NIFT 2026 Applications Opening Soon! Are You Eligible? Here's What You Need to Know

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct the NIFT Entrance Exam 2026 for admission to courses such as B.Des, M.Des, B.F.Tech, M.F.Tech, and M.F.M, across all its NIFT campuses and partner institutions.

As per the academic cycle, the application form is likely to be released in November 2025, followed by a registration window running until January 2026 (without late fee). Candidates should keep their identity proof, academic records, photograph, signature, and category certificates ready to ensure smooth submission once the forms go live.

Applicants may also apply during a late-fee period, potentially paying around ₹5,000 extra in addition to the base fee of approximately ₹3,000 for general category and ₹1,500 for SC/ST/PwD.

NIFT 2026 Tentative Exam Dates

NIFT Entrance Exam 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Admission through NIFT Entrance Exam 2026 will cover UG and PG programmes such as B.Des, M.Des, B.F.Tech, M.F.Tech and M.F.M. For UG courses, candidates must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent), while PG applicants require a relevant bachelor’s degree as per the official criteria.

Read More: NIFT Preparation: Best Books, Coaching Center, Last Minute Tips

NIFT Entrance Exam 2026 Pattern

The exam features two key components: the General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT) for design-focused programmes. Candidates applying for B.Des and M.Des must also appear for a Situation Test or Interview in the later stage. For reference, the GAT for technical programmes such as B.F.Tech, M.F.Tech and M.F.M will typically run for 180 minutes, while the CAT for B.Des/M.Des is conducted offline for 3 hours.

The NIFT 2026 written exam is likely to be held in the second week of February 2026, and results may be declared by April 2026. Post-results, shortlisted candidates will undergo counselling, situation test/interview, document verification, and seat allotment based on rank, programme preference and campus choice.

Top campuses participating in the admission process include NIFT Delhi, NIFT Mumbai, NIFT Bengaluru, NIFT Chennai, NIFT Kolkata and NIFT Hyderabad, among others.

Each NIFT campus will release individual cut-offs and programme-wise ranks during counselling. Candidates are advised to track programme details, cut-off trends and campus information through the official website and university portals.

Also Check: NIFT 2025 Official Papers, Check Previous Year Sample Papers and Benefits of Solving