Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, on December 15, introduced the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament. The Bill has been formulated in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to modernise the regulatory framework of higher education in Bharat and strengthen quality, standards, and global competitiveness.
The Bill proposes the establishment of a new apex body named Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan, which will serve as the central authority for coordination, standard setting, regulation, and accreditation of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) across the country. Under this unified framework, existing statutory bodies — University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) – will be subsumed into the new structure.
To achieve clear functional separation and improved quality outcomes:
The Viksit Bharat Shiksha Manak Parishad will focus on specifying minimum academic and institutional standards.
The Viksit Bharat Shiksha Viniyaman Parishad will act as the regulatory authority.
The Viksit Bharat Shiksha Gunvatta Parishad will serve as an independent accreditation council. The Council of Architecture will continue to serve as a professional standard setting body as envisioned in NEP 2020.
The Bill, approved by the Union Cabinet on 12 December 2025, also calls for replacing multiple approvals and compliance structures with a technology-driven, faceless Single Window System that emphasises public disclosure and trust-based regulation. HEIs will be required to disclose governance, financial, academic performance, and related data on a public portal, which will also form the basis for accreditation.
According to the release, the new regulatory architecture aims to simplify procedures, enhance transparency, reduce duplication of inspections, and provide greater autonomy to high-performing institutions. Student-centric reforms—such as structured feedback on academic quality and grievance redressal mechanisms—are expected to expand access and support holistic education, elevate the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), and prepare youth for future-ready careers.
The Bill underscores the government’s commitment to adopting global best practices while fostering innovation, research excellence, and Atmanirbhar Bharat in the higher education sector.
JEE Main Mock Test2026 – NTA will release JEE Mains 2026 mock tests online at nta.ac.in. The direct link to practice JEE Main online mock tests will be given below. The mock tests will be made available for both January and April sessions a few days before the exam date.
To take the mock test, go to nta.ac.in. Click on the “Mock Test” tab to START the JEE Main 2026 mock test. The log-in credentials to take the mock test will be filled-in by default; so you don’t need any separate credentials to take the JEE Main mock test 2026.
The mock tests will help you get insights into the JEE Main 2026 question paper structure, the question paper presentation, the navigation and answering process, etc. So, by taking the mock tests, you can gain confidence about attempting the computer-based JEE Main 2026 exam.
It is recommended to sol JEE Main questions and sample papers along with the mock tests to prepare for the JEE Main exam.
NTA releases the official mock tests for the JEE Main exam online at nta.ac.in. To take the mock tests, you need to follow these steps:
Got to the NTA exam portal (nta.nic.in) – Click Here
If you scroll down, you will see the “Mock Test” tab
Click on it
Next, select the exam (JEE Main) and paper
Click on “START Mock Test”
A log-in window will open
Click on “Login”; no log-in credential is required
Read the instructions; click on “Proceed”
You can now take the mock test.
Unofficial JEE Main 2026 Mock Tests
The official mock tests offered by the NTA only has a limited number of questions. So, the candidate may want to solve more mock tests.
There are many online mock tests offered by coaching institutes as well as education providers. The candidate may select the best out of these mock tests and take them.
But note that unofficial mock tests may be subscription based, meaning you have to pay a certain fees to be able to take these tests.
Another option is to buy JEE Main mock test papers on the market.
JEE Main Sample Papers 2026
The candidate must also solve JEE Main sample papers to prepare for the exam. Sample papers will contain question banks that are similar to questions asked in the actual JEE Main exam.
So, by solving sample papers, the candidate can understand the question type, difficulty level, topics covered, and marking scheme.
The more JEE Main sample papers the candidate solves, the better they will get at time-management and problem-solving.
Meanwhile, previous years’ JEE Main question papers can help the candidate understand what exactly is asked in the exam, specific questions asked, how questions are framed, and conceptual and skills required to solve these problems.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 – NTA released the eligibility criteria for JEE Main 2026 online at jeemain.nta.nic.in. To check the eligibility criteria, go to the JEE Main 2026 exam portal, and then under the “Information” option, click on the JEE (Main) 2026 Information Bulletin tab.
The detailed eligibility criteria for the exam is outlined in the brochure. Only such candidates who meet JEE Main eligibility criteria must fill JEE Main 2026 application form, which is currently open.
The JEE Main 2026 eligibility criteria include mandatory requirements pertaining to age limit, academic qualification, minimum marks, compulsory subjects, state of eligibility, etc. If a candidate fails to meet these criteria, he or she can be disqualified at any stage of the admission process.
There is no age limit for appearing in the exam. However, you must fulfill the age criteria of the Institute(s) to which you are desirous of taking admission. Also, for admission to NIT+ System, you must have passed 10+2 exam in 2024 or 2025 with a minimum aggregate of 75% marks (SC/ST candidates need 65%).
The JEE Main 2026 exam will be conducted in TWO sessions – January and April. The exam can be attempted a maximum of THREE times in consecutive years.
Keep reading to learn the full details of JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026.
To download JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin – Click Here
Table of Contents
What is the eligibility criteria for JEE Main?
Carefully go through JEE Main the eligibility criteria before filling out the application form.
The information entered by the candidate in the application form will be verified at the time of JoSAA counseling. Any candidate who is found to be faking their eligibility will be disqualified from the admission process.
For admission to the NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs, the candidate needs to meet the following criteria.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 – Qualifying Exam & Minimum Marks
Parameter
Eligibility Criteria
Qualifying Exam
The candidate must have passed the 10+2 or an equivalent exam in 2024 or 2025.
Candidates appearing in qualifying exam
Candidates who are appearing in the Class 12/equivalent examination in 2026 can also apply.
Minimum marks in the qualifying exam
At least 75% marks or be in the top 20 percentile the qualifying exam. Note: SC/ST candidates need only 65% marks.
Pass in each subject
The candidate needs to pass in each of the subjects of the qualifying exam.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 – Subject Combination
Course
Subject combination in 10+2 or equivalent exam
B.E/B.Tech
Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with one of the Chemistry/Biotechnology/Biology/ Technical Vocational subjects.
B.Arch.
10+2 Level exam – Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
10+3 Diploma exam – Mathematics
B.Planning
Mathematics
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 – Age Limit
There is no age limit for appearing in JEE (Main) – 2026. However, the candidates may be required to fulfill the age criteria of the Institute(s) to which they are desirous of taking admission.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 – List of Qualifying Examinations (QE)
The final examination of the 10+2 system, conducted by any recognized Central/ State Board, such as the Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi; Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, New Delhi; etc.
10+2 examination
Intermediate or two-year Pre-University examination
Final examination of the two-year course of the Joint Services Wing of the National Defense Academy
Senior Secondary School Examination conducted by the National Institute of Open Schooling with a minimum of five subjects.
Any Public School/ Board/ University examination in India or any foreign country is recognized as equivalent to the 10+2 system by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
A Diploma recognized by AICTE or a State board of technical education of at least 3 years duration.
General Certificate Education (GCE) examination (London/Cambridge/Sri Lanka) at the Advanced (A) level.
High School Certificate Examination of the Cambridge University or International Baccalaureate Diploma of the International Baccalaureate Office, Geneva.
Candidates who have completed the Class 12 (or equivalent) examination outside India or from a Board not specified above should produce a certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) to the effect that the examination they have passed is equivalent to the Class 12 Examination.
In case the Class 12 Examination is not a public examination, the candidate must have passed at least one public (Board or Pre-University) examination earlier.
Eligibility Criteria for JEE Advanced 2026
To appear in the JEE Advanced 2026, the candidate at the minimum must meet the following conditions.
Performance in JEE Mains 2025 – The candidate must be among the top 2,50,000 successful candidates (including all categories) in B.E./B.Tech. Paper of JEE (Main) – 2026.
Number of Attempts – A candidate can attempt JEE (Advanced) a maximum of two times in two consecutive years.
What if I don’t meet JEE Main Eligibility Criteria?
The eligibility criteria of the candidate will be verified at the time of JEE Main 2026 counseling aka JoSAA Counseling 2026. Every information entered by the candidate in the JEE Main application form will be cross-checked.
The candidate will have to produce original academic, age, caste, and other relevant certificates.
If any discrepancy is found, the candidate will be disqualified. In some cases, criminal cases may also be filed against candidates, especially if the candidate use fake documents.
So, only such candidates who meet the JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026 must apply for admission.
The application form will open online at jeemain.nta.nic.in. Candidates who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria of JEE Main 2026 may fill out the form before the last date.
Note that merely meeting the eligibility criteria won’t guarantee admission to the B.Tech/B.E program.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – The JEE Main 2026 (Session 1) exam will be held from January 21-30, 2026.
NTA mandates candidates follow specific guidelines for the exam. This includes carrying NTA JEE Main 2026 admit card, passport-size photograph (same as uploaded in the registration form), and a valid photo ID proof.
Entry inside the JEE Main 2026 exam hall will be STOPPED30 minutes before the exam commences. So, you must reach the exam center before that. It is recommended to arrive early to account for any unexpected delays. Familiarize yourself with exam center rules and regulations. Also stay informed and prepared for a seamless JEE Main 2026 exam experience.
JEE Main 2026 exam-day guidelines also includes list of allowed and barred items, dress code, and rules on an attempting the exam. For instance, rough work must be done specifically on the Rough Sheet provided inside the exam hall.
The general guidelines for JEE Main 2026 are outlined below.
Documents required for the exam – 1) JEE Main 2026 admit card, and 2) Valid photo ID proof.
Entry inside the exam hall/ venue – For Shift 1, entry inside the exam room is allowed from 7 am – 8.30 am. Meanwhile, for Shift 2, entry is allowed from 1 pm – 2.30 pm.
Reporting Time – The candidate must report to the exam at least 30 minutes before the commencement of the exam. In fact, the NTA recommends that the candidate report to the exam center 2 hours before the exam commences.
Take your seats immediately – Candidates must take their seats immediately after the opening of the JEE Main 2026 exam hall. If the candidates do not report on time due to any reason i.e. traffic jam, train/bus delay, etc., they are likely to miss some of the important instructions to be announced in the examination rooms/ halls. The NTA will not bear responsibility for any delay of the candidate.
How to display the admit card – The candidate must show, on-demand, the Admit Card downloaded/ printed from the NTA website for admission in the examination room/ hall. The Test Centre Staff on duty is authorized to verify the identity of candidates and may take steps to verify and confirm the identity credentials. Candidates must extend their full cooperation. Candidates who do not possess valid Admit Cards and authorized Photo IDs will not be permitted to take the exam under any circumstances.
Allotment of seats in the JEE Main 2026 exam center – A seat indicating Roll Number will be allotted to each candidate. Candidates must find and sit in their allocated seats only. If a candidate changes his/her seat and does not sit on the allotted seat, he or she may be disqualified. No plea will be entertained in this regard.
Verification of JEE Main 2026 question paper – The candidate must ensure that the Question Paper displayed on the computer is as per the subject indicated in the admit card and opted by the candidate. If the subject of the Question Paper is other than the one the candidate opted for, it must be brought to the notice of the Invigilator.
Assistance during the exam – Candidates can approach the Centre Superintendent or Invigilator in the room for any technical assistance, first aid emergency, or any other information during the course of the examination.
Items to be carried by Paper 2 candidates – Those appearing in JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 (B.Arch), don’t forget to carry a Geometry Box Set, Pencils, Erasers, and Colour Pencils or Crayons.
PwD candidates must also bring a PwD certificate issued by the Competent Authority.
If candidates go on a bio-break/ toilet break, they have to undergo a mandatory frisking and Biometric attendance each time.
JEE Main 2025 Exam (Session 2) Date and Shifts
Date of Exam
Paper
Shift
April 2, 3, 4, 7, 2025
Paper I
First Shift – 9 am to 12 noon
Second Shift –3 pm to 6 pm
April 8, 2025
Paper I
Second Shift – 3 pm to 6 pm
April 9, 2025
Paper II
First Shift – 9 am to 12.30 pm
Official Examination Schedule for JEE (Main)-2025 Session-2
JEE Main 2025 Exam (Session 2) Exam Timings, Reporting Time
Particular
Shift 1
Shift 2
Entry inside JEE Main 2025 exam hall
Note: Frisking, document verification, biometric registration, record of manual attendance, cross checking of admit card, signature, and photo will be done by exam officials.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – Documents Required
The list of documents required for attempting the JEE Main 2026 exam are given below.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – Items allowed inside Exam Hall
The candidate is allowed to carry the following items inside the JEE Main 2025 exam center.
Admit Card: The candidate needs to bring a printout of the JEE Main 2026 admit card on an A4 size paper.
Passport-size photograph – The photograph must be pasted on the attendance sheet. However, note that it must be the same as the one uploaded in the JEE Main 2026 application form.
A valid original photo ID proof – The photo ID can include PAN Card/ Driving License/ Voter ID/ Passport/ Aadhaar Card (with photograph)/ E-Aadhaar/ Ration Card/ 12th Class Admit Card.
A transparent Water Bottle
A transparent ball point pen
Diabetic candidates – If the candidate is a diabetic patient, he or she is allowed to bring eatables like sugar tablets, fruits (like banana/apple/ orange), and a transparent water bottle. However, packaged food like chocolate, candy, and sandwiches are not allowed.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – List of Barred Items
The following items are not allowed inside the JEE Main 2026 exam hall.
No baggage is allowed inside the exam venue.
Also, exam officials are not responsible for the safekeep of the candidate’s belongings.
Candidates are not allowed to carry any written material, calculators, slide rules, log tables, electronic watches with calculator facilities, bits of papers, mobile phone, or any other device.
Candidates found in the possession of the above will be disqualified. In some cases, criminal cases may also be levied against the candidate.
JEE Main 2026 Guidelines – Attempting the Exam
Once inside the exam venue, the candidate needs to follow the following guidelines.
The candidate needs to do all the rough work on A4 size sheets provided inside the exam hall. Additional sheets, if required, will be made available on demand.
The candidate must paste a passport size photograph and sign the attendance sheet on the rough sheet.
No candidate is allowed to leave the exam venue until the exam is over.
After the exam is over, hand over the Rough Sheets to the invigilator (refer the image below). Failure to do so can lead to disqualification
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – Dress code
There is no dress code prescribed for the JEE Main Exam 2026.
However, it is recommended that the candidate dresses adequately and moderately. Risqué dressing should be avoided. Also, avoid wearing clothes with too many pockets as it may attract unnecessary attention.
Other items you may avoid include metallic items, jewelry, caps, scarves, etc.
Note that the more convoluted dresses you wear, the more frisking and attention it will invite.
The National Institute of Design (NID) will conduct the NID DAT (Prelims) 2026 exam on December 21 ( 10 am – 1 pm).
On the day of the exam, you need to report to the NID DAT 2026 exam center at 8.30 am, with your admit card and a photo ID proof. You will not be allowed to enter the exam center after 10.30 am (Gate closing time).
Also, note that you must preserve (and not dispose of) the admit card. The signed and sealed admit card will be required if you apply for a recheck of NID DAT 2026 (Prelims) results.
Keep reading to learn the full details of NID DAT 2026 exam-day guidelines.
Any rechecking request will not be processed without a scanned copy of the admit card signed by the invigilator and with the seal of the exam center.
So, if you lose the signed/ sealed admit card, you will not be able to apply for a recheck (if required).
Further, the admit card may be required for future admission processes.
Instructions for AILET 2026 Exam
AILET 2026 Exam Date and Timing: December 14 (2 pm – 4 pm)
Reporting Time: 8.30 am
Last Entry: 10.30 am
Document Checklist: You need to bring the following documents – 1) NID DAT 2026 Admit Card, 2) Valid Photo ID proof.
Additional Photographs – Keep a copy or two additional photographs just in case.
Stationery – You must bring including pencils, erasers, cutters, etc.
Water Bottle – The candidate is allowed to carry a transparent water bottle.
Barred Items – Communication/ electronic devices like Digital Watch, Mobile Phone, Bluetooth, Earphone, Pager, Health Band, Ear Bud, Calculator, etc., are prohibited inside the exam hall. You are also not allowed to carry notes, books, or any form of written material.
Impersonation and use of unfair means, like cheating, could lead to disqualification.
NID DAT 2026 Admit Card
The National Institute of Design (NID) released the NID DAT 2026 admit card on December 11, 2025.
This is what the admit card looks like.
NID DAT 2026 Exam Instructions – Barred/ Allowed Items
The list of allowed/ barred items inside the NID DAT 2026 exam center is given below.
Allowed
NOT Allowed/ Barred
Candidates are allowed to carry the following items:
Lead pencils of various grades Sharpener Scissor Ruler Cutters Dry colors Two black ball point pens to mark the OMR answer sheet
Electronic devices, including mobile phones, watches, bags, handbags, papers, notes, books, calculators, correction markers/white fluid, bags (including handbags), etc.
Water bottle – You are allowed to carry a transparent water bottle.
The exam will be conducted in the 17 cities across India – Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jorhat, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, and Patna. A city may have one or more test centers. The name of the allotted exam center will be mentionedon the NID DAT 2025 admit card, along with other details like exam timings, exam center reporting time, and exam-day guidelines.
The candidate had to select their choice of exam center when filling out the NID DAT 2026 application form, which was open from September 11 to December 1, 2026. The allotment of NID exam center is based on preferences opted by candidates and address.
SEPARATE admit cards will be issued for the NID DAT 2026 (Mains) exam. Keep reading to learn the full details about the NID DAT exam center 2026.
NID DAT Exam Centers 2026 (Prelims) – City-wise List
The DAT Prelims exam will be conducted in the following cities. The candidate has to select their choice of exam city at the time of filling out the NID DAT 2026 application form.
Ahmedabad
Bengaluru
Bhopal
Bhubaneshwar
Chandigarh
Chennai
Dehradun
Hyderabad
Jaipur
Jorhat
Kochi
Kolkata
Lucknow
Mumbai
Nagpur
New Delhi
Patna
NID DAT Exam Center 2026 – Test Cities Dropped/ Added
The following SIX exam cities have been dropped:
Guwahati
Kurukshetra
Raipur
Ranchi
Thiruvananthapuram
Vijayawada
Meanwhile, Jorhat exam city has been newly added.
NID DAT (Prelims) Test Timings
Event
B.Des
M.Des
DAT Prelims date
December 21, 2025
December 21, 2025
Reporting Time
8:00 am
8:00 am
Gate closing time
9.30 am
9.30 am
Time of the exam
10 am – 1 pm (Part I + Part II)
10 am – 12.30 pm (Part I + Part II)
NID DAT Exam Center 2026 – Change Chosen Test City
The candidate can change the chosen NID DAT 2026 exam city during the NID DAT 2026 application form correction window.
Any requests for change of test center will not be entertained after the correction window closes.
The National Institute of Design will conduct the B.Des DAT Mains exam in the following cities:
Ahmedabad
Bengaluru
Bhopal
Kolkata
Kurukshetra
Candidates who have been shortlisted for the B.Des DAT Mains (Studio Test) must SELECT their choice of exam city in the order of preference. Note that B.Des DAT Mains exam centers will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Meanwhile, M.Des DAT Mains exam is currently conducted at the following THREE campuses – NID Ahmedabad, NID Gandhinagar, and NID Bengaluru.
The B.Des DAT Mains seat intake in each city is given below.
B.Des DAT Mains 2025 Test Center – Seating Capacity
Seating Capacity in Each Center
Test Center City
Ahmedabad
Bengaluru
Andhra Pradesh
Haryana
Madhya Pradesh
Jorhat
Seating Capacity
533
300
300
450
400
120
NID DAT 2025 exam center for B.Des Studio Test – Official Notification
Will DAT Prelims & DAT Mains be conducted in the same exam centers?
No, the DAT Prelims and DAT Mains exams will not be conducted in the same exam centers.
Candidates who qualify in DAT Prelims exam only are eligible to appear in the next admission round (or DAT Mains).
Note that only a fraction of the total applicants manage to qualify for DAT Mains. So, with fewer candidates, the number of exam centers will also go down.
Details like the name and address of the allotted exam centre, reporting time, etc. will be mentioned on the admit cards.
The National Institute of Design released admit cards for DAT Prelims on December 24, 2024. The DAT Prelims exam was conducted on January 5, 2025.
Meanwhile, the M.Des DAT Mains admit card will be released on February 24, 2025.
The NID DAT (Mains) 2025 exam for the M.Des program is scheduled to be held discipline-wise from March 1 – April 4, 2025.
Will requests for a change in the NID DAT 2025 test centre be entertained?
Admission officials will not entertain any requests for change in the allotted NID DAT 2025 exam centre.
Note that NID officials have the authority to add or remove any test centre for unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, the candidate will be allotted the 2nd best option.
An exam city can have one or more test centers.
NID DAT 2026 Exam-day Guidelines
The DAT Prelims exam will be conducted on December 21, 2025. The next
On the day of the exam, the candidate needs to follow these guidelines.
Document Checklist
NID DAT Admit Card 2026 – The candidate must retain the NID DAT 2025 admit card even after the exam is over. Note that the admit card with the sign of the invigilator and the seal of the exam center is mandatory to apply for recheck of DAT Prelims or DAT Mains result.
A Photo ID Proof – The ID must be non-expired, in the original, and must have the candidate’s photo. Photocopies of the ID proof will not be accepted.
Valid Photo ID proofs
The following documents will be accepted as a valid photo ID proof:
Student ID card issued by current school/college
Passport
Driving License
Aadhar Card
Voters ID Card
PAN Card
Stationery required for NID DAT 2026 Exam
The candidate must bring the following stationery for the NID Entrance Exam 2026.
Black ballpoint pen (to mark the answers in the OMR sheet)
Lead pencils (of varying grades)
Dry colors (such as oil pastels/color pencils/sketch pens etc)
Eraser
Sharpeners
Ruler
What not to carry on NID exam day?
Th candidate mustn’t carry the following items with them to the NID DAT exam center 2026.
Mobile phones
Calculator
Any other electronic device
Any candidate found carrying any of the above items will be disqualified.
The B.Des DAT Mains 2025 exam was held in SIX NID campuses – Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Jorhat. B.Des DAT Mains exam or STUDIO Test was conducted on May 3, 2025.
Candidates who have qualified B.Des NID DAT 2025 (Prelims) had to select test centers between 4 pm, April 3, 2025 up to April 6, 2025, (4 pm). The campus-wise seat capacity for B.Des program is given below. B.Des DAT Mains 2025 exam centers is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The name and address of the NID DAT 205 exam center for the B.Des Studio Test is mentioned on the NID DAT 2025 admit card (released on April 11). The admit card also contains other the exam timings, exam center reporting time, and exam-day guidelines.
The M.Des DAT Mains 2025 exam was conducted from in THREE campuses – NID Ahmedabad, NID Gandhinagar, and NID Bengaluru.
NID Interview Questions 2025 – The National Institute of Design (NID) conducted the Personal Interview (PI) for the M.Des program from March 3 to April 4, 2025. The interviews were conducted immediately after the Studio Test. The candidate had to follow M.Des DAT Mains 2025 exam guidelines.
NID Personal Interview was conducted discipline-wise (check schedule below).
Candidates were shortlisted for the interview (and Studio Test) based on their performance in DAT Prelims. The NID DAT 2025 (Prelims) exam was held on January 5, 2025. The candidates can check their qualifying status in the NID DAT 2025 scorecard.
Note that a personal interview carries 30% weightage, and along with the Studio Test, comprises DAT Mains. In other words, DAT Mains = Studio Test + Personal Interview.
The M.Des DAT Mains (Studio Test + Personal Interview) will be conducted in the following venues (or NID campuses):
NID Gandhinagar Campus
NID Ahmedabad Campus
NID Bengaluru Campus
The official NID notification reads “Those candidates appearing for two Studio Tests on the same day must report to the Ahmedabad Campus for registration. This is not applicable for the Studio Tests to be conducted at the Bengaluru Campus.”
The name and address of the exam center allocated for the Personal Interview will be mentioned in the M.Des DAT Mains 2025 admit card.
NID DAT Mains 2025 for M.Des
The DAT Mains for the M.Des program will have two parts:
Studio Test – This may include tests in different formats. The question paper will be in English only.
Interviews – The personal interview will be conducted separately for each discipline, immediately after the Studio Test, and at the same exam center as the Studio Test.
The National Institute of Design may, however, in unforeseen circumstances, change the schedules as well as the nature and structure of the exams, and the tests may be conducted entirely online or entirely offline, or in a combination of online & offline modes.
NID DAT Personal Interview Schedule 2025
The important dates for the NID DAT 2025 Personal Interview are given below.
NID DAT 2025 (Mains) Dates – M.Des
Event
Dates
Declaration of DAT Prelims result
Feb 17, 2025
Conduct of DAT Mains exam
DAT Mains = Studio Test + PI
March 1, 2025 to April 4, 2025
Declaration of DAT Mains results
May 6, 2025
NID Personal Interview 2025 – Sample Questions With Answers
The personal interview will bring the candidates face to face with the jury. Meanwhile, the candidate will get an opportunity to impress and leave a lasting impression on the jury.
Here we bring sample questions that may be asked in the NID DAT 2025 personal interview.
Question 1: Could you tell us a little about yourself?
Answer: The purpose of this question is to identify what you value most and whether you will fit into the NID ecosystem.
A suitable response to this question might include details about your academic journey, such as the subjects or courses you studied, your academic achievements, involvement in extracurricular activities, and any notable accomplishments or awards you earned during your time at school or college.
But make sure that you don’t end up exaggerating the facts. If you have learned a new skill, you may also highlight that to showcase your versatility and eagerness to learn new things, etc.
If you are genuine about the facts you are sharing (take for instance, the new skill you have learned), it will be very easy to answer any question related to it. If you, however, use exaggeration and falsehood to dupe the jury, remember that it won’t go unnoticed.
So, be yourself.
Question 2: Where do you come from, and what is your place famous for?
Answer: You need to take note that here the interviewer is less concerned with the specific geographical details of your hometown and more interested in how observant and curious you are about your surroundings. For example, if your area is known for a specific handicraft, do you know about it, and what can you share about it? It’s the depth of your knowledge and awareness—the “what”—that can leave a positive impression.
To answer this question effectively, you should be familiar with the unique characteristics of your place, such as its food, culture, art, crafts, handlooms, or other distinctive features. Demonstrating this understanding can showcase your connection to and appreciation for your roots.
Question 3: What do your parents do and where do you live?
The goal of this question isn’t to find out how much your parents earn, but rather to uncover the details that reflect your ability to observe and think creatively.
In your response, you can outline your parents’ professional roles, detailing the specific responsibilities they handle, the individuals they engage with, the obstacles they face, and the strategies they use to overcome these challenges. This way you can showcase your comprehension of their work and your capacity to thoughtfully analyze and articulate key insights.
Question 4: Why do you want to become a designer or pursue a course in design?
Answer: So, is your desire to become a designer driven by money, glamour, or something else?
This question can be a bit tricky and it’s important to craft a clear and thoughtful response.
A strong answer could highlight how design offers a unique blend of science and art, combining creativity with functionality. Design is deeply rooted in aesthetics, with designers constantly striving to find innovative solutions to both everyday and uncommon problems.
Beyond that, designers have the ability to bring joy to people’s lives, fulfilling our innate desire for beauty and meaningful experiences. This perspective not only showcases your passion for design but also demonstrates an understanding of its impact and purpose.
Question 5: Name your favorite gadget and explain why you like it?
Answer: The interviewer is once more assessing your curiosity, your attention to detail, and your creative thinking abilities.
If you own an i-Phone, you must be able to explain the reason why you are hooked to it, beyond the superficial answers, like the i-Phone is a well-known brand, has good picture quality so you enjoy taking photos or watching videos.
Instead, you must be able to showcase nuances, like how the i-Phone is different from other phones, how it has impacted your life in a positive way, and importantly explain the model from a designer’s perspective.
The best answer will enable the interviewer to visualize what you are describing.
Question 6: Who is your favorite designer and why?
Answer: If you are an aspiring designer, it is most likely that you have a role model or something akin to a role model.
Your answer will help the jury evaluate your preferences and the underlying reasons. It is important that you cite some solid reasons for your preference. For instance, you may like a designer because he or she brings distinct local flavours to life that other designers miss or are unable to present the designs so poignantly and colorfully.
Question 7: Why do you want to join an institute?
Answer: It is expected that you know the important features of the institute you have to take admission to.
For instance, you must know the bare minimum about the available courses, seat strength, academic curriculum, internship opportunities, faculty, etc. If you, however, appear clueless before the jury about anything related to the institute, they may regard you as a non-serious candidate.
So, read up on the participating colleges, at least the top ones.
Question 8: Questions related to GK and Current Affairs?
Answer: To crack the interview, you must be conversant with the latest current affairs of national and international importance, especially those related to the design industry.
To stay updated, you may read popular newspapers like Hindustan Times, The Hindu, TOI, Indian Express, etc.
Editorials and opinion pieces are the most important segments in these papers.
Question 9: How did you make the portfolio?
Answers: The candidate may also be asked to submit a portfolio, which is a collection of the best works of the candidate.
The jury may ask you to explain the logic behind your selection and what makes them stand out. You need to be ready with the answers. You must know and be able to explain what each item in the portfolio represents, how they are connected, and the overall theme.
NID DAT Result 2026 – The National Institute of Design (NID) will declare NID DAT 2025 (Prelims) results for M.Des on February 17 (4 pm). DAT Prelims results for B.Des will be announced on April 7, 2025. The results will be released online at admissions.nid.edu. The direct link to check NID DAT 2026 results will be provided here.
To check your result, log in to the result portal using your email ID and date of birth.
The DAT Prelims scorecard will include sectional & overall scores, and the qualifying status. It will also included the open and category-wise merit ranks. Candidates who qualify in the DAT Prelims exam will have to appear in DAT Mains.
The result recheck window of M.Des DAT Prelims will be open from Feb 17 (6 pm) to Feb 18 (11.59 pm). Meanwhile, recheck window for B.Des program will be available from April 7 (4 pm) to April 8 (11.59 pm).
What’s next for candidates who qualify DAT Prelims?
The M.Des DAT Prelims results will be declared on February 17, 2026. The B.Des DAT Prelims results will be declared on April 7. The results of the exam will be used to shortlist candidates for DAT Mains, which comprise a NID DAT Mains 2026 Studio Test.
The National Institute of Design will also allow candidates to apply for a recheck of their results.
When to apply for NID DAT 2026 result recheck?
The NID DAT 2026 result recheck window will be available for both DAT Prelims and DAT Mains.
If the candidate has any reservation about NID DAT 2026 results, they can submit for revaluation of their results using the recheck window.
NID DAT 2026 result recheck window for B.Des
NID Design Aptitude Test Stage
Result Recheck Window
B.Des DAT Prelims result recheck
April 7, 2025 (4 pm) to April 8, 2025 (11.59 pm)
B.Des DAT Mains result recheck
To be notified
NID DAT 2025 result recheck window for M.Des
NID Design Aptitude Test Stage
Result Recheck Window
M.Des DAT Prelims result recheck
Feb 17, 2025 (6 pm) to Feb 18, 2025 (11.59 pm)
M.Des DAT Mains result recheck
To be notified
How to apply for NID DAT 2026 result recheck
The result link will be activated online at the NID DAT 2026 admission portal – admissions.nid.edu.
The recheck of NID DAT 2026 (Prelims) results will be restricted to:
Whether all answers have been marked
Whether any mistake has been made in the totaling of marks for each question in Part II of the answer booklet and transferring the marks correctly onto the first cover page of the answer booklet.
However, the rechecking process will not involve a re-evaluation of any other aspect of the answer booklet.
Admit card required to apply for a recheck – The candidate will have to upload a scanned copy of the DAT Prelims admit card duly signed by the invigilator and with the seal of the NID DAT 2026 test center. If the admit card is not submitted, recheck requests will not be processed.
Fee to be paid to apply for a recheck – The fee for rechecking DAT Prelims paper is INR 2,000.
NID DAT (Prelims) Result Tie-breaker
If the total marks obtained by two or more candidates are the same, a tie-break policy will be used to decide the merit ranks.
Read the DAT Prelims tie-break policy for the B.Des and M.Des courses below.
B.Des DAT Prelims Tie-break Policy
Higher rank to be assigned to the candidate with higher marks in Part B of DAT Prelims.
If a tie is undecided, higher rank will be assigned to the candidate with higher marks in Part B of DAT Prelims.
If this still does not break the tie, then both candidates will be assigned the same rank
M.Des DAT Prelims Tie-break Policy
Higher rank to be assigned to the candidate with higher marks in DAT Prelims (Part II/ Part III).
If a tie is undecided, higher rank will be assigned to the candidate with higher marks in DAT Prelims (Part I)
If this still does not break the tie, then both candidates will be assigned the same rank
NID DAT 2026 Result (Mains) – Tie-Break Policy
The National Institute of Design will follow the tie-break policy given below to determine the merit ranks of candidates with the same total marks in DAT Mains.
B.Des DAT Mains Tie-break Policy
A higher rank will be assigned to the candidate with higher marks in DAT Mains.
If there is a deadlock, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Stage 1 Design Aptitude Test.
If the tie is still undecided, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Stage 1 Design Aptitude Test Part B.
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in Stage 1 Design Aptitude Test Part A.
M.Des DAT Prelims Tie-break Policy
A higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Mains.
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Mains – Studio test.
If this does not break the tie, a higher rank will be assigned to the candidate who has obtained higher marks in DAT Prelims.
If this still does not break the tie, the same rank will be assigned to the candidates
NID DAT 2026 FINAL results
The final results of NID DAT 2026 will be declared by giving weightage to DAT Prelims and DAT Mains.
Dates for NID DAT 2026 FINAL result (yet to be announced; so, NID DAT 2025 dates are given below for reference):
NID DAT 2026 – The National Institute of Design (NID) will conduct NID DAT 2026 (Prelims) exam on December 21, 2025. The exam will be conducted in a paper-and-pencil/pen mode and will be of 2 hours 30 minutes.
On the day of the exam, report to the NID DAT 2026 exam center with the admit card and a valid photo ID proof.
The NID DAT 2026 admit card was released on December 11. It contains details like the roll no., name and address of the allotted exam center, reporting time, and exam-day guidelines. Preserve the admit card until the admission process is over.
Soon after the exam is over, we will bring you NID DAT 2026 exam analysis, covering insights like sectional and overall difficulty, section-wise weightage, specific questions asked, etc. You will also get to know the expected NID cut-off.
Candidates who qualify in the prelims will have to next appear in NID DAT 2026 (Mains). The NID DAT 2026 results will be released separately for the B.Des and M.Des courses.
The National Institute of Design has made some changes to the NID DAT 2026 exam, which are listed below.
The NID DAT 2026 application fee has been reduced for PwD and female candidates (except SC, ST, and PwD category).
The number of NID 2026 exam cities have been reduced to 17; in the last edition, the NID exam was conducted in 22 cities. In all, SIX cities have been dropped, while one new city has been added.
NID DAT Admit Card 2026
The National Institute of Design will release admit cards for DAT Prelims on December 11, 2025. The link to download the admit card will be provided here. You can download the hall ticket using your email ID and date of birth.
NID DAT 2026 Admit cards will be released to all candidates who complete the application process.
The admit card will carry details like:
The name and roll number of the candidate, exam date and timings, reporting time, and exam-day guidelines. On the day of the DAT Mains 2026 exam, bring the admit card and a valid photo ID proof.
NID DAT 2026 admit cards will be released separately for DAT Mains. Also, only such candidates who qualify DAT Prelims will be issued the admit card.
NID DAT Application Form 2026
The NID DAT 2026 application form is open from September 11 to December 1, 2025 (11.59 pm). The application form correction facility will be available from November 2 (4 pm) till November 4 (11.59 pm).
Candidates who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria may apply online by following the link given above. The step-wise application process is given below:
Register online using your email ID, mobile number, name, and date of birth. Also, select the program of study.
Login to fill in personal, academic, and contact details.
Next, select an exam city
Upload documents
Finally, pay the registration fee to complete the application process
Read the detailed NID DAT 2026 application form filling process, including category-wise fees, required documents and specifications, and application form edit window.
NID DAT Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates appearing in the NID DAT 2026 exam are urged to carefully go through the official NID DAT 2026 exam pattern and syllabus.
The NID DAT 2026 exam pattern outlines the question paper structure, for instance, the types of questions asked, the marking scheme, difficulty level, section-wise questions, and also the types of questions.
Meanwhile, the NID DAT 2026 syllabus contains the section-wise topics from which questions will be set.
The candidate must refer to the syllabus and exam pattern for effective exam preparation.
DAT Prelims exam pattern for B.Des program
Particulars
DAT Prelims Exam Description
Test Duration
3 hours Test timings: 10 am – 1 pm
Sections
Two – Part I & Part II
Mode
Paper-and-pencil/pen test
Question type
The question paper may include textual and visual questions
Language
English
Negative marking
There is no negative marking
DAT Prelims exam pattern – M.Des
Particulars
Description
Mode of the exam
Offline
Test duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Sections
Two.
Common Design Aptitude Test Discipline Specific Test
Both tests will evaluate the candidate’s Design Aptitude.
Total Questions
100
Questions Type
Objective and subjective questions will be asked
Medium of the question paper
English
How many disciplines can a candidate appear in?
The candidate can appear in a maximum of two disciplines.
However, note that: If the candidate selects one discipline, they must appear in DAT Prelims comprising the test paper for one discipline only.
On the other hand, if TWO disciplines are selected, the candidate must appear in DAT Prelims comprising two test papers, one for each discipline.
This will help the candidate understand the types of questions asked, the difficulty level, what the examiner is trying to evaluate, skills required, etc.
The NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT) includes DAT Prelims and DAT Mains. Candidates who qualify DAT Prelims are shortlisted for DAT Mains.
The DAT Mains exam will include a NID DAT 2026 Studio Test that will evaluate the candidates’ design aptitude, creativity, as well as problem-solving and hands-on abilities. M.Des candidates also have to appear in a NID DAT 2026 personal interview.
The National Institute of Design will START the NID DAT 2026 counseling process soon after DAT Mains results are OUT.
As part of the counseling process, B.Des candidates need to submit campus preferences. The B.Des seat allotment will be based on the choices opted by the candidate and their merit rank.
Note that M.Des candidates don’t need to submit preferences.
Key Points about NID DAT 2026 Counseling
Particulars
B.Des
M.Des
Choice Filling
B.Des applicants need to fill in campus preferences
M.Des candidates don’t have to submit preferences.
Seat-allotment process
Seat allotment for the B.Des program will be based on: Merit rank of the candidate Campus selected during counseling registration Admission Category Seats available for applied program
Seat allotment for the M.Des program will be based on: NID DAT 2026 merit rank Admission Category Seats available for applied program
The participating colleges of NID DAT 2026, as the name suggests, will participate in the counseling and seat allotment process conducted by the National Institute of Design.
These institutes offer B.Des and M.Des courses.
NID Participating Colleges 2026 for B.Des
NID Ahmedabad
NID AP
NID Haryana
NID MP
NID Assam
NID Participating Colleges 2026 for M.Des
NID Ahmedabad (Main Campus)
NID Bengaluru (Extension Campus)
NID Gandhinagar (Extension Campus)
NID DAT 2026 Seat Intake – B.Des Program
Institute
Total seats
GEN-EWS(10%)
OBC-NCL(27%)
Scheduled Caste(15%)
Scheduled Tribe(7.5%)
NID Ahmedabad
125
13
34
19
9
NID Andhra Pradesh
75
8
20
11
6
NID Haryana
75
8
20
11
6
NID Madhya Pradesh
75
8
20
11
6
NID Assam
75
8
20
11
6
Total
425
45
114
63
33
NID DAT 2025 Seat Intake – M.Des Program
S.No
NID Campus
Seat Intake
1
NID Ahmedabad
126
2
NID Gandhinagar
126
3
NID Bengaluru
95
Total Intake
347
NID DAT Exam Cut-off 2025
NID DAT 2025 Admissions cut-off for Shortlisted candidates for DAT Mains is given in the table below.
Admissions 2025-26: B.Des. Category wise count of Shortlisted candidates for DAT Mains
GENERAL
GEN-EWS
OBC-NCL
SC
ST
PwD
Rank From
Rank To
Score of last candidate shortlisted
Rank From
Rank To
Score of last candidate shortlisted
Rank From
RankTo
Score of last candidate shortlisted
Rank From
Rank To
Score of last candidate shortlisted
Rank From
Rank To
Score of last candidate shortlisted
Rank From
Rank To
Score of last candidate shortlisted
1
193
59
1
134
46
1
204
51
1
176
46
1
110
38
1
67
19
NID DAT 206 Admission – Website Updated, Notification
Before the release of the application form, the NID had notified it will soon START the NID admission 2026-27 process. Here is the update.
NIFT Participating Institutes and Seat Matrix 2026 – For the current edition, 20 NIFTs (up from 19 in the last edition) will participate in the NIFT 2026 admission process. NIFT Nava Raipur has been newly added.
For NIFT 2026, the participating institutes will have a combined intake of 5076 seats (up from 4,837 seats). This includes 4596 (up from 4392) All-India seats and 480 (up from 445) state domicile seats.
The B.Des has a maximum intake of 3423 seats (including 3088 All-India and 335 state-domicile seats), while the B.F.Tech program has 591 seats (542 All-India and 49 state-domicile seats). The PG courses (M.Des, M.F.Tech, MFM) have a combined intake of 1,062 seats.
The participating colleges offer B.Des, M.Des, B.F.Tech, M.F.Tech, and M.F.M courses. You can select your program of STUDY when filling out the NIFT 2026 application form. Admission to the above courses will be based on NIFT 2026 merit ranks.
Bachelor Programme – Bachelor of Fashion Technology (B.F.Tech.)
8
Apparel Production (AP)
69
55
47
58
229
Total
140
166
222
180
708
NIFT Participating Institute 2026 – Admission Process
Admission to NIFT 2026 participating colleges will be through the NIFTEE entrance exam conducted by the NTA.
The exam is conducted in TWO stages:
Stage 1 – It comprises CAT and GAT written exams.
Stage 2 – Situation Test or Studio Test (UG courses)/ Personal Interview (PG courses)
The scores of the NIFTEE 2026 (Stage 1) written exams will be used to shortlist candidates for the Stage 2.
The final merit list will be prepared by giving weightage to Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the NIFTEE 2026.
Candidates who meet NIFT cut-off will get admission to their chosen courses.
What is NLEA admission?
NIFT Lateral Entry Admission (NLEA) allows candidates with Diploma in relevant / related fields of Design & Technology direct admission to the 3rd semester of UG programmes of NIFT.
The candidates who have Diploma/Degree must appear for NIFT 2026 exam to get lateral admission in the 3rd semester of UG programmes of NIFT.
NLEA Admission Process
Admission will be strictly on merit of:
NIFT Entrance Exam 2026
Studio test/ technical aptitude test
Personal interview.
The candidates selected through lateral entry will join the regular UG students of NIFT in their second year.
NIFT Reservation Criteria 2026
The category-wise reservation of seats for NIFT 2026 is given in the table below.
The seat allotment of participating colleges will be done through the NIFT 2026 counseling process conducted by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
The registration for NIFT counseling 2026 will be conducted around the fourth week of June 2026.
Candidates who qualify in the NIFT 2026 exam can register for the counseling-cum-seat allotment process. The NIFT 2026 results (FINAL) will be declared in June 2026.
NIFT 2025 Seat Allotment Schedule is given below for reference:
Round 1 – July 5, 2025
Round 2 – July 18, 2025
Round 3 – July 28, 2025
Spot Round – August 8, 2025
Candidates who have been allotted seats need to submit willingness and pay the admission fee within the given deadline. Candidates can also withdraw their seats.
