NIFT Exam Pattern 2027: B.Des/M.Des Paper Format, Marking Scheme & Weightage, Important Topics

National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Exam 2027 ( NIFT Entrance Exam )

Sayeba Naushad
Updated on Aug 18, 2026 16:24 IST

By Sayeba Naushad, Assistant Manager

NIFT Exam Pattern 2027 - The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) releases the pattern for NIFT Entrance Examination 2027. NIFT 2027 exam is conducted in two stages. Stage 1 includes the written exams - NIFT GAT and NIFT CAT. The GAT is common for all the courses, while B.Des and M.Des candidates also need to take the CAT. The GAT paper will be conducted in a computer-based test (CBT) mode, while the CAT paper will be held offline. The scores of NIFT exam are used to shortlist candidates for a Situation Test/ Personal Interview.  

Table of contents
  • NIFT 2027 Pattern Highlights
  • NIFT 2027 Weightage of CAT, GAT, Situation tetst and PI
  • NIFT 2027 Total Marks and Marking Scheme
  • NIFT 2027 Important Topics
  • NIFT Exam Pattern 2027 - FAQs
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NIFT 2027 Pattern Highlights

Check out the NIFT pattern overview.

Particulars Details
Exam Name NIFT Entrance Examination
Conducting Body National Testing Agency (NTA)
Mode of Exam Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Sections General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT)
GAT Tests Quantitative ability, communication ability, English comprehension, analytical ability, general knowledge, and current affairs
CAT Tests Creativity, observation, illustration, visualisation, and design ability
Question Type Objective-type questions in GAT; drawing/design-based questions in CAT
Medium English and Hindi for GAT; English for CAT
Duration Varies as per programme and paper
Courses B.Des, B.F.Tech, M.Des, M.F.M, and M.F.Tech
Further Selection Situation Test, Studio Test, or Personal Interview (depending on the programme)
Negative Marking Applicable in GAT as per prescribed exam rules

Also Read:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the material list for NIFT Situation Test?
A: 

The material kit of NIFT Situation Test can include the following:

  • Corrugated sheets: 2
  • Cardboard: 1
  • OHP Sheets: 1
  • Translucents Sheet: 1
  • Coloured sheets: 4
  • Ice cream sticks: 8-10
  • Toothpicks: 6-7
  • All pinks
  • Jute Thread: 2m
  • Needle
  • Balloon
  • Clay: 2 colors
  • Chopsticks: 2
  • Quilling strips
  • Paper plate: 2
  • Bubble wrap: 1
  • Muslin Cloth piece
  • Butter paper
  • Newspaper
  • Rubber band
Q:   How can I select my preferred NIFT participating institute for admission to the B.Des programme?
A: 

The candidate will be able to select their choice of NIFT participating institutes (in the order of priority) at the time of filling out the NIFT counseling registration form.

  • Online registration for NIFT counseling will start soon after the final results are declared.
  • The counseling registrations for NIFT will be open to candidates who have qualified in the NIFT entrance exam.

 

Q:   What are the key points candidates need to remember regarding the NIFT answer key?
A: 

Candidates must remember the following points for NIFT.

  • Answer key will only be released for the GAT paper
  • No answer keys will be released for the CAT paper
  • Answer key has to be downloaded online from the NID admission portal
  • Candidate will be given the option to challenge the NIFT answer key
  • To make a challenge, the candidate will have to pay INR 500 per challenge. The final answer key will be released after considering all challenges filed by candidates.
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NIFT 2027 Weightage of CAT, GAT, Situation tetst and PI

DeskCalendarResult: Mar ' 27

Weightage of NIFT written test components, CAT and GAT is given in the table below. The merit list will be prepared giving weightage to these.

Program

Exam

Weightage

B. Des.

GAT

30%

CAT

50%

Situation Test

20%

B.F. Tech.

GAT (Sec-A)

30%

GAT (Sec-B)

70%

B.F. Tech. Opting for B. Des.

GAT (Sec-A)

30%

CAT

50%

Situation Test

20%

M.F.M.

GAT (Section A and B)

70%

Personal Interview

30%

M. Des.

GAT (Section A)

30%

CAT

40%

Personal Interview

30%

M.F.M. opting for M. Des.

GAT (Section A)

30%

CAT

40%

Personal Interview

30%

M.F. Tech.

GAT

70%

Personal Interview

30%

 

 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are some quick tips to prepare for the NIFT exam?
A: 

Tips for NIFT exam preparation are given below.

  1. Check NIFT exam pattern and syllabus. 
  2. Check the topics and plan accordingly
  3. Make sure you follow only the updated syllabus.
  4. Stay updated with trends, fashion shows, exhibitions, etc.
  5. Make a timetable taking into account the difficulty level of each topic.
  6. Solve sample papers and previous years' question papers.
  7. Practice mock tests.
Q:   What is the NIFT GAT exam pattern for the M.Des program?
A: 

NIFT GAT paper for the M.Des programme include 120 multiple choice questions. The time given for GAT will be 120 minutes. The questions will be set in English and Hindi.

Questions will be asked from Communication Ability, English Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Analytical Ability, and GK and Current Affairs. The Communication Ability, English Comprehension, and Quantitative Ability sections will each include 30 questions, whereas Analytical Ability will have 20 questions, and GK and Current Affairs will have 15 questions. The candidate must strictly follow the official exam pattern only, as questions will be asked from the given syllabus.

Q:   What are the components of NIFT Stage 2 Exam?
A: 

NIFT Stage 2 will have Situation Test and Personal Interview. 

ProgrammeStage 2 Components
B.Des (Bachelor of Design)Situation Test – Model-making, material handling, creativity, innovation
B.Des (NLEA)Studio Test + Personal Interview
B.Des (Artisans)Artisan Skill Test + Personal Interview
B.F.Tech (NLEA)Technical Ability Test (OMR-based) + Personal Interview
PG Programmes (M.Des, M.F.M., M.F.Tech)Personal Interview
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NIFT 2027 Total Marks and Marking Scheme

The written examination for NIFT 2027 has two components:

  1. Creative Ability Test (CAT)
  2. General Ability Test (GAT).

Those seeking admission to the B.Des and M.Des courses need to appear in both CAT and GAT. However, those seeking admission to the B.F.Tech, M.F.Tech, and M.F.M courses only need to take the GAT. The exam patterns for GAT and CAT are explained in detail below. Make sure that you consult the NIFT syllabus in tandem with the exam pattern for effective exam preparation.

Number of Questions in NIFT Entrance Exam

Programme Total Qs Communication Ability & English Comprehension Quantitative Ability (Sec A) Analytical and Logical Ability (Sec A) General Knowledge and Current Affairs
Bachelor of Design 100 40 20 15 25
Bachelor of Fashion Technology 150 40 20 15 25
Bachelor of Fashion Technology and Bachelor of Design 150 40 20 15 25
Bachelor of Design (NLEA) 100 40 20 15 25
Bachelor of Fashion Technology (NLEA) 150 40 20 15 25
Master of Design 120 50 20 25 25
Master of Fashion Management 150 50 20 25 25
Master of Fashion Management and Master of Design 150 50 20 25 25
Master of Fashion Technology 150 45 30 25 25

Check out the number of questions in Quantitative, Logical and CAT.

Programme Total Qs Quantitative Ability (Sec B) Analytical and Logical Ability (Sec B) Case Study (Sec B) CAT (PBT)
Bachelor of Design 100 NA NA NA 3
Bachelor of Fashion Technology 150 15 15 20 NA
Bachelor of Fashion Technology and Bachelor of Design 150 15 15 20 3
Bachelor of Design (NLEA) 100 NA NA NA NA
Bachelor of Fashion Technology (NLEA) 150 15 15 20 NA
Master of Design 120 NA NA NA 3
Master of Fashion Management 150 NA NA 30 NA
Master of Fashion Management and Master of Design 150 NA NA 30 3
Master of Fashion Technology 150 NA NA 25 NA

Pattern for NIFTEE Artisan Category

Check out the pattern and total marks for NIFT Artisan Category.

Component Marks
Artisan Skill Test
70
Visualization of form and space
Innovative and Creative use of material
Composition of Elements
Construction skill and Finesse of the model
Overall presentation
Write-up:
Explanation and Communication of concept
Language
Personal Interview (verification of documents/eligibility) 30

Also Read:

Marking Scheme for NIFTEE 2027 Examinations

Check out the marking scheme for NIFT Stage 1.

  1. Each question carries 01 (One) mark.
  2. For each correct answer, the candidate will get 01 (One) mark.
  3. For each incorrect response, -0.25 mark will be deducted from the total marks.
  4. Unanswered/unattempted will be given no marks.
  5. In case a Question is dropped due to some technical error, full marks shall be given to all the candidates irrespective of the fact who have attempted it or not.

Negative Marking in NIFT 2027

  • In the GAT paper, for every wrong attempt, the candidate will be deducted 25% of the total marks (-0.25 per incorrect answer). So, when attempting the GAT paper, the candidate needs to be judicious before attempting a question if they are unsure about the answer.
  • There is no negative marking for the CAT paper, which is a drawing-based exam.

Also Read:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are the important topics for NIFT Situation Test ?
A: 

Some of the important topics for NIFT Situation Test are:

  • Momentoes
  • Badges
  • product Design
  • Set Design
  • Book Cover/Diaries
  • Window Display: For Shoes, Clothes, etc.
  • Accessories
  • Character Design
Q:   When and where will officials verify original documents for NIFT admission?
A: 

The information provided by the candidate when filling out the NIFT application form will be verified by NIFT officials before any candidate is considered for admission.

The verification of original documents will be conducted at the campus when the candidate reports for the allotted regular programme. When reporting for verification, along with the original documents, the candidate must also bring with them self-attested photocopies. 

 

Q:   Will my candidature for NIFT be cancelled if I select the wrong admission category?
A: 

The candidate has to select their admission category at the time of filling out the NIFT application form. The candidate must make sure that they have the requisite valid and verifiable certificate supporting their category.

The category selected by a candidate at the time of submitting the application form will be considered final.

If a candidate selects a reserved category i.e. SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/EWS/PWD, but fails to submitted a valid Category Certificate, he or she will be considered for open category seats provided any benefit of relaxed age or income or cut offs has not been availed by the candidate at any stage of the Admission Process. If any benefit has been availed, the candidate's application will be rejected. 

Also, if a reserve category candidate is considered for open category, then he/she will have to pay the difference in amount of application fee as applicable for open category.

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NIFT 2027 Important Topics

NIFT Exam for B.Des, B.F.Tech, M.Des, M.F.Tech, MFM includes 5 sections. The sections included in NIFT GAT is given below.

  • Communication Ability and English Comprehension
  • Quantitative Ability
  • Analytical and Logical Ability
  • General Knowledge and Current Affairs
  • Case Study

NIFT GAT Important Topics

The GAT paper will be conducted in a computer-based mode. If you prepare well for the paper, you can score very well. Here, we list the important topics for the paper.

Section

Topics

English

  • Synonyms
  • Antonyms
  • Para jumbles
  • Error spotting
  • One word substitution
  • Work Analogy
  • Sentence completion

Numerical Ability

  • Ratio and Proportion
  • Percentage
  • Profit and loss
  • Simple and Compound interest
  • Average / Ratio
  • Speed, time and distance
  • Work and Time
  • Numbers
  • Area, Volume and Surface Area
  • Permutations and Combinations
  • HCF LCM
  • Probability
  • Time and Work

GK and Current Affairs

  • Static GK
  • Current GK
  • GK related to the fashion industry

Logical Reasoning

  • Series completion
  • Venn Diagrams
  • Seating arrangement
  • Statements Correct/ Incorrect
  • Blood relations
  • Character Puzzle
  • Coding Decoding
  • Data sufficiency
  • Syllogisms
  • Analogy
  • Direction Sense
  • Arithmetic reasoning
  • Clocks and calendar

Communication Ability

  • English Language
  • Grammar
  • Vocabulary and Reading skills 

NIFT CAT Topics

The following topics are expected to be included in the NIFT CAT Syllabus.

  • Creative Ability
  • Power of Observation
  • Intuitive Abilities
  • Concept Development Ability
  • Design Prowess
  • Ability to use colors
  • Illustration skills

Also read: 

Preparation Tips for NIFT Situation Test NIFT Situation Test: Sample Questions to practice, Weightage, Preparation Tips
10 tips to crack interview for design courses at NID, NIFT  How to Prepare For NIFT Situation Test?
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   When will NIFT cutoff be released?
A: 

The National Instituite of Fashion Technology will release the NIFT at the time of seat allotment and counseling.

The cut-offs will be available institute- and category-wise for all the program at nift.admissions.nic.in.

Q:   How will NTA communicate important information about NIFT exam?
A: 

Important or relevant information about the NIFT 2027 exam will be sent by NTA through e-mail on the registered e-mail address and/or through SMS on registered mobile number only. Also, the NTA will not be responsible for any non-communication/ miscommunication with a candidate in the email address or mobile number given by him/her other than his/her own. 

Q:   What is the Format of Stage 2 examination of B.F.Tech. (NLEA)?
A: 

Technical Ability Test (TAT) and Personal Interview will be conducted for NIFT Stage 2 examination of B.F.Tech. (NLEA). The format of the exam will be in paper-based (OMR) format. 

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NIFT Exam Pattern 2027 - FAQs

Go through the frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the NIFT exam pattern here.

Q:   How many questions are asked in NIFT GAT?
A: 

The exam pattern for NIFT GAT varies from one course to another. The total number of questions asked in NIFT GAT is mentioned below: BDes: 100 questions, BFTech: 150 questions, MDes: 120 questions, MFTech: 150 questions, MFM: 150 questions. Note that the GAT or the General Ability Test will be conducted in a computer-based mode. Questions will be objective-type. The GAT paper for the B. Des and M.Des programs will be of 120 minutes. However, the GAT paper for the B.FTech, M.FTech, and MFM courses will be for 180 minutes.

Q:   What is the exam pattern for the NIFT CAT paper?
A: 

Candidates seeking admission to the B. Des and M.Des course also need to take the Creative Ability Test CAT written exam, in addition to the GAT. The CAT exam will be conducted in an offline, pen-pencil mode. CAT will be a drawing-based exam of 3 hours duration. The CAT will evaluate various skills of the candidate including Intuition skill, power of observation, innovation in the development of a concept as well as design ability. Further, it will examine the creative as well as innovative use of color and illustration skills of aspirants. It is mandatory for B. Des and M.Des candidates to appear in the CAT paper, or else they will not be invited for the Situation Test.

Q:   What is NIFT Situation Test?
A: 

NIFT Situation Test is a hands on test. It evaluates a candidate skills for material handling and innovative ability with a given set of materials. Candidates are required to make a 3D model.

Q:   When do I need to start my preparation for NIFT 2027 exam?
A: 

NIFT exam is among the most competitive and the toughest. So, it is recommended that candidate start their exam preparation in advance, around 1 year before.

Q:   Is there negative marking in NIFT Situation Test?
A: 

No, there is no negative marking in NIFT Situation Test. Negative marking is only there in NIFT GAT part in stage 1.

Q:   What is NIFT exam pattern for the B.FTech program?
A: 

The participating institutes of NIFTs offer a 4-year B.FTech programme. Admission to the programme is based on GAT scores.

  • The NIFT GAT question paper for the programme will be approximately 180 minutes and will be bilingual.
  • Candidates will have the option to take the exam either in English or Hindi.
  •  The question type will be multiple-choice.
  • The question paper will have a total of 150 questions.
  • Questions will be asked from the following FIVE sections - Communication Ability and Comprehension, Case Study, Quantitative Ability, Analytical & Logical Ability, and GK and Current Affairs. The mode of NIFT exam for the GAT paper will be a computer-based test (or CBT).
Q:   What is the exam pattern for NIFT Situation Test?
A: 

Candidates will be shortlisted for NIFT Situation Test on the basis of their performance in NIFTEE exams. Situation Test will test material handling and innovative ability of the candidate. Some of factors that will be checked include Space Visualization, Innovative and creative use of given material, the composition of elements, color scheme, construction skill, the finesse of the model and overall presentation.

 

Q:   How many sample papers do I need to prepare for NIFT?
A: 

For NIFT Preparation, candidates need to solve 30-40 sample papers in 6 months. When the exams are very near, one sample paper should be solved daily.

Q:   What is NIFT Write Up?
A: 

After completing NIFT 3D model in Situation Test, candidates are required to write a brief explanation of model. This is known as Write Up. It should be clear, concise and structured. It should explain process, inspiration, theme and materials.

Q:   Where can I download NIFT sample papers?
A: 

Candidates can download the official sample papers from the official NIFT website. The sample papers are available in the form of PDFs.

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