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NIFT Delhi Admission 2026: Eligibility, Dates, Fees, and Application Process
location
Delhi, Delhi NCR
Updated on 25 June 2026

Securing a seat for NIFT Delhi Admission 2026 requires thorough preparation and understanding of the application process, eligibility criteria, and key dates. Aspiring fashion and design students must navigate a competitive selection journey to join one of India's premier design institutions. This comprehensive guide details everything from course eligibility and fees to the entrance exam pattern and application steps for 2026.

Table of Contents

NIFT Delhi Admission 2026 Overview: Key Dates and Process Highlights

NIFT Delhi Admission for 2026 offers a structured process for various UG, PG, and PhD programs. Key dates for the NIFT Entrance Examination and subsequent stages are crucial for prospective students. This overview details the admission calendar, seat distribution, and essential contact information.

ActivitiesTimeline
Online Registration08th December, 2025
Last date for Online Registration06th January, 2026
Online registration with late fee of Rs. 5000/- (In addition to the applicable application fee)07th to 10th January, 2026
Window to edit/update the application form12th to 14th January, 2026
Admit Card (Online only)Third week of January, 2026
Entrance Examination (for B.Des, B.F.Tech, M.Des, M.F.M, M.F.Tech, NLEA)8th February, 2026
Answer Key for GAT Examination only (using registered user ID & password)February, 2026
Result of Entrance Examination*March/April, 2026
Situation Test (Regular) / Studio Test, Personal Interview & documents verification (NLEA) at Test CentresApril/May, 2026
Declaration of Final Result (Online)May, 2026
Seat AllocationMay-June 2026

This calendar provides a clear timeline for the NIFT Delhi Admission process for UG/PG programs, from initial registration to the final seat allocation.

  • NIFT Delhi Status: Flagship campus, established in 1987
  • Location: Hauz Khas, Near Gulmohar Park, New Delhi, India 110016
  • Campus Area: 7 acres
  • Total Regular Seats (2026): 376
  • NRI/Foreign National/OCI/PIO/SAARC Seats (2026): 5 supernumerary seats each academic programme

The general admission process involves the NIFT Entrance Examination (NIFTEE), comprising Stage 1 and Stage 2, followed by e-Counselling for seat allocation. Other steps include physical assessment for PwD candidates and provisional allotment for NRI/Foreign Nationals/OCI/SAARC categories. Admit cards, results, and seat allocation schedules are published on the NIFT website only.

  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des) programs: 6 specializations, 38 seats each
  • Bachelor of Fashion Technology (B.F.Tech): Apparel Production (38 seats)
  • Master of Design (M.Des) program: 38 seats
  • Master of Fashion Management (M.F.M) program: 38 seats

The PhD admission process involves submitting a completed application form with a research proposal, followed by a written test and personal interview for shortlisted candidates. Master's degree holders with 10 years of professional experience or valid UGC NET, CEED, CSIR (JRF) scores are exempted from the written test. Online registration for PhD also begins on December 8, 2025, with the last date on February 28, 2026. The entrance examination is in April, research proposal presentation and interview in June, and final results declared in July.

  • Orientation for New UG and PG Students (2026-27): Commences on July 29, 2026
  • NTA Helpdesk Contact: 011-69227700, 011-40759000 (Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
  • NTA Helpdesk Email ID: nift@nta.ac.in
  • NIFT Helpline Contact: 9310075593, 9310076577, 9310078175 (Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

How to Apply for NIFT Delhi Admission 2026: Step-by-Step Online Application

The online application process for NIFT Delhi Admission 2026 begins on December 8, 2025, offering various programmes for UG/PG candidates. This section details the step-by-step guide for online registration, important dates, application fees, and required documents to ensure a smooth application experience.

  • Online Registration Start Date: 08th December, 2025
  • Last Date for Online Registration: 06th January, 2026
  • Online Registration with Late Fee: 07th to 10th January, 2026
  • Window to Edit/Update Application Form: 12th to 14th January, 2026
  • Application Fee for General/OBC/GEN-EWS: INR 3,000
  • Application Fee for SC/ ST/ PwD: INR 1,500

Prospective candidates for NIFT Delhi Admission should note the critical deadlines for registration, including the late fee period (with an additional Rs. 5000/-), and the specific application fees based on their category. Ensure all details are finalized before the editing window closes.

CategoryDescription
Step 1: Enter AADHAR Number and Create Login IDClick on the application tab, enter AADHAR Number, fill Parent's name, Email ID, Mobile Number. Details provided here cannot be modified later.
Step 2: Fill in the NIFT Application FormLog in, fill chosen Test Centre, Personal Information (parents' names, gender, nationality, domicile), Address, and Academic Qualification.
Step 3: Upload DocumentsUpload signature and photograph in the prescribed format.
Step 4: Pay the Application FeePay online using Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
Document: PhotographUpload a recently scanned passport-size color photograph (max 100KB, jpeg). Facial features should occupy 80%, no parts covered, no spectacles/glare.
Document: SignatureScanned signature in Blue/Black ink on white background (max 100KB, jpeg). Mobile phone photographs are not acceptable.

NIFT Delhi UG & PG Courses 2026: Eligibility Criteria and Seat Matrix

Prospective students for NIFT Delhi Admission in 2026 should review the eligibility criteria and seat matrix. UG programs require applicants to be less than 24 years old as of August 1, 2024 (with age relaxation for reserved categories), while PG programs have no upper age limit. Board exam candidates can also apply.

ProgrammeTotal Seats
Bachelor of Design (Accessory Design - AD)38
Bachelor of Design (Fashion Communication - FC)38
Bachelor of Design (Fashion Design - FD)38
Bachelor of Design (Knitwear Design - KD)38
Bachelor of Design (Leather Design - LD)38
Bachelor of Design (Textile Design - TD)38
Bachelor of Fashion Technology (Apparel Production - B.F.Tech)38
Master of Design (M.Des)38
Master of Fashion Management (M.F.M)38
Master of Fashion Technology (M.F.Tech)0
NRI/Foreign National/OCI/SAARC Supernumerary Seats5

The table above outlines the NIFT Delhi regular and supernumerary seat matrix for 2026 across various undergraduate and postgraduate programs. For specific educational qualifications, B.Des requires a 10+2 pass, B.F.Tech mandates Mathematics, and the academic session for new students begins with orientation on July 29, 2026.

NIFT Delhi Admission Fees 2026: Course-wise Structure and Payment Details

The NIFT Delhi Admission fees for 2026 vary by course and program duration. The overall NIFT Delhi fees range from Rs 3,12,000 to Rs 6,79,000 per annum, with total fees for 4-year UG programs (2024-25) estimated at Rs 13.5 - 14.8 L. This section details the course-wise structure and payment specifics for NIFT Delhi Admission.

List of CourseYearsAmount payable
B Des (Bachelor of Design )4 years13,49,400
B. F. Tech (Bachelor of Fashion Tech)4 years13,49,400
MFM: (Master of Fashion Management)2 years6,21,200
M.F. Tech: (Master of Fashion Tech)2 years6,21,200
M.Des (Master of Design)2 years6,21,200

This table outlines the total NIFT Delhi Admission fees for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses, showing consistent pricing across programs of the same duration.

ParticularsSemester 3 (2026-27)Semester 4 (2026-27)
Tuition Fee (Non-Refundable)158000158000
Library Fee (Non-Refundable Per Year Payment)105000
Mediclaim & Student Development Fee (Non-Refundable Per Year Payment)51000
Exam Fee (Per Year)51000
Total (Academic Fee)178700158000
Security Deposit (Refundable)00
Alumni Association Membership Fee (Non-Refundable)00
Registration Fee (One Time)00
Total (One Time Payments)00
Grand Total178700158000

The semester-wise breakdown for Non-NRI UG candidates reveals higher fees in Semester 3 due to annual payments for library, mediclaim, and examination fees.

ParticularsSemester 3 (2026-27)Semester 4 (2026-27)
Tuition Fee (Non-Refundable)143000143000
Library Fee (Non-Refundable Per Year Payment)95000
Mediclaim & Student Development Fee (Non-Refundable Per Year Payment)47000
Exam Fee (Per Year)47000
Total (Academic Fee)161900143000
Security Deposit (Refundable)00
Alumni Association Membership Fee (Non-Refundable)56000
Registration Fee (One Time)00
Total (One Time Payments)56000
Grand Total167500143000

For Non-NRI PG candidates, Semester 3 fees are higher due to annual and one-time payments, including the Alumni Association Membership Fee.

The overall NIFT Delhi fees range from Rs 3,12,000 to Rs 6,79,000 per annum, with an approximate total of Rs 4 lakh to Rs 12 lakh varying by degree. Total fees for 4-year UG programs (2024-25 schedules) are Rs 13.5 - 14.8 L.

  • Tuition: Non-Refundable NIFT fees.
  • Library: Annual membership fees (Non-Refundable).
  • Mediclaim & Development: For Medical Insurance and Infrastructure.
  • Examination: Annual fees, semester-wise (Non-Refundable).
  • Security & Registration: Deposit and Registration fees.
  • Association Fees: Students' Association membership fees.

Fee payment for Indian Residentials is required each semester. NIFT Delhi Hostel Fees annually range from 1 to 1.5 Lakhs.

  • Hostel Fee Components: Refundable and non-refundable security deposits, electricity, and service charges.
  • Hostel Fee Factors: Room type (AC/Non-AC, occupancy), room/dorm, and hosteller status.

Please note that NIFT fees may change annually at the institute's discretion. It is advisable to monitor official notifications on the institute's website for the latest updates.

NIFT Entrance Exam 2026: Pattern, Syllabus, and Preparation Tips

The NIFT Entrance Exam 2026 assesses both logical and creative abilities, crucial for NIFT Delhi Admission. It comprises two main components: the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and the General Ability Test (GAT), designed to evaluate a diverse range of skills essential for design and fashion programs.

  • Exam Nature: Tests both left brain (logic/math) and right brain (creativity).
  • Exam Components: Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT).
  • CAT Applicability: For B.Des & M.Des only.
  • CAT Format: Pen-and-paper drawing test.
  • CAT Duration: 3 Hours.
  • GAT Applicability: For All Courses.

These tests cover various aspects of aptitude and knowledge. Understanding the detailed syllabus for each section and implementing effective preparation strategies is key for successful NIFT Delhi Admission.

Section/CategoryDetails/Syllabus
CAT Focus/SyllabusIntuition, skill, power of observation, innovation in concept development, design ability, sketching, coloring, 3D visualization, and visual communication.
GAT Syllabus - Quantitative AbilityAddition, Multiplication, Division, Fractions, Percentage, Rate of Interest, Work and Task, Ratio and Proportion, and Distance.
GAT Syllabus - Communication AbilitySynonyms, Antonyms, Words with corresponding meanings, Singular, Plural, One-word substitutes, Idioms and phrases.
GAT Syllabus - English ComprehensionReading passages and answering questions based on them.
GAT Syllabus - Analytical Ability & Logical ReasoningInferences, series, coding-decoding.
GAT Syllabus - General KnowledgeCurrent affairs, fashion industry news.
Preparation Tip 1Check previous year question papers to understand the difficulty level.
Preparation Tip 2Practicing Online MCQs can significantly improve speed in the GAT section.

This comprehensive overview of the CAT and GAT syllabi, along with practical preparation tips, highlights the diverse skills candidates need to develop for the NIFT entrance examination.

NIFT Delhi 2026 Selection Process: Entrance Exam, Counselling, and Cutoff

The NIFT Delhi Admission process for 2026 involves the NIFT Entrance Examination (NIFTEE) and subsequent e-Counselling. Key stages, including results and admit card releases, have been completed, with counselling and seat allocation now underway for various programmes.

ProgrammeSeats at NIFT New Delhi
Accessory Design (B.Des)38
Fashion Communication (B.Des)38
Fashion Design (B.Des)38
Knitwear Design (B.Des)38
Leather Design (B.Des)38
Textile Design (B.Des)38
Apparel Production (B.F.Tech)38
Master of Design (M.Des)38
Master of Fashion Management (M.F.M)38
  • NIFTEE 2026: Conducted for UG & PG Programmes, with Stage 1 and Stage 2 examinations.
  • NIFTEE Results: Stage 1 results and final results for UG & PG have been declared.
  • Admit Cards/Keys: Stage 2 admit cards (UG) and provisional answer keys were released.
  • Counselling Commencement: NIFT 2026 e-Counselling and seat allocation have commenced.
  • Counselling Guidelines: Guidelines for Seat Allocation-2026 are readily available.
  • Cutoff Reference: Previous year cutoff merit ranks (2020-2025) are available.

NIFT Delhi Admission 2026 vs Previous Years: Key Changes and Updates

NIFT Delhi Admission for 2026 shows key updates, with the counselling registration deadline set for June 22, 2026. This section details important dates, fee structures, and the availability of previous year cut-off ranks to help prospective students.

  • NIFT 2026 Counselling Registration Deadline: June 22, 2026
  • NIFT 2025 Counselling Registration Deadline: July 1, 2025
  • NIFT 2026 Stage 2 Examination Date (UG Programmes): April 26, 2026
  • Total Fees for 4-year UG Programs (2024-25 schedules): Rs 13.5 - 14.8 Lakh
  • Previous Year Cut-off Ranks: Available for 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the NIFT Delhi Admission Fees for 2026?

For NIFT Delhi 2026 admissions, fees for available courses range from INR 64,900 to 12,34,000. This includes tuition, security deposit, and hostel fees.

What are the payment details for NIFT Delhi admission fees in 2026?

For NIFT Delhi admission in 2026, a one-time refundable payment of INR 17,900 is charged. This includes a INR 12,000 security deposit and INR 5,900 alumni fee.

How do NIFT Delhi fees compare across different courses for 2026?

NIFT Delhi fees for 2026-2027 range from ₹1.24 Lakhs to ₹14.31 Lakhs across all courses. UG programs like B.Des Accessory Design and Fashion Communication are ₹10.38 Lakhs.

What are the eligibility requirements for NIFT Delhi Admission?

NIFT Delhi B.Des admission requires passing the NIFT entrance exam (CAT, GAT, Situation Test) and 10+2 from a recognized Indian institution. There is no age limit, and final results are due by September 30, 2026.

How do I apply for NIFT Delhi Admission?

Apply for NIFT Delhi Admission by submitting the online Application Form for 2026. This is followed by the NIFT Entrance Examination (NIFTEE) for UG & PG Programmes.