NIFT 2026: Exam Date, Syllabus, Eligibility, Registration, Pattern & Fashion Admission Guide

What is NIFT Entrance Exam?

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Entrance Exam is a prestigious national-level entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of NIFT for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs in fashion technology, design, management, and related fields across 18 NIFT campuses in India. Established in 1986 under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, NIFT aims to foster creative and technical excellence in the fashion and apparel industry, producing professionals equipped to drive innovation in textiles, garment manufacturing, retail, and sustainable design. The exam serves as a gateway to programs like B.Des (Bachelor of Design), B.F.Tech (Bachelor of Fashion Technology), M.Des (Master of Design), M.F.M (Master of Fashion Management), and M.F.Tech (Master of Fashion Technology), with over 30,000 candidates appearing annually for approximately 5,000 seats. 

Qualifying NIFT not only ensures access to world-class facilities like advanced labs, industry collaborations with brands such as Raymond, Aditya Birla, and Reliance, but also opens doors to high-paying careers in fashion houses, export firms, and consultancies, with average starting salaries of ₹4–8 LPA escalating to ₹15–25 LPA mid-career. The multi-stage selection process—comprising Computer-Based Test (CBT) for GAT (General Ability Test), Creative Ability Test (CAT), and Situation Test/GD/PI—evaluates analytical, creative, and managerial skills, aligning with the industry's demand for holistic professionals. NIFT alumni lead global brands and contribute to sustainable practices, making the qualification a benchmark for excellence in India's ₹10 lakh crore fashion sector. 

For 2026, NTA has introduced reduced fees and streamlined online processes to enhance accessibility, with reservations ensuring inclusivity (SC:15%, ST:7.5%, OBC:27%, EWS:10%, PwD:5%). Beyond degrees, NIFT offers lateral entry for diploma holders and international recognition via tie-ups with FIT New York and London College of Fashion, enabling global mobility and research opportunities in emerging areas like AI-driven design and eco-textiles.

NIFT 2026 Key Highlights

NIFT 2026 Important Dates (Official Schedule)

NIFT 2026 Eligibility Criteria – Program-wise Qualifications

The following are the course wise eligibility criteria for NIFT entrance exam:

• B.Des (Bachelor of Design):

• Passed Class 12 from any recognized board (any stream)

• Maximum age: Less than 24 years as on August 1, 2026 (5-year relaxation for SC/ST/PwD)

• No minimum percentage required

• Appearing candidates eligible (must pass by admission time)

• B.F.Tech (Bachelor of Fashion Technology):

• Passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM)

• Minimum 50% aggregate in Class 12

• Maximum age: Less than 24 years as on August 1, 2026 (relaxation as above)

• M.Des (Master of Design):

• Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university

• Or B.Des from NIFT/SFID with no age limit

• Minimum 50% aggregate

• M.F.M (Master of Fashion Management):

• Bachelor's degree in any discipline with 50% marks

• No age limit

• M.F.Tech (Master of Fashion Technology):

• B.F.Tech from NIFT or B.E./B.Tech in Textile/Apparel from AICTE-recognized institute with 60% marks

• No age limit

• Ph.D.:

• Master's degree with 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD)

• No age limit

• General:

• Indian nationals/NRIs/foreign nationals eligible

• Lateral entry for B.Des/B.F.Tech (2nd year) for diploma holders with 3-year duration

NRI candidates exempted from entrance exam; admission based on SAT/GMAT/GRE scores. Document verification mandatory during counselling.

NIFT 2026 Application Form: Step-by-Step Guide

The entire NIFT 2026 registration process is 100% online through the NTA portal exams.nta.ac.in/NIFT. No offline or physical forms are accepted.

1. Visit exams.nta.ac.in/NIFT
2. Click “New Registration” → Accept declaration → Generate Application Number & Password
3. Login → Fill personal details (Name, DOB, Gender, Category, PwD status, Aadhaar)
4. Enter academic qualifications (Class 10 & 12 details)
5. Upload scanned documents (Photo: 4.5 cm × 3.5 cm, 10–200 KB, JPG; Signature: 10–200 KB, JPG; Category certificate if applicable)
6. Select program preference (B.Des/B.F.Tech/M.Des/M.F.M/M.F.Tech)
7. Choose exam city preferences (3 choices)
8. Pay application fee online (UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card)
9. Submit and download confirmation page (keep safe till admission)

NIFT 2026 Application Fees (Category-wise)

Document Specifications for Upload (2026)

NIFT 2026 Application Correction Window & Exam Centres

• Correction Window: January 12–14, 2026 (limited fields: photo, signature, category, program preference)
• Non-correctable: Name, DOB, Mobile, Email, Application Number
• Exam Centres: 32 cities across India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Patna, Lucknow, etc.) + no international centres
• Centre once allotted cannot be changed
• Extra charges for late registration: ₹5,000 (applicable to all categories)

NIFT 2026 Exam Pattern – Complete Details (GAT, CAT & Situation Test)

GAT Pattern – B.Des & M.Des

GAT Pattern – B.F.Tech & M.F.Tech

NIFT 2026 Detailed Syllabus (GAT + CAT)

• Quantitative Ability: Fractions, Ratios, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Speed & Distance, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration
• Communication Ability & English: Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, One-word Substitution, Reading Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Fill in Blanks
• Analytical & Logical Ability: Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism
• GK & Current Affairs: Fashion Events, Designers, Brands, Awards, Textiles, Indian Culture, Sports, Politics, Economy
• Creative Ability Test (CAT): Drawing Skills, Colour Sense, Observation, Innovation, Design Concept, 3D Modelling, Perspective, Proportion, Theme-based Illustration
• Situation Test (B.Des only): Material Handling, 3D Model Making from given materials (clay, paper, wire, etc.), Write-up on concept

Best Books for NIFT 2026 Preparation (Recommended by Toppers)

FAQs

1. What is the age limit for B.Des in NIFT 2026?

Candidates must be below 24 years as on 1st August 2026. 5-year relaxation is given to SC/ST/PwD candidates (up to 29 years). No age limit for PG programs (M.Des, M.F.M, M.F.Tech).

2. Can I apply for both B.Des and B.F.Tech in one form?

Yes, a single application form allows you to apply for both programs. You will appear for the common GAT; B.Des candidates also write CAT and Situation Test. Separate merit lists are prepared for B.Des and B.F.Tech.

3. Is mathematics compulsory for B.Des?

No, mathematics is not required in Class 12 for B.Des. Any stream (Science/Commerce/Arts) is eligible. For B.F.Tech, Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are mandatory.

4. What is the total fee for the entire 4-year B.Des course?

Approximately ₹12–14 lakh (tuition + hostel + one-time charges). Top campuses (Delhi, Mumbai) are slightly higher. Scholarships and fee waivers available for economically weaker students.

5. How many seats are there in NIFT Delhi for Fashion Design?

Around 40–45 seats for General category in B.Des Fashion Design. Total intake across all categories is about 120 per campus for FD. Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru have the highest demand.

6. Is coaching necessary to crack NIFT?

90%+ rankers join reputed coaching (AFA, BRDS, Silica, Pahal). Self-study is possible but CAT and Situation Test need guided practice. Online courses and mock test series are highly recommended.

7. Can NRI students apply without writing NIFT entrance?

Yes, NRI/OCI/PIO candidates are exempted from the entrance exam. Admission is based on SAT scores for UG and GMAT/GRE for PG. Limited NRI quota seats are available.

8. What is the weightage of CAT in B.Des final selection?

CAT carries 50% weightage – the highest among all tests. GAT is 30% and Situation Test is 20%. Strong drawing and creativity skills are crucial for top ranks.

9. How many rounds are there in NIFT counselling?

Usually 5–6 online rounds followed by 1–2 spot rounds. Seat acceptance fee is ₹1,00,000 (adjustable in tuition). Float option allows upgradation in higher rounds.

10. What is a good rank to get NIFT Delhi?

General category: Below 100 for Fashion Design, below 200 for Accessory Design. B.F.Tech Delhi closes around AIR 50–80. Ranks beyond 500 usually get newer campuses.

11. Is there negative marking in GAT?

No negative marking in NIFT GAT or CAT. Every correct answer in GAT carries 1 mark. Candidates should attempt all questions.

12. Can I get direct admission in 2nd year of B.Des?

Yes, lateral entry is available for 3-year diploma holders in fashion-related fields. Limited seats (5–10% of total intake). Separate merit list based on diploma marks and interview.

13. What materials are provided in the Situation Test?

Common materials: chart paper, ivory sheets, clay, thread, pins, cotton, thermocol, etc. No outside material allowed; everything is provided at the centre. Candidates make a 3D model and write a concept note in 2 hours.

14. What is the average placement package from NIFT?

Freshers: ₹6–8 LPA (Delhi/Mumbai), ₹5–7 LPA (other campuses). Highest packages reach ₹20–30 LPA in brands like Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, Adidas. 100% placement for most programs in recent years.

15. Is hostel compulsory in NIFT?

No, hostel is optional but highly recommended for first-year students. Most campuses have excellent hostel facilities with AC/non-AC options. Mess food is included in hostel fee.

16. Can I change my campus after first year?

No, campus transfer is not allowed under normal circumstances. Only in extreme medical/family cases with proper documentation. Students must complete the full course at allotted campus.

17. What is the difference between B.Des and B.F.Tech?

B.Des focuses on creativity, design, illustration and fashion styling. B.F.Tech is technical – apparel production, quality control, manufacturing. B.F.Tech has higher starting salary in production/export houses.

18. How to prepare for NIFT Situation Test at home?

Practice with everyday materials (newspaper, ice-cream sticks, cotton, foil). Develop 3D model-making speed and innovative thinking. Refer to BRDS/AFA Situation Test kits and previous year videos.

19. Is portfolio required for M.Des admission?

Yes, portfolio is mandatory during GD/PI for M.Des. Should showcase design projects, internships and creative work. Strong portfolio can compensate for average GAT score.

20. Which campus is best for Fashion Communication?

NIFT Delhi and Mumbai are considered the best for Fashion Communication. Excellent industry exposure, celebrity events and media tie-ups. Highest placements in advertising, PR and styling.

21. Can I appear for NIFT after a gap year?

Yes, gap year candidates are fully eligible. No restriction on number of attempts or gap years. Many successful candidates clear NIFT after 1–2 years of preparation.

22. What is the last rank accepted in spot round?

Usually goes up to 3000–5000 depending on vacancies. Newer campuses (Jodhpur, Panchkula, Bhopal) accept higher ranks. Spot round is offline/physical at respective campuses.

23. Are scholarships available in NIFT?

Yes, means-cum-merit scholarship up to 100% tuition waiver. Udaan scheme for SC/ST students and SARTHAK for PwD. State government scholarships also applicable.

24. Can I do internship during B.Des course?

Yes, compulsory 8–10 week internship in 6th/7th semester. Top brands like Sabyasachi, Manish Malhotra, Anita Dongre recruit interns. Stipend ranges from ₹10,000–30,000 per month.

25. Is NIFT degree recognised internationally?

Yes, NIFT has tie-ups with 40+ global institutes (FIT New York, London College of Fashion). Alumni work with Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci worldwide. Excellent for higher studies abroad in fashion.