National Institute of Fashion Technology, Gandhinagar: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Gandhinagar Campus Life

About National Institute of Fashion Technology - [NIFT] Gandhi Nagar

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Gandhinagar, established in 2004, is a government autonomous institute located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It operates under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and is part of the national network of NIFT campuses across India.

NIFT Gandhinagar holds a strong reputation in fashion education with a NAAC accreditation and is ranked 6th in Fashion Design by India Today in 2024. The institute offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in fashion design, technology, and management, with over 70 faculty members and a diverse student body. It is recognized for its academic excellence and industry-oriented curriculum.

Key Highlights

Admission Dates 2026

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar admission cycle for 2026 involves an online application process followed by the NIFT Entrance Exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Candidates seeking admission to UG and PG programmes such as B.Des, B.F.Tech, M.Des, M.F.Tech, and M.F.M must register online, appear for the General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT), and participate in subsequent situation tests or interviews as applicable.

Admission Process

Admission to National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar is primarily through the NIFT entrance exam, which includes the General Ability Test (GAT) for all programs and the Creative Ability Test (CAT) for design courses. Post-exam, shortlisted candidates undergo situation tests or personal interviews, followed by counselling and seat allotment.

B.Des and B.F.Tech Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Register online on the official NIFT admission portal during the application window (Nov 2025 to Jan 2026).
2. Fill out the application form with academic and personal details, upload required documents, and pay the application fee (₹3000; ₹1500 for SC/ST/PWD).
3. Download the admit card when released and appear for the NIFT entrance exam (GAT for all; CAT for B.Des).
4. Shortlisted B.Des candidates appear for the Situation Test; B.F.Tech admission is based solely on GAT scores.
5. Check the release of cutoff lists and register for counselling if eligible.
6. Participate in counselling rounds, fill choices, and lock preferences for seat allotment.
7. Confirm seat allotment by paying the admission fee and submitting willingness online.
8. Attend the orientation program at the allotted campus with original documents for verification.

M.Des and M.F.Tech Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Complete online registration and application on the NIFT portal within the specified dates.
2. Appear for the NIFT entrance exam (GAT and CAT) and qualify for the personal interview round.
3. After interview, check merit lists and participate in counselling for seat allocation.
4. Confirm admission by paying fees and submitting required documents during verification.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

Documents Required

• 10th and 12th Mark Sheets and Certificates
• Entrance Exam Admit Card and Scorecard
• Proof of Identity (Aadhar card, Passport, etc.)
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• Passport-size Photographs
• Transfer Certificate and Migration Certificate (if applicable)
• Graduation Mark Sheets and Degree Certificate (for PG admissions)
• Medical Fitness Certificate (if required)

Cutoff 2025

The NIFT Gandhinagar 2025 cutoffs for various design courses show competitive closing ranks, especially in the Bachelor of Design (B.Des) specializations like Fashion Communication, which had a closing rank of 259 in the General category. Cutoffs for other courses such as Bachelor of Fashion Technology (B.F.Tech) and Master of Design (M.Des) also reflect a consistent demand, with closing ranks generally ranging from the low hundreds to around 700 for undergraduate courses. Category-wise cutoffs indicate higher closing ranks for reserved categories, reflecting typical reservation trends.

Placements 2025

NIFT Gandhinagar achieved a strong placement performance in 2025 with an overall placement rate of around 82-85%. The highest package offered was ₹9 LPA, while the average package ranged between ₹4.5 LPA and ₹6 LPA across various programs. Top recruiters included prominent fashion and lifestyle brands such as Tanishq, Lifestyle, Arvind, Myntra, and Amazon.

Placement Statistics

Top Recruiters

IT: Amazon, Naukri.com

Consulting: McKinsey, JWT

Core: Tanishq, Lifestyle, Arvind Mills, Myntra, Aditya Birla, Nike, Shopper Stop

Branch-wise Placement

Rankings & Accreditations

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar is consistently ranked among the top fashion design institutes in India, securing the 6th position in India Today and Outlook rankings for 2025. It is recognized for excellence in fashion design education and holds a strong reputation nationally.

Other Rankings

Accreditations

• AICTE: Approved
• UGC: Recognized
• AIU: Accredited

Scholarships & Financial Aid

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar offers various scholarships primarily based on merit, financial need, and parental income. These include fee waivers ranging from 25% to 100% under the institute’s Means-Cum-Merit and Sarthak schemes. Additionally, students from reserved categories can avail government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

Institute Scholarships

Government Scholarships

External Scholarships

• ITC Scholarship: Awarded to NIFT students for academic excellence and creative achievements
• HomeShop18 Scholarship: Recognizes outstanding academic performance among NIFT students

Comparison

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar is compared with NIFT Delhi and Pearl Academy New Delhi as these are leading fashion and design institutes in India known for their strong industry connections, comprehensive design programs, and high placement records, making them top choices for aspiring fashion professionals.

Key Strengths

• National Institute of Fashion Technology - [NIFT] Gandhi Nagar: Strong government backing with a focus on innovative fashion technology and sustainable design practices.
• NIFT Delhi: Oldest and most prestigious NIFT campus with extensive industry linkages and highest placement packages among NIFTs.
• Pearl Academy New Delhi: Private institute known for industry-oriented curriculum, international collaborations, and strong placement support in fashion and design sectors.

Campus & Infrastructure

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar campus is located near Indroda Circle in the Infocity area of Gandhinagar, Gujarat, approximately 15 km from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Spread over 6 acres, the campus features modern academic and residential facilities designed to support fashion education and research.

Campus Details

Academic Facilities

• Library: Resource Centre with extensive magazines and newsletters subscriptions
• Labs: 24 labs including design studios, workshops, and specialized labs for sewing, pattern making, and garment technology
• Classrooms: 64 classrooms, all equipped with audio-visual facilities and smart boards

Hostel

Other Facilities

• 3 auditoriums (including one with 339 seating capacity)
• Student activity centre with amphitheater
• Sports facilities: badminton court, basketball court, volleyball court, cricket pitch, table tennis room
• Hostel amenities: 24x7 security, firefighting system, power backup, hot water, water coolers with RO
• Common utility areas in hostel with refrigerators, microwaves, induction heaters, steam irons, electric kettles
• Medical facility on campus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process for B.Des at NIFT Gandhinagar?

Admission to B.Des at NIFT Gandhinagar requires qualifying the NIFT entrance exam, which includes the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT), followed by a Situation Test and counselling for seat allotment.

What are the eligibility criteria for B.F.Tech at NIFT Gandhinagar?

Candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from a recognized board. Admission is based on the NIFT entrance exam (GAT) scores and counselling.

How much is the total fee for the NIFT Gandhinagar hostel?

The hostel fee for girls at NIFT Gandhinagar is approximately ₹75,000 per year, excluding a refundable security deposit of ₹5,000. Hostel accommodation is limited to first-year female students only.

Are scholarships available at NIFT Gandhinagar?

NIFT Gandhinagar offers scholarships based on merit and category, but specific details and eligibility criteria vary each year and are announced on the official website during admission.

What is the average placement package at NIFT Gandhinagar?

The average placement package ranges between ₹4 to ₹6 lakh per annum, with top recruiters including fashion brands, retail companies, and design studios.

Which companies recruit from NIFT Gandhinagar?

Recruiters include prominent fashion houses, apparel manufacturers, retail chains, and lifestyle brands such as Raymond, Arvind, Titan, and Shoppers Stop.

What specializations are offered in the M.Des program at NIFT Gandhinagar?

M.Des specializations include Fashion Design, Textile Design, Knitwear Design, and Accessory Design, with a curriculum focused on innovation and research in fashion technology.

How experienced is the faculty at NIFT Gandhinagar?

The faculty comprises industry professionals and academicians with extensive experience in fashion design, technology, and management, ensuring practical and theoretical learning.

Is there a boys' hostel available on the NIFT Gandhinagar campus?

No, the campus provides hostel facilities only for first-year female students. Male students typically stay in nearby PG accommodations or rented flats.

What are the food and mess facilities like at NIFT Gandhinagar hostel?

The hostel mess offers four meals a day, including vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and Jain food options. The food quality is considered better than average with a focus on hygiene.

Are there sports and recreational facilities available on campus?

Yes, the campus has facilities for cricket, basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, a gym, music and dance rooms, and an amphitheatre for cultural events.

What is the campus safety and security like at NIFT Gandhinagar?

The campus has round-the-clock security, CCTV surveillance, and secure hostel premises, ensuring a safe environment for all students, especially female residents.

Can students pursue part-time jobs while studying at NIFT Gandhinagar?

Part-time job opportunities on campus are limited; however, students often find internships and freelance design projects off-campus to gain industry experience.

Is there a dress code for students at NIFT Gandhinagar?

There is no strict dress code, but students are encouraged to maintain a professional and creative appearance suitable for a fashion institute.

How does NIFT Gandhinagar compare to other NIFT campuses in terms of infrastructure?

NIFT Gandhinagar boasts modern, Wi-Fi-enabled classrooms, specialized labs, and well-equipped design studios, comparable to other top NIFT campuses with a focus on innovation and creativity.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for a degree from NIFT Gandhinagar?

With average placement packages around ₹4-6 lakh per annum and strong industry connections, the ROI is considered high for students pursuing careers in fashion design and technology.

Does NIFT Gandhinagar have an active alumni network?

Yes, the institute has a well-established alumni network that supports current students through mentorship, industry connections, and collaborative projects.

What are the laptop requirements for students at NIFT Gandhinagar?

Students are advised to have laptops with graphic design capabilities and software like Adobe Creative Suite to support coursework and projects.

How accessible is NIFT Gandhinagar by public transport?

The campus is well-connected by public transport and has shuttle services, making commuting convenient for day scholars and residents of nearby areas.

Are cultural and fashion festivals organized at NIFT Gandhinagar?

Yes, the campus hosts vibrant cultural events and fashion shows such as Janmashtami and Garba festivals, fostering creativity and community engagement among students.