper-based (PBT).

Understanding the Stage 1 Exam Structure

The Stage 1 written exam is a high-stakes assessment that determines eligibility for the second phase. The schedules for February 8 indicate a split day for B.Des and M.Des candidates, who must navigate both the General Ability Test (GAT) and the Creative Ability Test (CAT). For technology and management programs (B.F.Tech, M.F.M., and M.F.Tech), the selection is primarily based on the GAT, which evaluates quantitative ability, communication skills, and general knowledge.

Preparing for Stage 2: Situation Test and Interviews

Once the Stage 1 results are declared in March or April, shortlisted candidates will enter the second phase of the admission cycle. For B.Des students, this involves the Situation Test, a hands-on evaluation where they must create 3D models from a given set of materials. For postgraduate programs, the interaction shifts to personal interviews and group discussions. The final merit lists, which combine scores from both stages, are typically released in May 2026.

1. GAT Preparation: Focus on speed and accuracy in the numerical and analytical sections.
2. CAT Mastery: Practice spatial visualization, innovative storytelling, and rendering under 3-hour constraints.
3. Document Readiness: Ensure a valid government-issued photo ID is available for the February exam.
4. Portfolio Building: While not mandatory for all programs, M.Des candidates should begin organizing their creative work for potential interviews.

Conclusion

The conclusion of the NIFT 2026 application phase signals the start of the most demanding period for design students. With the NIFTEE written exam just weeks away, the emphasis is now on tactical revision and staying informed through official channels. By adhering to the upcoming schedules for correction and admit card downloads, candidates can ensure a seamless transition into the exam hall on February 8. The journey to joining one of India’s 19 NIFT campuses is now entering its final stretch, where creative vision meets technical aptitude.