GLS Institute of Design DAT (Design Aptitude Test) 2026 is the entrance exam conducted by GLS University, Ahmedabad, for admission to B.Des, Integrated B.Des + M.Des, M.Des, and Global B.Des (Hons.) programmes at GLS Institute of Design (GLSID). Round 2 applications for the 2026 admission cycle are currently open at the official portal, giving students another opportunity to secure a seat across 6 design specializations in Gujarat’s leading design school. The DAT tests creativity, drawing skills, and design aptitude through a 100-mark written exam followed by a Personal Interview and portfolio review.
- Round 2 Registration: GLS DAT Round 2 applications are open right now. You can register at admission.glsuniversity.ac.in. The Round 2 application fee is Rs. 2,000. Check the official portal for the updated Round 2 exam schedule, as the exam date is announced after the registration window closes.
- Courses and Seats: GLS Institute of Design offers B.Des with 200 seats across 6 specializations: Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Animation Design, Product Design, Interior & Space Design, and Accessories & Jewellery Design. The 5-year Integrated B.Des + M.Des has 40 additional seats. Round 2 is your last chance to apply for these programmes.
- Result / Merit List: After the Round 2 DAT and Personal Interview, a merit list will be declared combining DAT scores and PI performance. In Round 1 of the 2026 cycle, the result was declared in February 2026. Round 2 result and merit list are expected a few weeks after the Round 2 exam and interview process.
- Counselling / Admission: Admission at GLSID is finalized through document verification and fee payment after the merit list. Round 2 counselling will begin after the Round 2 merit list is published. Students must keep their Class 10, Class 12 marksheets, ID proof, and passport-size photographs ready for verification.
What is GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026?
GLS Institute of Design DAT stands for Design Aptitude Test. It is an institution-level entrance exam held by GLS University (Gujarat Law Society University) in Ahmedabad for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate design programmes at GLS Institute of Design (GLSID).
GLS University is a NAAC A+ accredited university with a long academic legacy that goes back to the Gujarat Law Society founded in 1927. The GLS Institute of Design was set up in 2016 and is one of the premier design schools in Gujarat, ranked among the top private design colleges in India by IIRF (Indian Institutional Ranking Framework).
The DAT is not a national-level exam — it is specific to GLSID. Only students who want to study design at GLS Institute of Design need to appear for this test. The exam is conducted in two rounds each academic year, and Round 2 for the 2026 admissions is currently open.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | GLS Design Aptitude Test (GLS DAT) |
| Full Form | Design Aptitude Test |
| Conducting Body | GLS University, Ahmedabad (GLS Institute of Design) |
| Exam Level | Institutional (Ahmedabad, Gujarat) |
| Exam Mode | Offline / Online (as notified) |
| Exam Duration | 2–3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Negative Marking | No |
| Application Fee | Rs. 2,000 |
| Eligibility | 10+2 pass (any stream), minimum 50% marks |
| Courses Offered | B.Des, Integrated B.Des + M.Des, M.Des, Global B.Des (Hons.) |
| Total B.Des Seats | 200 |
| Official Website | glsid.org |
| Admission Portal | admission.glsuniversity.ac.in |
GLS DAT 2026 Important Dates
GLS Institute of Design conducts the DAT in two rounds in an academic year. Round 1 for the 2026 intake is over. Round 2 applications are currently open as of May 30, 2026. Below are all key dates for the 2026 admission cycle, with upcoming events listed first.
Round 2 registration is open right now. Do not delay your application — apply at the official portal before the deadline.
| Event | Date (2026) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Round 2 Application Deadline | To be announced — Apply Now | Active |
| Round 2 DAT Exam Date | To be announced (after registration closes) | Upcoming |
| Round 2 Personal Interview (PI) | Expected after Round 2 DAT | Upcoming |
| Round 2 Merit List / Result | Expected after Round 2 PI | Upcoming |
| Round 2 Counselling & Seat Confirmation | Expected after Round 2 Merit List | Upcoming |
| Round 1 Application Open | August 17, 2025 | (Over) |
| Round 1 Application Close | January 22, 2026 | (Over) |
| Round 1 DAT Exam | January 24–25, 2026 | (Over) |
| Round 1 Result / Merit List | February 2026 | (Over) |
| Round 1 Counselling | February–March 2026 | (Over) |
Note: Exact dates for Round 2 are subject to official announcement by GLS University. Keep checking the admission portal regularly for updates.
GLS DAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026, you must check the eligibility criteria carefully. GLSID has straightforward eligibility — any stream is accepted, and there is no age limit.
For B.Des (Bachelor of Design)
- You must have passed Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent exam from a recognized board — CBSE, State Board, CISCE, IB, or any equivalent
- Stream: Any — Science, Commerce, Arts, or Vocational
- Minimum Marks: 50% aggregate in Class 12
- Appearing candidates: Students appearing in Class 12 exams in 2026 can also apply, subject to submitting the final marksheet at the time of admission
- Age Limit: No minimum or maximum age limit
For Integrated B.Des + M.Des (5-Year Programme)
- Same eligibility as B.Des: Class 12 pass from any stream with 50% minimum marks
- You should be committed to a 5-year design education journey in this programme
For M.Des (Master of Design)
- Bachelor’s degree in Design or a relevant discipline from a recognized university
- Minimum 50% marks in graduation (45% for reserved categories)
- Diploma holders with equivalent qualifications may also be considered
Students from any stream — Science, Commerce, or Arts — are eligible for B.Des. Design is for everyone, and GLS Institute of Design actively encourages students from all academic backgrounds to apply.
How to Apply for GLS DAT 2026 — Round 2 Open
Round 2 applications for GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026 are currently open. Here is the step-by-step application process you need to follow.
Round 2 applications are open now. Apply at the official portal: admission.glsuniversity.ac.in/glsid/art-login.aspx
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official admission portal: Go to admission.glsuniversity.ac.in/glsid/art-login.aspx
- New Registration: Click on "New Registration" and create an account using your valid email ID and mobile number
- Fill the Application Form: Enter all required details — personal information, academic details, course preference, and contact information. Fields marked with * are mandatory
- Upload Documents: Upload a scanned copy of your Class 10 and Class 12 marksheets, a recent passport-size photograph, and valid ID proof in the prescribed format
- Pay Application Fee: Pay Rs. 2,000 online through UPI, credit card, debit card, or net banking
- Submit Application: After successful payment, submit your form. A Unique Application Number (UAN) will be sent to your registered email ID
- Save your UAN: Use this UAN to track your application status, download your admit card, and receive all further communication about the DAT exam and Personal Interview
Application Fee Details
| Category | Application Fee | Mode of Payment |
|---|---|---|
| All Categories | Rs. 2,000 | Online (UPI / Card / Net Banking) |
The application fee is non-refundable. There is no fee waiver or concession for any category.
Documents Required at the Time of Applying
- Class 10 marksheet (for date of birth proof)
- Class 12 marksheet or admit card (for appearing candidates)
- Valid photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, or School/College ID)
- Passport-size photograph (recent, colour, white background)
- Caste/category certificate (if applicable, for reference)
GLS DAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The GLS Design Aptitude Test 2026 is a 100-mark exam that checks both your design awareness and your drawing ability. It has two parts — an objective aptitude section and a drawing and descriptive section. There is no negative marking.
| Section | Type | Topics Covered | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) | General Aptitude, Design Awareness, Current Affairs, Art & Design History | 40 Marks (40%) |
| Section B | Drawing & Descriptive / Essay | Drawing from imagination, Composition, Creativity, Colour application, Visualization | 60 Marks (60%) |
| Total | 100 Marks | ||
Key Features of GLS DAT Exam Pattern
- Mode: Offline / Online as notified by the institute for each round
- Duration: 2 to 3 Hours
- Total Marks: 100
- Negative Marking: No negative marking for wrong answers
- Language: English
- Exam Centre: GLS University campus, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad
Section B carries more weight than Section A. Your drawing ability, creativity, and visual thinking skills matter more than written aptitude. If you can draw well and think creatively, you have a natural advantage in this exam.
Skills Assessed in GLS DAT
- Innovation and imagination in design thinking
- Drawing skills — proportion, perspective, line quality
- Use of shapes, colour, and pattern in compositions
- Form observation and spatial reasoning
- Visual perception and aesthetic sensitivity
- Design articulation — ability to explain design ideas visually
- General awareness of art, design, and current events
GLS DAT 2026 Syllabus
GLS University has not released a detailed official syllabus PDF for the GLS DAT. However, based on the exam pattern and past question papers, the topics tested are well established. The GLS DAT syllabus can be divided into two broad parts — General Aptitude and Design Creativity.
Section A: General Aptitude and Design Awareness Syllabus
- General Knowledge and Current Affairs: National and international events, important personalities, government schemes, awards and recognitions
- History of Art and Design: Major art movements, famous designers, Indian design heritage, craft traditions
- Design Concepts: Elements and principles of design, good design vs. poor design recognition
- Aesthetic Sensitivity: Colour theory, visual harmony, balance and rhythm in compositions
- Logical and Spatial Reasoning: Pattern recognition, figure-ground relationships, visual sequences
- Technology in Design: Basic awareness of design tools, materials, and processes
Section B: Drawing and Creativity Syllabus
- Drawing from Imagination: Sketching objects, people, and environments from memory and creative thought
- Composition: Arrangement of visual elements to create a balanced and engaging image
- Proportion and Perspective: Accurate representation of objects in 2D space
- Colour Application: Use of colour media (pencil, crayon, or watercolour) to express mood and theme
- Pattern and Texture: Creating surface patterns and textures with design intent
- Theme Interpretation: Translating a written or verbal prompt into a visual composition
- Transformation and Innovation: Modifying or reimagining objects and concepts creatively
- Descriptive / Essay Questions: Short written explanations of design ideas or concepts
Section B (Drawing) carries 60 marks. Even if you are not formally trained in art, practise daily sketching and observation drawing. Examiners look for creativity and the ability to communicate ideas visually, not just technical precision.
GLS DAT 2026 Admit Card
The GLS DAT admit card is released on the official admission portal a few days before the exam date. You can download it using your Unique Application Number (UAN) and registered password. The admit card is a mandatory document — you cannot enter the exam hall without it.
How to Download GLS DAT 2026 Admit Card
- Go to admission.glsuniversity.ac.in/glsid/art-login.aspx
- Login using your UAN and password
- Click on "Download Admit Card" in your applicant dashboard
- Check all details on the admit card carefully — name, roll number, exam date, exam centre
- Take a colour printout and carry it to the exam centre
Details on GLS DAT Admit Card
- Candidate name and application number
- Exam date, time, and reporting time
- Exam centre address
- Instructions for exam day
- Candidate photograph
For Round 1 of the 2026 cycle, the admit card was released a few days before the January 24–25, 2026 exam. The Round 2 admit card for 2026 will be released after the Round 2 registration closes and the exam schedule is announced.
What to Carry on Exam Day
- Printed admit card (colour printout)
- Valid photo ID — Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Government-issued ID
- Drawing materials: pencils (HB, 2B, 4B), erasers, sharpeners, colour pencils or crayons (as permitted)
- Do not carry electronic devices, books, or notes to the exam hall
GLS DAT 2026 Result and Merit List
GLS University declares the DAT result and merit list separately for each round. The merit list is not based only on DAT scores — it also includes your performance in the Personal Interview. There is no single qualifying cutoff score for GLS DAT.
How GLS DAT Result is Declared
- After the DAT exam, shortlisted candidates are called for a Personal Interview (PI) at the GLSID campus in Ahmedabad
- The merit list is prepared combining DAT exam performance and PI score
- The final merit list is published on the official admission portal
- You can check your result status by logging in with your UAN
Round-wise Result Timeline
| Round | DAT Exam | Result / Merit List |
|---|---|---|
| Round 2 (2026) | To be announced | Expected after Round 2 PI |
| Round 1 (2026) | January 24–25, 2026 (Over) | February 2026 (Over) |
How to Check GLS DAT Merit List
- Visit the official admission portal
- Login with your UAN and password
- Check your admission status under "My Application"
- If selected, you will receive an email/SMS with PI date and venue
- After PI, the final merit list is uploaded on the portal
GLS DAT 2026 Selection Process
Admission to GLS Institute of Design is not decided by the DAT score alone. The selection process at GLSID is holistic — it includes the Design Aptitude Test, a Personal Interview, and a portfolio review. Here is how the full selection process works.
Step-by-Step Selection Process
- Online Application and Fee Payment
You apply on the portal and pay Rs. 2,000. After successful payment, you get a UAN. - Design Aptitude Test (DAT)
You appear for the 100-mark exam at the GLS University campus in Ahmedabad. Section A tests general aptitude and design awareness. Section B tests drawing and creative skills. - Shortlisting for Personal Interview
Based on your DAT performance, the institute shortlists candidates for a Personal Interview. Not all test-takers are called for PI. - Personal Interview (PI) and Portfolio Review
You appear for a PI at the GLSID campus. Bringing a portfolio of your creative work — sketches, paintings, design projects, or photographs — is highly recommended. The PI assesses your interest in design, creativity, communication skills, and motivation. - Merit List Preparation
The institute prepares a merit list combining your DAT score and PI performance. The exact weightage split between DAT and PI is not publicly specified. - Document Verification
Shortlisted candidates must submit original documents for verification at the institute. - Fee Payment and Admission Confirmation
After document verification, you pay the programme fee to confirm your seat.
The Personal Interview is a key component of the GLS admission process. Start building a portfolio of your creative work early — even rough sketches, doodles, or school art projects count. It shows your genuine interest in design.
Courses and Seats at GLS Institute of Design 2026
GLS Institute of Design offers undergraduate and postgraduate design programmes across 6 specializations. Admission to all these programmes is through the GLS DAT 2026.
| Programme | Duration | Total Seats | Specializations |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Des (Bachelor of Design) | 4 Years | 200 | 6 Specializations (see below) |
| Integrated B.Des + M.Des | 5 Years | 40 | Design (Integrated) |
| Global B.Des (Hons.) | 4 Years | To be announced | Communication / Digital Design |
| M.Des (Master of Design) | 2 Years | To be announced | Design disciplines |
| Ph.D in Design | 3 Years | Limited | Design Research |
B.Des Specializations at GLS Institute of Design
| Specialization | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Fashion & Apparel Design | Garment design, fashion illustration, textile, apparel merchandising |
| Accessories & Jewellery Design | Jewellery design, leather goods, bags, accessories |
| Graphic Design | Visual communication, typography, branding, print design |
| Animation Design | 2D/3D animation, digital filmmaking, motion graphics |
| Environment & Space Design (Interior Design) | Interior design, spatial planning, environmental design |
| Product & Industrial Design | Product design, furniture design, industrial manufacturing design |
Programme Fee Structure (Approximate)
| Programme | Approximate Annual Fee | Total Programme Fee |
|---|---|---|
| B.Des (4 Years) | Rs. 2.8 – 2.94 Lakh per year | Rs. 11.2 – 14.2 Lakh (4 years) |
| Integrated B.Des + M.Des (5 Years) | Approx. Rs. 3.5 Lakh per year | Approx. Rs. 17.75 Lakh (5 years) |
| Hostel Fee | Rs. 12,000 per year | – |
Fees are approximate and based on available data. Verify exact fee amounts with the GLS University admissions office before finalizing admission.
Scholarship at GLS Institute of Design
GLS Institute of Design offers merit-based scholarships for top performers. If you perform exceptionally well, you can get a significant fee reduction. The top 3 students in each batch are awarded scholarships.
| Merit Rank | Scholarship Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1st Rank in Batch | Up to 50% of yearly fee waiver |
| 2nd Rank in Batch | Partial tuition fee waiver |
| 3rd Rank in Batch | Partial tuition fee waiver |
GLS DAT 2026 Cutoff and Merit Criteria
GLS Institute of Design does not publish a fixed score-based cutoff for DAT admission. Selection is holistic — your DAT performance, Personal Interview, and Class 12 academic record are all considered together. However, there are general benchmarks you should aim for.
Merit Criteria at GLSID
- Minimum academic eligibility: 50% marks in Class 12 is the baseline requirement to be eligible
- DAT Score: Candidates who score well in both Section A and Section B stand a much better chance of PI shortlisting
- Personal Interview: PI performance plays a major role in final selection. Students with a good portfolio, strong design interest, and clear motivation tend to do well
- No single cutoff score: GLS does not release a specific DAT score cutoff the way national-level exams do. It is a holistic merit-based selection.
What a Good Score Means in GLS DAT
Since the DAT is out of 100, scoring above 60 out of 100 is generally considered a competitive score for B.Des admission at GLSID. Because seats are limited — 200 for B.Des — your PI and portfolio can make a significant difference even if your DAT score is average.
Past admission trends suggest students from all Class 12 boards and backgrounds have been admitted to GLSID. The institute values creative potential over academic scores. Many students with 50% to 60% Class 12 marks have secured admission through strong DAT and PI performance.
Previous Year Comparison (2025 Reference)
| Parameter | 2025 Data |
|---|---|
| B.Des Seats | 200 |
| Integrated M.Des Seats | 40 |
| Official Published Cutoff Score | Not published |
| Selection Basis | DAT + Personal Interview |
| Minimum Class 12 Percentage | 50% |
| Placement Rate (2025) | 65% |
| Highest Package (2025) | Rs. 3 LPA |
Source: GLS Institute of Design
GLS DAT 2026 Counselling and Admission Process
After the GLS DAT merit list is declared, selected candidates go through a structured admission process. For Round 1, this was completed in February–March 2026. Round 2 counselling and admission will begin after the Round 2 merit list is published.
Round-wise Counselling Schedule (2026)
| Round | Merit List | Counselling | Seat Confirmation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round 2 | Expected after Round 2 DAT + PI | Expected after Round 2 Merit List | Expected after Round 2 Counselling |
| Round 1 | February 2026 (Over) | February–March 2026 (Over) | March 2026 (Over) |
Steps After Merit List — How to Confirm Admission
- Check Merit List: Login to the admission portal with your UAN and check if your name is on the merit list
- Report to Campus for Document Verification: Visit the GLS Institute of Design campus at the GLS University campus, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad – 380006 with all original documents
- Documents to carry for verification:
- Class 10 original marksheet and certificate
- Class 12 original marksheet and passing certificate
- Transfer Certificate (TC) from your school/college
- Migration Certificate (if from a different board)
- Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport)
- 4-6 recent passport-size photographs
- Caste/category certificate (if applicable)
- GLS DAT admit card printout
- Pay Programme Fee: After documents are verified, pay the first semester or full year fee to confirm your seat. Payment is accepted online and at the admission counter
- Receive Admission Letter: After fee payment, you get an official admission confirmation from GLS University
If you are selected in Round 2, act quickly. Seats remaining after Round 1 are limited. Delay in document verification or fee payment may result in loss of your seat.
GLS DAT 2026 Preparation Tips
Preparing for the GLS Design Aptitude Test is different from preparing for competitive exams like JEE or NEET. The DAT tests creativity, visual thinking, and design awareness — not bookish knowledge. Here are practical tips to help you prepare well.
1. Build Your Drawing Skills Every Day
- Spend at least 30–45 minutes sketching every day. Draw objects around you — furniture, plants, household items, people
- Practice quick sketches (2–5 minutes) to build speed and confidence
- Work on perspective drawing — learn one-point and two-point perspective for drawing interiors and architecture
- Practice shading with pencil (HB, 2B, 4B) to add depth to your drawings
2. Develop Your Colour Sense
- Learn basic colour theory: primary, secondary, and tertiary colours; warm and cool colours; complementary colours
- Practice colouring your sketches with colour pencils or crayons. Focus on neatness and consistency
- Study how colours are used in everyday design — packaging, posters, logos, fashion
3. Study Design Awareness and Art History
- Read about famous designers: Charles Eames, Le Corbusier, Paul Rand, Sabyasachi, Massimo Vignelli
- Learn about major art movements: Bauhaus, Art Deco, Modernism, Pop Art, and Indian folk art traditions like Madhubani, Warli, Kalamkari
- Follow design news, design blogs, and design awards (Red Dot Award, Good Design Award, IF Design Award)
4. Practice Theme-Based Compositions
- Pick a theme (nature, technology, festival, urban life) and draw a complete composition based on it
- This directly matches the Section B drawing questions in the DAT, which often ask you to create a composition based on a given theme
- Practice translating abstract ideas (joy, conflict, growth) into visual images
5. Work on Your Portfolio
- Start collecting your best drawings, paintings, crafts, photography, or design projects in a portfolio folder
- You will need a portfolio for the Personal Interview at GLSID. Even 8–10 good pieces are enough to start
- Include a variety — sketches, colour work, digital work (if any), and personal design experiments
6. Stay Current with General Awareness
- Read newspapers or news apps for 15–20 minutes daily to stay updated on current affairs for Section A
- Focus on areas relevant to design: technology, fashion trends, architecture, art exhibitions, and government design initiatives like Make in India
7. Attempt Mock Drawing Exercises
- Set a timer and complete a full drawing exercise in 40–50 minutes to simulate exam conditions
- Practice drawing without erasing too much — DAT examiners value confident, expressive lines over perfect technical drawings
About GLS Institute of Design
GLS Institute of Design (GLSID) is the design school of GLS University, located on the historic Gujarat Law Society campus in Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad. The institute is part of a university whose roots go back to the Gujarat Law Society founded in 1927, giving it a long educational legacy.
Key Facts About GLS Institute of Design
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Parent University | GLS University (Gujarat Law Society University) |
| Year Established (GLSID) | 2016 |
| NAAC Accreditation | Grade A+ (GLS University) |
| UGC Recognition | Yes |
| Location | GLS University Campus, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad – 380006, Gujarat |
| IIRF Ranking | Among Top Private Design Colleges in India |
| Design Disciplines | Fashion, Communication, Environment & Space, Product & Industrial Design |
| Website | glsid.org |
| design@glsuniversity.ac.in |
Why Choose GLS Institute of Design?
- Location advantage: Ahmedabad is one of India’s most vibrant design and creative cities — home to NID (National Institute of Design), CEPT University, and a thriving fashion and manufacturing industry
- Industry connections: GLSID has connections with design companies, fashion houses, and creative agencies in Gujarat and beyond
- Wide specialization choice: With 6 B.Des specializations, you can find your niche — whether it is fashion, animation, product design, or interior design
- Integrated M.Des option: Students who want a deeper academic journey can opt for the 5-year Integrated B.Des + M.Des programme
- NAAC A+ university: GLSID is backed by a NAAC A+ accredited university, which adds value to your degree
- Merit scholarships: The top 3 rankers in each batch get tuition fee waivers, with the topper getting up to 50% of the yearly fee
Placement at GLS Institute of Design
- Placement rate in 2025: 65%
- Highest package: Rs. 3 LPA
- Average package: Rs. 1.80 LPA
- Top recruiters include: Swiggy, Godrej, Design Ki Peti, and Task Design
- Alumni work in fashion, communication design, animation studios, interior design firms, and product companies across India
GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026 FAQs
Ques. What is GLS DAT exam?
Ans. GLS DAT stands for GLS Design Aptitude Test. It is the entrance exam conducted by GLS University, Ahmedabad for admission to B.Des, Integrated M.Des, M.Des, and Global B.Des programmes at GLS Institute of Design (GLSID). The DAT is a 100-mark exam with two sections — Section A (General Aptitude, MCQ) and Section B (Drawing and Descriptive). There is no negative marking. After the DAT, shortlisted candidates appear for a Personal Interview before the final merit list is prepared.
Ques. Is GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026 Round 2 registration open?
Ans. Yes, Round 2 applications for GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026 are currently open as of May 30, 2026. You can apply at the official admission portal: admission.glsuniversity.ac.in/glsid/art-login.aspx. The application fee is Rs. 2,000. Round 1 for the 2026 cycle was conducted in January 2026 and its results were declared in February 2026. Round 2 is the second opportunity to apply for the 2026 intake.
Ques. What is the eligibility for GLS Institute of Design admission 2026?
Ans. To be eligible for GLS DAT 2026, you must have passed Class 12 (10+2) from any recognized board — CBSE, State Board, CISCE, or equivalent — in any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts) with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate. There is no age limit. Students who are currently appearing in Class 12 exams in 2026 can also apply, provided they submit the final marksheet at the time of admission. For M.Des, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree with 50% marks.
Ques. What is the exam pattern for GLS DAT 2026?
Ans. The GLS DAT 2026 is a 100-mark exam. It has two sections:
- Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) on General Aptitude, Design Awareness, Art History, and Current Affairs — 40 marks
- Section B: Drawing and Descriptive questions testing creativity, composition, visualization, and colour sense — 60 marks
There is no negative marking. The exam is held at GLS University’s campus in Ahmedabad in the mode notified for each round.
Ques. What is the application fee for GLS Institute of Design DAT 2026?
Ans. The application fee for GLS DAT 2026 is Rs. 2,000 for all categories. There is no fee waiver or category-based concession. Payment must be made online through UPI, credit card, debit card, or net banking at the time of submitting the application form. The fee is non-refundable.
Ques. How many seats are there in GLS Institute of Design B.Des?
Ans. GLS Institute of Design offers 200 seats in the B.Des (Bachelor of Design) 4-year programme across 6 specializations: Fashion & Apparel Design, Accessories & Jewellery Design, Graphic Design, Animation Design, Environment & Space Design (Interior Design), and Product & Industrial Design. In addition, there are 40 seats in the 5-year Integrated B.Des + M.Des programme. Round 2 of the 2026 admission cycle is currently open for these seats.
Ques. What is the fee for B.Des at GLS Institute of Design?
Ans. The annual tuition fee for B.Des at GLS Institute of Design is approximately Rs. 2.8 to 2.94 lakh per year, making the total 4-year programme fee approximately Rs. 11.2 to Rs. 14.2 lakh. Hostel fees are approximately Rs. 12,000 per year. GLS University also offers merit-based scholarships to the top 3 students in each batch, with the topper getting up to 50% of the yearly fee waived. Verify the exact fee at glsid.org or by contacting the admissions office directly.
Ques. Is there any negative marking in GLS DAT 2026?
Ans. No, there is no negative marking in the GLS Design Aptitude Test 2026. You will not lose marks for wrong answers in Section A (MCQ). Section B (Drawing) is evaluated on creativity, composition, and quality — it is not a right-or-wrong marking system. This means you should attempt all questions in Section A without fear of losing marks.
Ques. What is the selection process for GLS Institute of Design admission?
Ans. The selection process at GLS Institute of Design involves three stages: (1) Design Aptitude Test (DAT) — a 100-mark exam; (2) Personal Interview (PI) and Portfolio Review at the GLSID campus in Ahmedabad for shortlisted candidates; and (3) Merit List — prepared by combining your DAT score and PI performance. Final admission is through document verification and fee payment. There is no single score-based cutoff — selection is holistic, and a strong portfolio and interview can significantly improve your chances.
Ques. Can students from any stream apply for GLS DAT?
Ans. Yes, students from all streams — Science, Commerce, and Arts — can apply for GLS DAT 2026. There is no stream restriction for B.Des admission at GLS Institute of Design. The only academic requirement is that you must have passed Class 12 with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks from any recognized board. There is also no age limit for applying.
Ques. How do I download the GLS DAT 2026 admit card?
Ans. You can download the GLS DAT 2026 admit card from the official admission portal at admission.glsuniversity.ac.in/glsid/art-login.aspx by logging in with your Unique Application Number (UAN) and password. The admit card is released a few days before the exam date. You must carry a colour printout of the admit card along with a valid photo ID to the exam hall. Without the admit card, entry to the exam will not be permitted.
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