In order to crack the NID DAT Exam 2026, it is important for an aspirant to understand the exam pattern and syllabus of this entrance exam. Understanding the trends followed by previous year question papers is the next important step in this preparation journey. In addition to this, consistent practice of sketching and drawing is a must, thus an aspirant must keep trying to improve and better their skills. Giving mock tests during the last few months of preparation will help aspirants to manage their time effectively and will give them an upper edge when compared to other candidates.
The NID DAT exam is considered to be one of the toughest designing exams in the country. In this national level test, higher weightage is allotted to drawing related and other relevant subjective questions. With the exam being considerably tough, the seat matrix for designing courses in NID campuses across India is quite limited. Thus, an aspirant must give their very best to crack this exam. Many experts recommend coaching as a necessary tool to crack the NID DAT Exam.
The NID DAT Entrance Exam tests a student’s abilities with regards to subjects like Drawing Fundamentals, General Knowledge, Design Theory, Creativity and Problem-Solving. Thus, overall, this test assesses the design aptitude and creativity of an individual. Other important topics that fall under the NID Entrance Exam syllabus are color theory, typography, elements and principles of design, graphic design basics and more.
The NID DAT Exam or the Design Aptitude Exam is a national-level exam which is conducted by the National Institute of Design. The NID DAT Exam admits students to BDes and MDes programmes. A UG course in design lasts for a span of 4 years and is offered by 5 campuses across NID Institutes: NID Ahmedabad, NID Andhra Pradesh, NID Haryana, NID Assam and NID Madhya Pradesh. Whereas, the MDes programme is available at 3 institutes, namely those of NID Ahmedabad, NID Bengaluru, NID Gandhinagar.