Design Entrance Exam

In the scenario where two or more candidates score the same marks in NIFT, the tie-breaker policy will be applied.

1. The marks scored by the candidate in tests with higher weightage will be considered to break the tie. For example, for the B. Des programme, marks obtained in the CAT exam will be compared to break the tie.
2. If the marks obtained in the CAT are equal, then marks obtained in GAT will be considered.
3. If tie is undecided, then subject-wise marks in the following order will be considered: Communication Ability, English Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Analytical Ability &General Knowledge and Current Affairs.

The National Institute of Fashion Technology offers M.Des MFM and M.FTech courses at its 18 campuses. Admission to these courses are on the basis of NIFT 2025 merit ranks. The final merit rank of NIFT 2025 for the M.Des programme will be prepared by giving weightage to CAT (40%), CAT (30%), and Interview (30%). In case of the M.FTech and MFM courses, the GAT carries 70% weightage, while the Interview carries 30% weightage. Note that MFM and M.FTech candidates don't need to take the CAT Test.

The NIDs have a combined intake of 425 seats for the B. Des programme. Of these, 45 seats are earmarked for the Industrial Design programme. The candidate can select from specializations like Ceramic and Glass Design, Furniture & Interior Design, and Product Design. The candidate will be able to select the programme of specialisation at the time of counselling. 

The NID DAT 2026 Studio Test and Interview for the M.Des program will be conducted from in the first week of March 2026. Candidates will be shortlisted for DAT Mains on the basis of their performance in DAT Prelims.

The Studio Test and Interview will be conducted programme-wise from. Candidates who have qualified DAT prelims are eligible to appear in DAT Mains, which comprise a Studio Test and Interview for the M.Des programme. The Studio Test is usually conducted from 9 am - 12 noon. The Interview will be conducted after the completion of the studio test.