Will the authorities accept objections against the NATA answer key?

No. The authorities will not accept any objections against NATA answer key. Candidates will not be able to access any facility through which they will be able to send their objections or requests for review. Answer key will be prepared carefully by CoA authorities and will be final. If the candidates have any issues regarding the NATA answer key, then they can contact the authorities, however, objections against the answer key will not be accepted.

What are the steps to calculate the scores using NATA answer key?

Candidates will be able to use NATA answer key to calculate their probable obtained scores before the official results are declared. First, candidates will have to download the answer key and compare it to their personal responses. The official marking scheme as per the official NATA exam pattern has to be followed during the calculation process. The final calculated scores will be the probable marks secured by the candidates in the examination. It is to be noted that the calculated marks are indicative and my differ from the results.

What are the steps to download the NATA answer key?

NATA answer key will be available online at nata.in. Candidates will be able to access NATA answer key by logging in using the credentials. No other mode will be used to release NATA answer key. Steps to be followed to download NATA answer key is given below. Go to nata.in. Click on answer key link. Candidates will have to provide application number and password. Click on Login. The answer key will be displayed on the screen. Candidates can download the answer key for future use.

How long is NATA score valid for?

NATA score is valid for two academic years. With their obtained scores, candidates will only be able to apply for colleges in that admission year and the following year. The score will be invalid if candidates use it for admissions after two years. If the candidates wish to apply for admissions after two years, then they will be required to retake the entrance examination. Requests for extension of the score validity will not be entertained by the authorities. Therefore, the candidates are advised to immediately apply for admissions after they receive their scores.

Which NATA score will be considered for B.Arch admission if I have appeared for all the sessions?

Candidates will be eligible to apply and attempt one or more sessions of NATA. In case a candidate appears for 2 tests, the best of the 2 scores shall be the valid score and in the case of more than 2 attempts, the valid score shall be the average of the best scores. All candidates will be required to mandatory qualify at least one session of NATA to be eligible for B.Arch admissions into the respective Architecture colleges and institutes. Candidates are advised to attempt as many sessions as they can to have a higher chance of securing good scores.

When will NATA 2026 result be announced?

Candidates can now check the NATA result 2026 at nata.in. Candidates will be able to access the NATA result online by logging in using the required details. No other mode will be used to declare the result. Separate results will be released for every examination date. Candidates who qualify NATA will be considered eligible for BArch admissions. No common counselling will be held by CoA.

When will NATA 2026 admit card be available?

NATA 2026 admit card is now available online at nata.in. Candidates will be able to access their NATA admit card 2026 using the required credentials 2-3 days before their selected exam slot. The authorities will not use any other mode to release the admit card of NATA 2026. While reporting at the exam centres, the candidates are required to bring their NATA admit card and identity proof.

How to download the NATA admit card?

NATA 2026 admit card will be available online on official website. No other mode will be used to declare NATA admit card 2026. To access admit card, candidates will have to open the official website and click on admit card link. Registered email ID and password has to be provided and submitted. Next, NATA 2026 admit card will be displayed on screen. Candidates are advised to check all of the provided details before downloading the admit card. Since NATA admit card is an important document, candidates are advised to download and print it for future use.

What identity proofs are to be produced at the exam centre along with the NATA admit card?

While reporting at NATA exam centres, candidate are expected to bring certain documents. Along with NATA admit card, the candidates will have to present their government photo identity proof. If the candidates fail to bring the documents, then they will not be allowed to enter the examination centre. Some of the identity proofs that are approved by the authorities are: Passport Aadhaar Card Voter ID PAN Card School ID

When will NATA 2026 be conducted?

NATA 2026 will be conducted from March 2026, to June 2026. Candidates can attempt NATA 2026 a maximum of three times and best of the three scores will be considered for admission. This exam will be conducted on designated Fridays and Saturdays. One session is on Friday and two sessions are on Saturday. It is both offline and a computer-based test (CBT). The duration of the test is 180 minutes or 3 hours.

I have not studied Mathematics in my 12th standard qualifying examination. Am I eligible for NATA?

As per NATA eligibility criteria, candidates must pass Mathematics as in 12th standard or equivalent qualifying examination. If candidates did not study Mathematics, they are not eligible for NATA. They should carefully check official NATA eligibility criteria before applying for NATA. Ineligible candidates will not be allowed to participate in the examination process.

What are some important last minute preparation tips for NATA?

Candidates should be very careful during final few days of preparation before examination. Candidates can check and follow some of the last minute preparation tips to have a higher chance of performing well. They should not start new topics few days before examination. They should revise what they have earlier studied and strengthen concepts. Mock tests must be attempted regularly. This will help them to track their current progress and commonly made mistakes. Candidates should ensure that they take enough rest and are healthy both physically and mentally.

Can I know about NATA counselling process?

There is no common counselling process for NATA qualified candidates. For BArch admissions, the candidates will have to individually apply to their preferred institutes. The dates and guidelines regarding the BArch admissions will be released by the respective authorities. Majority of the Architecture institutes offer admissions based on NATA scores so the candidates will have many options to select from. The candidates are advised to keep checking the official websites of their preferred institutes for any updates regarding the counselling and admission dates.

Which documents will be required for BArch admissions through NATA?

Candidates will be required to verify documents while applying for BArch admissions at various institutes through NATA scores. The list of documents to be verified may vary as per the institute that candidate has applied for; however, the basic documents that have to be prepared and may be required for verification are - NATA admit card and score card, 10th and 12th standard mark sheets and pass certificates, ID proof and passport photograph. If applicable, candidates will also have to present category and domicile certificates.

Where can I get information about counselling on the basis of NATA scores?

CoA does not conduct any common counselling process for NATA qualified candidates. Therefore, the candidates will have to check the official website of their preferred institute for the admission process based on NATA scores. Candidates with a valid NATA score will be eligible for state-level and private institute admissions. The details regarding the admission process will vary as per the institute that the candidate is applying for.

Does NATA syllabus overlap with JEE Main Paper 2?

Yes, NATA and JEE Main Paper 2 syllabi overlap. The candidates planning to appear for both exams can compare the syllabus and do the studies. The type of questions asked in the exam differs; therefore, the candidates can plan and study accordingly.

When will NATA 2026 application form be available?

NATA 2026 registration will start in February 2026. Candidates can fill out the NATA application form 2026 online at nata.in. The authorities do not accept offline applications for NATA 2026. All of the details submitted in the application form have to be valid and as per the documents possessed by the candidates. The required fee has to be paid online.

Can I change my exam centre after downloading the NATA admit card?

No, after release of NATA admit card, candidates will not be allowed to change the exam centre. Exam centres will be allotted as per the preferences submitted in the admit card by the candidates. Therefore, candidates are advised to be careful while selecting their choice of exam centres in NATA application form. After the preferences are submitted, authorities will not allow any requests for a change of centres.

Which are the exam centres of NATA?

NATA will be conducted by CoA at proctored assessment centres, which will be spread across all major cities of India and Dubai. In total, the authorities are expected to conduct NATA in 61 centres in India and international centres. CoA will release the list of NATA 2026 exam cities online at nata.in. Candidates will have to select their choice of exam cities in order of preference. Allotment of exam centres will be done based on preferences and seat availability. After the exam centres are allotted, no changes will be accepted.

What is the syllabus for NATA exam?

NATA syllabus has been released online at nata.in. The candidates are advised to check the official NATA syllabus to understand what needs to be studied for the entrance examination. The topics to be studied are - Composition and Colour, Sketching and Composition (Black and White), 3D Composition, Visual Reasoning, Logical Derivation, GK Architecture and Design, Language Interpretation, Design Sensitivity, Design Thinking and Numerical Ability.

Are Mathematics and Drawing included in the NATA syllabus?

While Mathematics is not included in the NATA syllabus, CoA has reintroduced the Drawing section. As per the current pattern of NATA, the examination will consist of two sections - Drawing and Composition and MCQ sections. Candidates are advised to be well prepared as per their syllabus for the examination.

Is NATA syllabus important for the examination preparation?

Yes. NATA syllabus is very important for the examination preparation as it will allow the candidates to have a first-hand experience to know which topics and units have to studied. By knowing the syllabus beforehand, the candidates will be able to take the necessary measures that are required to complete it well before the entrance examination. Ideally, the candidates are expected to finish studying and revising the NATA syllabus before the examination.

Do I need to study the entire NATA syllabus?

Yes. Candidates are advised to study the entire NATA syllabus. By studying entire NATA syllabus, candidates will have a higher chance of performing well and securing good scores in entrance examination. The candidates are advised to check official syllabus to know which topics and units have to be studied to prepare for the upcoming entrance examination. Since objective of the entrance examination is to assess the candidate's aptitude, they are advised to be well prepared accordingly for the examination.

Will there be a drawing section in NATA paper?

Yes. The CoA has added the drawing and composition section in the NATA paper. During the examination, the candidates will have to attempt questions on composition and colour, sketching and composition (black and white) and 3D composition. All three questions have to attempted within 90 minutes. Therefore, the candidates are advised to carefully prepare for the drawing and composition section.

What are the NATA 2026 assessment factors?

Candidates will be checked on various factors during NATA 2026. Authorities will prepare NATA 2026 question paper after considering various assessement factors - Inductive Reasoning (ability to analyze data and patterns), Diagrammatic Reasoning (ability to analyze drawings and use logical reasoning), Numerical Reasoning (ability to solve simple numerical problems), Verbal Reasoning (verbal logic), Situational Judgment (problem-solving abilities), Abstract Reasoning (general knowledge and their ability to apply it in situations) and Logical Reasoning (ability to recognise patterns, relationships, sequences and more).

What is the medium of NATA paper?

As per NATA exam pattern, medium of the question paper will be English and Hindi. The candidates will be able to know detailed information regarding the medium of languages through the NATA 2025 question paper. In case candidates face any problems during examination, they can request help from the invigilators.

What after NATA results.

After NATA results are announced by the authorities of CoA, the candidates will have two options. First, if the candidate is not satisfied with their obtained scores, then they can apply to attempt the remaining examination sessions of NATA. If the candidate is satisfied with their obtained score or there is no more attempts left, then they can apply for admissions into their preferred institute. Since there is no common counselling conducted by CoA, the candidates will have to apply individually to their preferred colleges/institutes.

Is NATA held in international centres? Is the application fee different for the international exam centres?

Yes, the authorities will conduct NATA in international centres. The entrance exam is expected to be held in Dubai, Doha, Muscat, Riyadh and Khaitan. In the previous year, NATA was conducted in 8 international centres. The application fee for international exam centres is higher. For one attempt, the NATA application fee is INR 10,000, while for two attempts, the fee is INR 20,000. If the candidates want to attempt all three sessions, then the application fee is INR 27,000. It must be noted that the international cities has to be first choice and cannot be selected as second or third choice of exam city.

Will all details be open for editing through the NATA application correction facility?

No. The candidates have to note that not all details will be open for editing through the NATA application correction facility. Some of the basic details such as name, date of birth, email address and more will not be open for editing/correction. Therefore, the candidates are advised to be careful while filling out the NATA application form. Candidates will be able to edit their categories and the number of papers opted for, however, they will be required to pay the fee difference.

Which details have to be kept ready before filling out the NATA application form?

Keep important documents like mobile number, valid email address, credit or debit card/net banking and other academic information ready to fill NATA application form. A passport-size photograph and scanned-signature is also required as per specifications of official authorities.

Is there a negative marking in NATA?

There is no negative marking for wrong answers in NATA. So, candidates can answer questions without worry of losing marks.

What type of questions will be present in the NATA paper?

NATA paper will be prepared to assess the aptitude of the candidates for BArch admissions. Within the 3 hour duration, the candidates will have to attempt a total of 48 questions. NATA questions will be Multiple-Choice type (MCQ), Drawing and Composition. The question paper will be prepared so that the candidates can be assessed on basic concepts in mathematics, Physics and Geometry, language and interpretation, elements and principles of design, aesthetic sensitivity, colour theory, lateral thinking and logical reasoning, visual perception and cognition, graphics and imagery, building anatomy and architectural vocabulary, basic techniques of building construction and knowledge of material, general knowledge and Current Affairs etc. and may not be limited to those outlined.

How are the sections divided in the NATA 2026 question paper?

NATA 2026 question paper will have two sections. First section will be conducted as an offline test and will have drawing and composition questions. The second section will have MCQs. The questions will be prepared to check candidate's basic conceptual knowledge in various subjects that are important in architectural field. A total of 48 questions will be in NATA question paper.

What is the objective of NATA?

CoA conducts NATA annually to select candidats who are eligible for BArch admission into the participating institutes. Through the examination, the candidate's innate ability will be assessed using a variety of testing formats and questions. NATA will also help to measure the candidate's aptitude for a specific field of study i.e., Architecture, through assessment of cognitive skills, visual perception and aesthetic sensitivity tests, logical reasoning and critical thinking ability, etc., besides the learning that the candidate has acquired over the past few years and is related to the specific field of study.

Will the NATA application fee be refunded for any valid reason?

No, The authorities will not entertain any requests regarding the refund the NATA application fee for any reason. The candidates will also not be able to request for adjustments in the NATA application fee as it is fixed by the authorities. Only if the examination is canceled, then the authorities will refund the application fee. Therefore, the candidates are advised to fill out and pay the application fee carefully. NATA application fee can be paid online through net banking/credit card/debit card/ICICI Sure Bank Challan.

Will NATA be held online?

NATA will be conducted by the authorities as an online i.e., computer-based and offline test. The MCQ section will be held as a computer-based test, while the drawing and composition test will be held as an offline test. CoA will conduct NATA at various centres. All registered candidates will have to report to their allotted centres and attempt the examination through the systems provided there. The detailed information regarding NATA exam pattern has been announced online.

What is the minimum qualifying marks in NATA?

Minimum qualifying marks in NATA change slightly every year. Approximate marks required to clear NATA are provided below. Qualifying Marks: Candidates must score minimum of 70 out of 200 marks in NATA exam to qualify, regardless of category. This is the standard passing mark for each attempt of exam. In addition, there will be a separate minimum score for each section.

What after NATA results.

After NATA results are announced by the authorities of CoA, the candidates will have two options. First, if the candidate is not satisfied with their obtained scores, then they can apply to attempt the remaining examination sessions of NATA. If the candidate is satisfied with their obtained score or there is no more attempts left, then they can apply for admissions into their preferred institute. Since there is no common counselling conducted by CoA, the candidates will have to apply individually to their preferred colleges/institutes.

What is the syllabus for Logical Reasoning section of NATA exam?

The syllabus of the logical reasoning section of NATA will have the following topics included. Understanding the pattern Logical Sequences Critical Reasoning

Is there any provision to reschedule the NATA exam date?

No, candidates cannot reschedule NATA exam date as per their wish. Since this exam will be held for candidate as per their selected slot, they need to report to exam centres on examination date. In case of any issues, authorities have provision to reschedule the examination date.

Which are the best books for preparation of NATA exam?

Candidates are advised to refer to the best materials while preparing for NATA. By checking the best books for NATA, the candidates will have access to the knowledge required to perform well in the entrance examination. Some of the subject-wise best books for NATA are given below. Algebra - Higher Algebra by Hall and Knight Reasoning - A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Agarwal General - NATA & B.Arch Question Bank by Ar. Shadan Usmani Mathematical Problems - Problems in Mathematics by V Govorov, P.Dybov, N.Miroshin and S.Smirnova Quantitative Aptitude - Quantitative Aptitude by R.S Aggarwal

What are the NATA 2026 assessment factors?

Candidates will be checked on various factors during NATA 2026. Authorities will prepare NATA 2026 question paper after considering various assessement factors - Inductive Reasoning (ability to analyze data and patterns), Diagrammatic Reasoning (ability to analyze drawings and use logical reasoning), Numerical Reasoning (ability to solve simple numerical problems), Verbal Reasoning (verbal logic), Situational Judgment (problem-solving abilities), Abstract Reasoning (general knowledge and their ability to apply it in situations) and Logical Reasoning (ability to recognise patterns, relationships, sequences and more).

How can I create a good timetable for NATA preparation?

Creating a timetable is very important for preparation process of NATA. Students are advised to prepare a timetable that will allow them to complete syllabus well before the examination. While creating timetable, candidates should ensure that the entire syllabus is equally distributed. The subjects and topics should be divided well so that the candidates cover different units in a day and the studying process does not become monotonous. The daily study routine should also include revision and mock test. It is very important that the timetable is created considering the aptitude of the candidate.

What are some of the important last minute preparation tips for NATA?

Final days before examination are very crucial since candidate's progress during this time determines result. Candidates should give their best during these final days to perform well in the examination. Some of the best last minute preparation tips for NATA are as follows: Do not start any new topics a few days before the entrance examination since this can lead to confusion. Candidates should revise what they earlier studied to strengthen concepts. Candidates should attempt mock tests regularly. This will allow candidates to assess preparation progress and identify commonly made mistakes. Through mock tests, time management skills are also improved. They should be well-rested to stay both physically and mentally fit for the examination.

NATA 2026: Registration, Exam Dates, Result , Pattern, Syllabus, Eligibility Criteria

4.5K Students Q&A

Updated on Jan 5, 2026 17:07 IST

By Dhanya B

NATA 2026 Exam: NATA 2026 application form is expected to be released in February 2026. Candidates can access NATA 2026 registration link from official website, nata.in. NATA application form 2026 must be submitted by candidates before last date to appear for NATA Architecture Exam. Candidates must keep track of application form window to avoid missing last date to apply. NATA 2026 admit card will be available online 2-3 days before examination slot selected by candidates. NATA Exam will be conducted multiple times a year. NATA 2026 exam will be conducted on every Friday and Saturday from July to August 2026. Candidates can attempt a maximum of three sessions of NATA 2026. The best score of 3 attempts will be considered for admission.

Qualifying in NATA 2026 is mandatory for admission to BArch degree offered by various colleges across India. No common counselling will be conducted for NATA 2026 qualified candidates. NATA question paper will have two sections: Drawing and Composition (online test) and MCQ section (offline test). Scores and ranks got in entrance exam can be checked through NATA 2026 result. Read to know about NATA 2026.

Table of contents

What is NATA?
NATA 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule
NATA 2026 Highlights
Registration Details of NATA 2026
How to check NATA Result 2026
NATA Exam Syllabus
Test Paper Pattern of NATA entrance exam
NATA Study Plan 2026
NATA Hall Ticket Download
NATA Answer Key 2026
NATA 2026 Counselling
Previous Years' NATA Statistics
NATA 2026 Contact Information

What is NATA?

NATA 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule

Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of NATA 2026 exam

Dates	Upcoming Exam Dates
Feb ' 26	NATA 2026 application form start date TENTATIVE
Mar ' 26 - Aug ' 26	NATA 2026 exam dates TENTATIVE
Apr ' 26	NATA 2026 result TENTATIVE
Aug ' 26	NATA 2026 additional exam dates TENTATIVE