NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam Guide for Fashion Aspirants. The NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam is a crucial gateway for students who dream of building a career in fashion design, technology, management, and creative industries.
Conducted for admission into India’s most reputed fashion institute, NIFT continues to attract thousands of aspirants every year. For the academic session 2026, the application form was released in December 2025, and the exam dates have also been officially announced.
Students applying for NIFT 2026 should understand the exam structure, eligibility rules, syllabus, and admission process in detail to avoid last-minute confusion.
“Fashion is not just about style; it is about skill, discipline, and creativity—and NIFT 2026 is the first step towards mastering all three.”
The entrance examination is conducted by the National Testing Agency on behalf of the National Institute of Fashion Technology. Admissions are offered to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across multiple NIFT campuses in India.
Overview of NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam Guide for Fashion Aspirants
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Department | Fashion Design, Technology & Management |
| State | Pan-India (National Level) |
| Target Students | 10+2 pass & graduates aspiring for fashion careers |
| Important Dates | December 2025 – June 2026 |
| Important Change | Online application with a defined correction window |
| Application Fee Range | ₹500 – ₹3000 (based on category & programmes) |
| Official Website | nift.ac.in |
What is the NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam?
The NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam is a national-level examination conducted for admission into popular courses such as B.Des, B.F.Tech, M.Des, MFM, and MFT. The exam evaluates candidates on creativity, analytical skills, communication ability, and general awareness of the fashion industry.
The test is divided into two major parts—General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT). Depending on the course, candidates may need to appear for one or both sections. For final selection, shortlisted candidates are further assessed through a Situation Test or an Interview.
NIFT 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Application Start Date | December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 2026 |
| Correction Window | Mid-January 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | February 2026 |
| Entrance Exam Date | February 2026 |
| Result Declaration | March 2026 |
| Situation Test / Interview | April 2026 |
| Counselling Process | May – June 2026 |
NIFT 2026 Application Form Details
The NIFT 2026 application form is available online only. Candidates must ensure that all information entered is accurate and matches official documents. Once submitted, the application fee is non-refundable.
Applicants are advised to keep a printed copy of the filled form and payment confirmation for future reference. Any corrections in the form can be made only during the officially announced correction window.
NIFT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
For Undergraduate Programmes (B.Des & B.F.Tech)
- Maximum age: 24 years as of August 2026
- Relaxation of 5 years for reserved categories
- Passed 10+2 from a recognised board
- Mathematics is compulsory for B.F.Tech
- Appearing candidates can apply
For Postgraduate Programmes (M.Des, MFM & MFT)
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university
- Final-year students are also eligible
Meeting the eligibility criteria is mandatory to appear in the NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam.
NIFT 2026 Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for NIFT 2026 varies by programme:
- GAT: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- CAT: Pen-and-paper based test
- Questions: Objective type (MCQs)
- Medium: English & Hindi
- Negative Marking: 25% for each wrong answer
GAT Section Weightage
| Section | Weightage |
| Communication Ability | High |
| Quantitative Ability | Moderate |
| Analytical & Logical Ability | Moderate |
| General Knowledge | High |
NIFT 2026 Syllabus Highlights
The NIFT 2026 syllabus focuses on evaluating both academic and creative potential:
- Quantitative Ability: Percentages, ratios, averages
- Communication Ability: Vocabulary, grammar, comprehension
- Logical Reasoning: Series, patterns, problem-solving
- General Knowledge: Fashion industry, current affairs
- Creative Ability (CAT): Drawing skills, visualisation, design concepts
Regular practice of sketching and observing design trends is essential for success.
NIFT 2026 Preparation Tips
- Start preparation early to manage creativity and theory
- Practice drawing daily for CAT
- Revise GK with a focus on fashion and design
- Solve previous years’ papers for GAT
- Work on time management and accuracy
Consistent preparation can significantly improve performance in the NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam.
NIFT 2026 Result, Cut-Off & Counselling
The NIFT 2026 result will be declared in March 2026. The final merit list is prepared by combining scores of GAT, CAT, and Situation Test or Interview.
Cut-off marks depend on exam difficulty, number of candidates, seat availability, and category-wise reservation. Counselling will be conducted online in multiple rounds during May and June 2026.
Why Choose NIFT 2026?
NIFT offers industry-oriented education, experienced faculty, and excellent placement opportunities in the fashion and lifestyle sector. Clearing the NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam opens doors to top design careers in India and abroad.
FAQs on NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam Guide for Fashion Aspirants
When did NIFT 2026 registration start?
December 2025.
Is NIFT 2026 conducted online?
GAT is online; CAT is offline.
Can final-year students apply for NIFT 2026?
Yes, they are eligible.
Is there negative marking in NIFT 2026?
Yes, 25% marks are deducted.
When will NIFT 2026 counselling begin?
From May or June 2026.
