NATA 2026: Exam Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Pattern, Cutoff and B.Arch Admission

NATA 2026 (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) is conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission to B.Arch programmes across more than 300 accredited colleges in India. Phase 1 of NATA 2026, held every Friday and Saturday from April 4 to June 13, 2026, has concluded and Phase 1 results have been declared. Phase 2 registration is now open at nata.in, with the exam scheduled for August 7 and 8, 2026, exclusively for candidates who did not appear in Phase 1.

• Phase 2 Registration Deadline: NATA 2026 Phase 2 registration opened on June 23, 2026. The last date to register for the August 7 (Friday) exam is August 3, 2026 at 11:59 PM. For the August 8 (Saturday) exam, registration closes August 4, 2026 at 11:59 PM. Only candidates who did not take any Phase 1 attempt are eligible for Phase 2.
• Phase 2 Exam: NATA 2026 Phase 2 will be held on August 7 and 8, 2026. August 7 (Friday) has an afternoon session only (1:30 PM – 4:30 PM). August 8 (Saturday) offers both a morning session (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) and an afternoon session (1:30 PM – 4:30 PM). In 2025, more than 55,000 candidates appeared in NATA across both phases combined.
• Phase 2 Admit Card: The admit card for the August 7 exam will be available from August 4, 2026 (Tuesday). For August 8, the admit card will be released on August 5, 2026 (Wednesday). There is no physical admit card — download it from your student login at nata.in.
• Phase 2 Result: Phase 2 results are declared within 7 days of the exam — expected by around August 15, 2026. Phase 2 candidates receive a raw score only; percentile is computed for Phase 1 candidates only. Your scorecard will be available in your student login portal on nata.in.

What is NATA 2026?

NATA stands for National Aptitude Test in Architecture. The Council of Architecture (CoA), a statutory body under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, conducts NATA every year. The exam tests a candidate’s aptitude in mathematics, general aptitude, and drawing — the three foundational skills required for a five-year B.Arch programme. More than 55,000 students appeared for NATA in 2025, competing for B.Arch seats in more than 300 accredited architecture colleges across India.

For 2026, the exam runs in two phases. Phase 1 offered multiple weekly test slots every Friday and Saturday from April 4 to June 13, 2026, and has now concluded. Phase 2 is a single concentrated window on August 7 and 8, 2026. A candidate can appear in Phase 1 (up to 2 attempts) or Phase 2 (1 attempt) — but not in both. Your NATA 2026 score is valid only for B.Arch admissions in the 2026–27 academic session.

Unlike JEE Main Paper 2 (B.Arch), there is no centralized national counselling for NATA. Each state and college runs its own admission process. Most institutes use a combined merit formula — typically 50% of your NATA score and 50% of your Class 12 aggregate marks, though the weightage varies by college and state.

Source: Council of Architecture — nata.in

NATA 2026 Important Dates

The table below lists all key NATA 2026 dates. Upcoming events appear first in chronological order. Events that have already passed are shown at the bottom with a (Over) status tag.

The Phase 2 registration deadline follows a rolling weekly pattern. August 3 and August 4 are the final closing dates for the August 7 and August 8 exam slots respectively. There are no further Phase 2 exam sessions beyond these two dates.

NATA 2026 Phase 2 Registration: Dates, Fees and Steps

NATA 2026 Phase 2 registration opened on June 23, 2026 at the official student registration portal. This window is exclusively for candidates who have not attempted Phase 1. If you appeared in even one Phase 1 session between April 4 and June 13, 2026, you are not eligible for Phase 2.

Phase 2 offers three test slots across two days: an afternoon session on Friday August 7 (1:30 PM – 4:30 PM), and a morning session (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) plus afternoon session (1:30 PM – 4:30 PM) on Saturday August 8. You can register for one slot only. The exam structure — 3 hours, 200 marks, Part A offline drawing and Part B computer-based aptitude — is identical to Phase 1.

NATA 2026 Application Fee

Source: NATA 2026 Fee Structure — nata.in

The fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Payment is accepted online through credit card, debit card, or net banking. You will receive a confirmation page immediately after successful payment — save and print this for your records.

Important: Do not submit more than one application using different credentials. Duplicate registrations will be rejected without a refund, and the Council of Architecture reserves the right to take legal action.

Step-by-Step: How to Register for NATA 2026 Phase 2

• Step 1: Go to the official NATA student registration portal at nata.in. Click "New Registration" if you are a first-time applicant.
• Step 2: Enter your personal details — full name (exactly as in Class 10 certificate), date of birth, email ID, and mobile number — to create your login credentials.
• Step 3: Fill in your academic details: Class 12 board name, year of passing, and aggregate percentage of marks.
• Step 4: Upload your scanned documents — passport-size photograph with white background, your signature, and your Class 12 marksheet or certificate.
• Step 5: Choose your preferred exam date (August 7 or August 8) and session (morning or afternoon, where available).
• Step 6: Pay the registration fee through the online payment gateway and download your confirmation page.

NATA 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before you register for NATA 2026, check the eligibility requirements set by the Council of Architecture. These cover your educational qualification, minimum marks, and the subjects you studied in Class 12.

Academic Qualification

• You must have passed Class 10+2 (or an equivalent exam) with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
• Alternatively, if you hold a 10+3 Diploma (3-year diploma after Class 10), Mathematics must be a compulsory subject in your diploma programme.
• Minimum aggregate marks required: 45% in the qualifying examination (10+2 or 10+3 diploma).
• Candidates from SC / ST / OBC-NCL / PwD categories need a minimum aggregate of 40% (5% relaxation on the standard 45% requirement).

Age Limit

The Council of Architecture has not set a minimum or maximum age limit for NATA 2026. Candidates of any age can apply as long as they meet the academic eligibility requirements above.

Attempt and Phase Rules

• Phase 1: You could appear in up to 2 different test sessions within the Phase 1 window (April 4 – June 13, 2026). Phase 1 is now concluded.
• Phase 2: You can appear in only 1 test session on either August 7 or August 8, 2026. Phase 2 is available only to candidates who did not attempt Phase 1 at all.
• Appearing in both phases is not permitted under any circumstances.

Note for B.Arch College Admissions: NATA eligibility only requires Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level. However, most accredited B.Arch colleges require Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as part of their own admission criteria. Confirm each college’s subject requirements before applying.

How to Apply for NATA 2026

The NATA 2026 application process is entirely online. For Phase 2 candidates, the application window is currently open at nata.in. Here is what you need to keep ready before you start filling the form.

Documents Required for NATA 2026 Application

• Photograph: Recent passport-size photo with plain white background (JPG format, specific pixel dimensions as specified in the official NATA brochure)
• Signature: Clear scanned signature on white paper (JPG format)
• Date of Birth Proof: Class 10 admit card or school leaving certificate
• Class 12 Marksheet or Certificate: For verification of subject combinations and aggregate percentage
• Category Certificate: SC / ST / OBC-NCL / EWS / PwD certificate, if you are claiming a fee concession or reservation

Tips to Fill the NATA 2026 Application Form Correctly

• Use a personal email ID that you check regularly — all official communications from CoA, including admit card and result notifications, will go to this address.
• Enter your name exactly as it appears in your Class 10 certificate, including initials and spelling.
• Double-check your date of birth before submitting. This field cannot be corrected after the correction window closes.
• Select your preferred exam centre city carefully. The CoA assigns a specific centre within that city based on availability.
• Save your application reference number, confirmation page, and fee payment receipt — you will need them if any issue arises with your application later.

The NATA 2026 application fee is non-refundable once paid. Review all entries carefully before clicking "Submit."

NATA 2026 Syllabus: Subject-wise Topics

The NATA 2026 syllabus covers three broad areas — Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing. Mathematics and General Aptitude are assessed in Part B (computer-based), while Drawing is assessed in Part A (offline). Here is a topic-wise breakdown for each section.

Mathematics (Part B — 20 Questions, 40 Marks)

The Mathematics section is based on Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT topics. Key chapters to focus on:

• Algebra: Sets, relations and functions, quadratic equations, complex numbers, sequence and series, permutation and combination, binomial theorem, matrices and determinants, logarithms
• Trigonometry: Trigonometric ratios, identities, inverse trigonometric functions, heights and distances
• Coordinate Geometry (2D): Straight lines, circles, parabola, ellipse, distance formula, section formula, slope of a line
• Coordinate Geometry (3D): Points in 3D space, direction cosines, equation of planes
• Calculus: Limits, derivatives (first and second order), indefinite and definite integrals, basic differential equations
• Statistics and Probability: Mean, median, mode, standard deviation, basic probability, random variables

General Aptitude (Part B — 40 Questions, 80 Marks)

This section tests visual, spatial, logical, and architectural reasoning. Key topics include:

• Visual and Spatial Reasoning: 3D visualization from 2D drawings, mirror images, mental rotation of objects, pattern recognition
• Colour Theory: Primary, secondary, and complementary colours, colour harmony, tonal mixing, use of shade and shadow
• Architectural Awareness: Famous Indian and international architects (Charles Correa, B.V. Doshi, Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright), iconic buildings, architectural styles and movements
• Building Anatomy: Structural elements (beams, columns, slabs), common construction materials, basic building technology vocabulary
• Logical Reasoning: Number and letter series, analogies, odd-one-out, Venn diagrams, coding-decoding
• Numerical Ability: Ratios, percentages, basic arithmetic, data interpretation
• Language and Interpretation: Short reading passages related to architecture and the built environment

Drawing (Part A — 80 Marks)

Part A evaluates your freehand drawing ability, creative composition skills, and spatial thinking. All drawing is done on paper at the exam centre. The three sub-sections are:

• A1 — Composition and Color: Draw an arrangement of objects or a scene using color media. Tests your understanding of color theory, visual balance, perspective, shadow, and aesthetic composition.
• A2 — Sketching and Composition (Black and White): Freehand pencil sketch with shading, proportion, and perspective. You may be asked to sketch objects, spaces, or imaginative scenes.
• A3 — 3D Composition: Visualize and draw a 3D arrangement based on given clues, or compose an imaginative 3D form on paper. Tests spatial thinking and your ability to render three-dimensional forms on a flat surface.

There is no prescribed textbook for the Drawing section. Consistent daily practice with varied prompts is the most effective way to prepare.

NATA 2026 Admit Card

The NATA 2026 admit card is released online through the student login portal at nata.in. No physical hall ticket is dispatched by post — you must download and print your admit card before heading to the exam centre. For Phase 2, the release schedule is as follows:

• Admit card for the August 7 (Friday) exam: Available from August 4, 2026 (Tuesday)
• Admit card for the August 8 (Saturday) exam: Available from August 5, 2026 (Wednesday)

How to Download the NATA 2026 Admit Card

• Step 1: Go to the official NATA website at nata.in.
• Step 2: Click on the "Student Login" or "Admit Card" link on the homepage.
• Step 3: Log in using your Application Number and Date of Birth (or password set during registration).
• Step 4: Click "Download Admit Card" from your dashboard and save the PDF.
• Step 5: Print at least two copies — carry one to the exam centre and keep one as a backup.

Details on the NATA 2026 Admit Card

• Candidate’s full name and application number
• Exam date, session timings, and shift (morning / afternoon)
• Exam centre name, address, and centre code
• Candidate’s photograph and signature
• Exam day instructions and list of permitted items

You must carry a printed admit card along with a valid government photo ID (Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport) on exam day. Entry to the exam centre is not permitted without a valid printed admit card, even if you have a digital copy on your phone.

NATA 2026 Result and Scorecard

NATA 2026 Phase 1 results have been declared. Scorecards with percentile scores are available in the student login portal at nata.in for all candidates who appeared in Phase 1 between April 4 and June 13, 2026. Phase 2 results will be declared within 7 days of the exam — expected by around August 15, 2026.

Phase 1 vs Phase 2 Scorecard: A Key Difference

The scoring method differs between the two phases, and understanding this difference matters for B.Arch applications.

• Phase 1 Scorecard: Shows your raw score out of 200 and a percentile score. The CoA computes the percentile after all Phase 1 sessions (April–June) are over, normalizing scores across different test slots. If you appeared twice in Phase 1, the better raw score is used. The percentile shows how you rank relative to all Phase 1 test-takers nationwide.
• Phase 2 Scorecard: Shows your raw score out of 200 only. Percentile is not computed for Phase 2 since it is a single closed window with no cross-session normalization required. Colleges comparing Phase 2 candidates use the raw score directly.

How to Download Your NATA 2026 Scorecard

• Log in to your student portal at nata.in with your application credentials.
• Click "Download Scorecard" from your dashboard.
• Save and print the scorecard — most colleges require a printed copy at the time of document verification during counselling.

The NATA 2026 score is valid only for B.Arch admissions in the 2026–27 academic session. It cannot be used for admissions in the 2027–28 session.

Top Colleges Accepting NATA 2026 Score

More than 300 accredited B.Arch colleges across India accept NATA 2026 scores for admission. These include national-level government institutes, state government colleges, deemed universities, and private colleges. Here are some of the most sought-after NATA-accepting colleges based on reputation and admission competitiveness.

This is not an exhaustive list. Over 500 accredited B.Arch programmes exist across India. Confirm each college’s exact admission requirements and whether they accept NATA or also require additional entrance tests before applying.

Preparation Tips for NATA 2026 Phase 2

If you are appearing for NATA 2026 Phase 2 in August, you have approximately 5–6 weeks from today. Here is a structured plan to use this time effectively.

Drawing Practice (Part A — 80 Marks)

• Practice every day: Dedicate at least 1–2 hours to drawing daily. Consistency builds the hand-eye coordination and drawing speed you need within 90 minutes on exam day.
• Work on color theory: Practice compositions using color pencils or poster colors. Understand primary, secondary, and complementary colors, and how to use them to create balance, depth, and focal points in your drawings.
• Time your sessions: You have 90 minutes for Part A on exam day. Practice finishing complete drawing tasks within this window so you are not rushed.
• Study previous NATA drawing questions: Past year drawing prompts show you what types of compositions, 3D tasks, and color exercises are commonly asked. Use them as practice material.

Part B — Aptitude and Mathematics (120 Marks)

• Mathematics: Revise Class 11 and 12 NCERT Mathematics. Focus especially on Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, and Calculus — these topics carry the most weight in the NATA math section. Practice at least 20–30 questions per major topic.
• Architectural Awareness: Read about well-known Indian architects — Charles Correa, B.V. Doshi, Balkrishna Doshi — and international figures like Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Zaha Hadid. Know the names and locations of their key buildings.
• Spatial Reasoning: Practice mental rotation, mirror image, and 3D visualization problems every day. These are consistently high-scoring areas for candidates who prepare specifically for them.
• Mock Tests: Take at least 2–3 full-length mock tests before August 7. Full-length practice builds your stamina for 3 hours of continuous effort and reveals which topics need more attention.

Exam Day Checklist

• Carry your printed admit card and a valid government photo ID.
• Bring the drawing materials listed in your admit card instructions — typically HB and 2B pencils, color pencils, eraser, and sharpener. Do not bring items not on the permitted list.
• Reach your exam centre at least 30 minutes before your session start time. Latecomers may not be permitted entry after the session begins.