NID DAT 2026 registration is now live! Learn how to apply online with this step-by-step guide, including eligibility, deadlines, and key instructions.
The National Institute of Design (NID), one of India’s most prestigious design schools, has officially opened the registration window for the Design Aptitude Test (DAT) 2026. The DAT is the mandatory entrance exam for securing admission into the Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Design (M.Des) programmes across various NID campuses.
For aspiring designers across the country, this marks the beginning of their journey to study at a globally recognised design institution. If you are planning to apply, here’s everything you need to know—from eligibility criteria to deadlines and the step-by-step process of filling the application form.
Important Dates for NID DAT 2026
- Application deadline: December 1, 2025 (11:59 PM sharp)
- DAT Prelims exam date: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Students are advised not to wait until the last moment to apply. Early registration ensures enough time to check details, upload documents correctly, and avoid last-minute technical glitches.
Programmes Offered
Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
The B.Des programme is available at NID campuses located in:
- Ahmedabad
- Andhra Pradesh
- Haryana
- Madhya Pradesh
- Assam
Master of Design (M.Des)
The M.Des programme is offered at NID campuses in:
- Ahmedabad
- Gandhinagar
- Bengaluru
Both programmes are highly competitive, with thousands of applicants vying for a limited number of seats each year.
Eligibility Criteria
For B.Des Applicants
- Must have passed or be appearing for the Class 12 (10+2) examination in 2024–25.
- Eligible streams: Science, Commerce, Arts, or Humanities from any recognised board.
For M.Des Applicants
You must hold one of the following:
- A bachelor’s degree or a four-year diploma after Class 12 from a recognised institution.
- A bachelor’s degree of at least three years in any discipline after Class 12 or equivalent.
International applicants are also eligible to apply, provided they submit relevant documentation like a valid passport.
How to Apply for NID DAT 2026
The entire application process is online via the official website admissions.nid.edu. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the website and click on the “Sign Up” option under the “How to Apply” section.
- Log in with your credentials to access the application form.
- Fill out the form with your personal details, academic background, and other required information.
- Upload the necessary documents:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Caste or PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Passport (for international students)
- M.Des applicants must also upload details of work experience
- Pay the application fee through the online portal.
- Download and print the confirmation slip for future reference.
Applicants are advised to double-check all information before final submission to avoid rejection.
The NID DAT is not just another exam—it’s the gateway to a career in design, innovation, and creativity. With more than 20,000 aspirants applying every year and only a few hundred seats available, competition is fierce. Applying early ensures peace of mind and allows you to focus fully on preparing for the exam rather than worrying about form errors or missed deadlines.
For thousands of design aspirants across India, the NID DAT is more than just an entrance test—it’s a life-changing opportunity. Whether you dream of designing products that impact lives, creating visual communication strategies, or innovating in digital experiences, studying at NID can be the stepping stone to a rewarding career.
The deadline of December 1, 2025 is closer than it seems. Start your registration now, gather your documents, and prepare with full focus for the DAT Prelims on December 21, 2025.
If you’ve always envisioned yourself at the forefront of design and innovation, NID is the platform where your ideas can truly take shape.
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