NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam Set for February 8; Admit Card Compliance Emphasised

As of February 7, 2026, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance examination is less than 24 hours away. The National Testing Agency (NTA) released the Stage 1 admit cards on February 4, and candidates are now in the final stages of preparation. This update highlights essential admit card compliance, reporting times for the GAT and CAT shifts, and the list of mandatory documents required at the 102 test cities nation wide.Ensure your hall ticket is printed and all identification proofs are ready for the Sunday examination. The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is set to conduct its highly anticipated Stage 1 entrance examination tomorrow, February 8, 2026. As of today, February 7, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has urged all registered candidates to perform a final check of their NIFT 2026 admit card details. The examination, which serves as the primary gateway for prestigious B.Des, B.F.Tech, and various postgraduate design programs, will be held across 102 cities in India, including the newly added centers in Daman and Vapi.

Mandatory Admit Card Compliance

The NIFT 2026 admit card was officially made available for download on February 4, 2026, via the official NTA NIFT portal. Candidates who have not yet secured their hall tickets must log in using their application number and date of birth immediately. The NTA has emphasized that a digital copy on a mobile phone will not be accepted; a physical, clear printout is a non-negotiable requirement for entry.

• Photograph Requirement: Candidates must paste a recent passport-size photograph in the designated space on the NIFT 2026 admit card. This photo should ideally match the one uploaded during the registration process.
• Thumb Impression: A left-hand thumb impression must be placed in the specified box, though it is often recommended to do this at the exam center in the presence of the invigilator if instructed.
• Signature: The candidate's signature must be performed only in the exam hall; pre-signed admit cards may be flagged by security personnel.

Exam Day Schedule and Logistics

The entrance test is divided into two distinct segments: the General Ability Test (GAT) and the Creative Ability Test (CAT). According to the NIFT admission guidelines, the GAT will be conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, while the CAT remains a paper-based drawing exam.

The National Testing Agency has warned that gates will close strictly 30 minutes before the commencement of each shift. Candidates appearing for both tests should plan for the midday break and ensure they remain near the vicinity of their allotted center to avoid delays.

Final Checklist for Candidates

In addition to the NIFT 2026 admit card, aspirants must carry a valid Government-issued photo ID. Acceptable documents include an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport. The PIB Delhi release regarding the 2026-27 batch also reminds students that stationery for the CAT—such as pencils, erasers, and dry colors—must be carried in a transparent pouch. Electronic gadgets, including smartwatches and calculators, are strictly prohibited within the examination premises.

Conclusion

With the National Institute of Fashion Technology entrance exam scheduled for tomorrow, the current focus remains on administrative readiness. Candidates must prioritize the printing of the NIFT 2026 admit card and the verification of their assigned test centers today. By adhering to the National Testing Agency guidelines and ensuring all mandatory documents are in order, aspirants can approach the February 8 test with confidence. Success in this Stage 1 round is the first step toward a career in India's premier fashion and design ecosystem.

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