What are the stages of NIFT Entrance Exam?

NIFT entrance has three stages: the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT) are conducted on the same day. Candidates shortlisted based on CAT and GAT scores are called for the Situation Test, which is a hands-on material handling and creative task conducted offline. Final selection is based on combined scores of all three stages.

What is tested in NIFT Creative Ability Test (CAT)?

The CAT evaluates creative and design thinking ability through tasks like illustration, colour composition, theme-based drawing, and object visualisation. Candidates are given materials and asked to create visual compositions demonstrating originality, use of colour, line quality, and spatial awareness. CAT is conducted offline and lasts about 2.5 hours.

What subjects are covered in NIFT GAT?

The General Ability Test covers quantitative ability, communication ability, English comprehension, analytical ability, and general knowledge including awareness of fashion, design, and current events. It is a computer-based multiple-choice test. A basic understanding of design aesthetics, fashion industry awareness, and language skills are key to scoring well in GAT.

How many campuses does NIFT have?

NIFT has 18 campuses across India including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and more. The flagship campus in New Delhi is the most prestigious. All campuses offer the same NTA-monitored entrance process, but campus allocation is based on merit and preference.

Does NIFT offer programs other than Fashion Design?

Yes, NIFT offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs including Fashion Design, Leather Design, Accessory Design, Textile Design, Fashion Communication, and Fashion Technology. At the PG level, NIFT offers Master of Design (MDes) and Master of Fashion Management (MFM) programs. Each program has slightly different evaluation criteria in the selection process.

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NIFT Entrance Preparation Guide

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)

Your Complete Preparation Guide for NIFT Entrance 2027 — strategy, study plan, tips & more.

DifficultyHard

Total Marks200

Duration210 min

Start Practising Now →Free Mock Tests

Exam Overview

Mode

Computer Based Test + Creative Ability Test (offline)

Frequency

Once a year (January)

Next Exam Date

January 2027

EEligibility Criteria

Class 12 passed or appearing from any stream; minimum 45% for UG programs; minimum age 18

ANumber of Attempts

No restrictions

Study Plan by Subject

Creative Ability Test (CAT)

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

General Ability Test (GAT)

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Situation Test (for shortlisted candidates)

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Expert Preparation Tips

Develop your drawing and illustration skills with daily practice — focus on fashion sketches, figure drawing with proportions, and fabric draping illustration.

Read fashion magazines (Vogue, Harper's Bazaar), follow design trends, and build awareness of fashion history and contemporary designers for CAT themes and GAT GK questions.

For GAT, practice English comprehension, quantitative aptitude, and analytical reasoning using standard aptitude books and previous NIFT GAT papers.

Prepare a creative portfolio before the Situation Test — practice using given materials (cardboard, fabric swatches, wire) to create 3D models and visual displays within time constraints.

Exam Pattern at a Glance

Section	Questions	Marks	Duration (est.)
Creative Ability Test (CAT)	28	67	70 min
General Ability Test (GAT)	28	67	70 min
Situation Test (for shortlisted candidates)	28	67	70 min
Total	85	200	210 min

Important Dates

Registration Opens

October–November 2026

Next Exam Date

January 2027

Conducted By

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)

Frequently Asked Questions

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