The National Institute of Design (NID) has officially commenced the admission process for its prestigious Bachelor of Design (B.Des), Master of Design (M.Des), and Graduate Diploma Programme in Design (GDPD) for the academic year 2026-27. Aspiring designers can submit their applications through the official website, admissions.nid.edu.
The entrance process will be based on the NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT), a two-stage examination comprising a preliminary and a mains round. This is a crucial opportunity for students seeking a career in design at India’s premier design institute. All design aspirants should read these nid entrance exam tips to get started. This guide on how to prepare for an exam at the last minute is a lifesaver for cramming.
Key Highlights & Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Online Application | Open Now |
| Last Date to Apply | November 11, 2025 (11:59 PM IST) |
| Application Correction Window | November 15 – 18, 2025 |
| NID DAT 2026 Prelims Exam Date | January 5, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Admit Card Release | To be announced later |
NID Programs Offered & Eligibility
- Bachelor of Design (B.Des) – 4-year program
- Master of Design (M.Des) – 2.5-year program
- Graduate Diploma Programme in Design (GDPD) – 4-year program (Offered at NID Andhra Pradesh and NID Assam campuses)
Eligibility: For B.Des/GDPD, candidates must have passed or appeared in Class 12th (or equivalent) in any stream in 2025 or 2026. For M.Des, a Bachelor’s degree is required. Candidates are advised to refer to the official information brochure for detailed eligibility criteria, including age limits and category-wise reservations.
NID DAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The NID admission process is highly competitive and consists of two stages:
- DAT Prelims: A written test evaluating design aptitude, creativity, observational skills, and visual perception through drawing, sketching, and objective-type questions.
- DAT Mains: Only shortlisted candidates from the Prelims will be called for the Mains, which involves studio tests, portfolio assessment, and a personal interview.
How to Apply for NID DAT 2026
- Visit the official application portal: https://admissions.nid.edu.
- Download and carefully read the official Information Brochure.
- Click on ‘New Registration’ and complete the sign-up using a valid email and mobile number.
- Log in and fill out the detailed application form with personal, academic, and program preference details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and necessary documents in the prescribed format.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee online (via Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI).
- Submit the form and print the confirmation page for future reference.
NID Application Fee
The application fee varies based on the category and the number of programs chosen. General/OBC-NCL candidates typically have a higher fee compared to SC/ST/PwD candidates. The exact fee structure is detailed in the information brochure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the last date to apply for NID 2026?
A: The last date to submit the online application is November 11, 2025.
Q: Can I apply for multiple programs?
A: Yes, you can apply for multiple programs and campuses through a single application form, subject to eligibility.
Q: When is the NID DAT Prelims exam?
A: The NID DAT 2026 Prelims exam will be held on January 5, 2026.
Q: Who should I contact for technical issues?
A: The official portal has a ‘Helpdesk’ section with contact details for technical support regarding the application process.
Conclusion: The NID DAT is the gateway to some of the most sought-after design programs in India. Candidates are strongly advised to read the information brochure thoroughly before starting their application. Bookmark this page on MyEntrance.in for the latest updates on admit cards, results, and counselling.
