NIFT
NIFT
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance
Conducted by
NIFT (via NTA)
Level
B.Des · B.FTech · M.Des · M.FTech · MFM
When
Written exam in February · Situation Test / Interview in April–May
Colleges
18 NIFT campuses including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Gandhinagar and Patna
What the exam is
NIFT is the largest design entrance in the country by seats. For B.Des, there are two written papers — the Creative Ability Test (CAT), which tests drawing and visualisation, and the General Ability Test (GAT), an objective paper on reasoning, English, quantitative ability and general awareness.
Candidates who clear the written stage are called for a Situation Test, where you make a 3D model from given materials in a fixed time and write a short note explaining it.
Fashion design is the best‑known programme, but NIFT also offers accessory, textile, knitwear, leather and communication design, so it is worth looking beyond the obvious.
Exam pattern
CAT (Creative Ability Test) — drawing, illustration and visualisation questions, evaluated manually.
GAT (General Ability Test) — objective: quantitative ability, communication ability, English comprehension, analytical ability, general knowledge and current affairs.
Situation Test — a hands‑on 3D model‑making task with a written explanation.
Final merit for B.Des combines CAT, GAT and the Situation Test; weightage is published each year in the prospectus.
Who can apply
B.Des: Class 12 passed or appearing, any stream, with an upper age limit. M.Des: a bachelor’s degree, or a NID/NIFT undergraduate diploma.
Mentor’s tip
NIFT’s CAT is time-bound and rewards clean, quick visualisation. Practise 2-hour timed sketching sets.
Prepare with DDM
Live batches, mock series with Part B evaluation, and a free 15-minute call to plan your months.