How to Get Into NIFT?: NIFT Qualification, Eligibility, Entrance Criteria Explained

Looking to turn your creative instincts into a full-fledged degree? NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Technology) is the perfect place for that! If you’re wondering how to get in, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. Every year, thousands of aspirants try to crack the NIFT entrance exam to secure a spot in its UG and PG programs. Curious about eligibility, qualifications, age limits, or the admission process? This blog answers all your questions in one place. Let’s dive in!

How to Get Into NIFT?: NIFT Admission Process

Getting admission into NIFT involves more than just filling out a form. It’s a structured process that evaluates your creativity, aptitude, and design skills. Here’s a breakdown of the NIFT admission process in simple steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility Criteria

• Before applying, do make sure you meet the NIFT qualification requirements.
• For NIFT UG programs, candidates must have completed 10+2 from a recognised board.
• For PG programs, a bachelor’s degree in any discipline is required.
• Verify the NIFT age limit (important for UG aspirants).

Step 2: Fill the NIFT Application Form

• Register online through the official NIFT website.
• Fill in personal, academic, and contact details carefully.
• Upload documents, photographs, and signatures as per the guidelines.
• Pay the application fee online to complete registration.

Step 3: Appear for the NIFT Entrance Exam

• The entrance exam consists of the CAT (Creative Ability Test) and GAT (General Ability Test).
• For B.Des applicants: CAT + GAT.
• For B.FTech applicants: Only GAT.
• For PG courses: GAT + Group Discussion/Personal Interview.

Step 4: Situation Test (for B.Des Applicants)

• Shortlisted candidates from the written test appear for the Situation Test.
• This is a hands-on test to evaluate creativity, material handling, and innovative thinking.

Step 5: Group Discussion/Personal Interview (for PG Applicants)

• Candidates applying for M.Des, M.FTech, or MFM need to go through GD/PI rounds.
• Evaluates communication, analytical, and managerial skills.

Step 6: Check Result and Merit List

• NIFT releases results and a final merit list based on written tests, Situation Test (UG), and GD/PI (PG).
• Candidates are ranked according to performance in each stage.

Step 7: NIFT Counselling and Seat Allotment

• Qualified candidates are invited for online/offline counselling.
• You can choose your preferred course and campus based on your rank.
• Once the seat is allotted, pay the admission fee to confirm.

Step 8: Final Admission

• Report to the allotted campus with all necessary documents.
• After verification, your admission is confirmed, and you officially begin your journey at NIFT.

NIFT Eligibility & Qualification Criteria

Before applying for the NIFT entrance exam, it’s essential to understand the complete NIFT eligibility criteria. Here’s a complete breakdown of eligibility for the NIFT entrance exam for both undergraduate and postgraduate aspirants:

NIFT Qualification for UG Courses

• Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognised board.
• Students from any stream (Science, Commerce, Arts, Humanities) are eligible.
• Those awaiting their 12th results can also apply provisionally.

Applies to: B.Des (Bachelor of Design) and B.FTech (Bachelor of Fashion Technology).

NIFT Qualification for PG Courses

• For M.Des (Master of Design): A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
• For M.FTech (Master of Fashion Technology): B.FTech from NIFT or a B.E./B.Tech degree from a recognised institute.
• For MFM (Master of Fashion Management): A bachelor’s degree in any discipline, or a 3-year undergraduate diploma from NIFT/NID.

Applies to: M.Des, M.FTech, MFM programs.

NIFT Age Limit

• NIFT UG Courses: The maximum age limit is 24 years as of August 1 of the admission year.
  • Relaxation: 5 years for candidates belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories.
• PG Courses: There is no age limit for applying to postgraduate programs.

Nationality Criteria

• Indian citizens are eligible.
• Foreign nationals, NRIs, and SAARC candidates can apply through the NIFT admissions for the international students category.

Eligibility for NIFT Entrance Exam – Quick Summary Table

NIFT Entrance Criteria

The NIFT entrance exam is the gateway to securing admission into India’s top fashion design institute. It is designed to test not only academic knowledge but also creativity, problem-solving, and design aptitude. Understanding the NIFT entrance criteria is crucial before you start your prep.

Key NIFT Entrance Criteria

• Candidates must meet the NIFT eligibility and qualification criteria before applying.
• Only candidates who clear the written tests (CAT/GAT) will be shortlisted for the next stage (Situation Test/GD/PI).
• Performance in all stages is combined to prepare the final NIFT merit list.
• The exam is conducted once a year in January/February in various centres across India.

NIFT Admission 2026 – Important Dates & Updates

Based on last year’s trends, here are the key dates and updates for the NIFT 2026 admission process. Remember, these are tentative dates and based on the previous year’s trends. However, always double-check with nift.ac.in when the official schedule is released.