NID DAT Syllabus 2026: Prelims & Mains Syllabus, Preparation Tips

NID DAT Syllabus 2026 comprises basic design concepts, hands-on experience with practical assignments, creative works, sketches, group discussions, and more. The National Institute of Design has not released any official syllabus for the NID DAT 2026 Exam. Thus, applicants must check the essential questions and weightage carried by each topic for exam preparation. The previous year's papers and mock tests help candidates learn the essential topics and weightage of each paper.

The syllabus for the NID 2026 is determined and prescribed by the conducting authority and is made available on the official website, admissions.nid.edu. Before attempting the exam, candidates should be familiar with the NID entrance exam syllabus and the exam pattern. By understanding the syllabus and paper pattern, candidates gain a clear idea of all the topics included in the exam. Read further to know more about the NID DAT 2026 syllabus.

NID DAT 2026 Exam Overview

The NID Design Aptitude Test (NID DAT) 2026 is an entrance exam conducted by the National Institute of Design. The exam is conducted for candidates who wish to get admission at NID in B.Des or M.Des program. Along with the syllabus, candidates can check out the below table for NID DAT 2026 Exam Overview.

Check: NID DAT Exam Pattern 2026

NID DAT B.Des Prelims Exam Syllabus 2026 

The NID syllabus 2026 for the entrance exam of the B.Des program comprises the basic concepts of design, based on which subjective and objective-type questions are expected. NID syllabus Prelims 2026 for B.Des is divided into four sections, including innovation in design, theme development, exercises on imagination, and graphics and pictograms. Candidates must go through the syllabus in detail, as shared below:

Read More: NID DAT Application Process 2026

NID DAT B.Des Mains Syllabus 2026 for Studio Test

Applicants who qualify for the NID prelims exam are eligible to participate in the NID DAT Mains exam. Candidates can refer to the detailed NID syllabus 2026 for the Mains B.Des program shared below.

The NID B Des entrance exam syllabus is divided into four parts: model making, material manipulation, interview questions, and mock interviews. The details for the same are as follows.

• Model Making: Audio-visual exercises, Past studio tests & interview questions
• Material Manipulation: Evolving ideas, Interview tips
• Interview Questions: Importance of body language, Creative thinking
• Mock Interview: Doodling, Guidance on portfolio making

As for the studio test, the NID exam syllabus for the B.Des program includes questions related to hands-on practice and creative topics. The studio test NID DAT Syllabus 2026 for B.Des is given below for the candidates' reference:

NID DAT M.Des Prelims Exam Syllabus 2026

NID DAT prelims syllabus for the M.Des program comprises three major sections: design outlines for beginners, colour terminology, inspiration, and design development. Candidates can note the detailed NID syllabus 2026 for the M.Des program shared below:

Read: NID DAT Cutoff 2026

NID DAT Mains Syllabus 2026 for M.Des Studio Test

As for the studio test, the NID M.Des entrance exam syllabus includes questions related to hands-on practice and creative topics. The studio test NID DAT Syllabus 2026 for M.Des is given below for the candidates' reference:

NID DAT Syllabus 2026 for PhD in Design

Candidates interested in pursuing the PhD program from NID must submit a proposal based on the practice of designs and their significance. Candidates must prepare a research proposal, and it must be presented in the format below.

• The vast area of study, the common background, the context, or the literature review of the research.
• The problem and scope.
• The rationale for and its significance.
• The objectives and research questions of the study.
• The methodology/approach to be followed.
• The student's knowledge, skills, and work or research experience are relevant to the subject and NID GK syllabus.
• How do the research objectives and practice relate to practice in practice-based research?
• The list of Bibliography and references.

NID DAT 2026 Preparation Tips

The NID Design Aptitude Test, or NID DAT, is a national-level entrance examination for students who wish to join the Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Design (M.Des) courses at the National Institute of Design, NID. This test assesses the candidate's creativity, visual perception, observational skills, and problem-solving abilities. The test is divided into two phases: Prelims and Mains. Prelims include objective as well as subjective questions, while Mains consists of studio tests and interviews. For a good score, a candidate should be aware of design principles and regularly practice them. A few preparation strategies are given below to help you score well in the NID DAT 2026 exam.

1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus- Go through the syllabus and exam pattern carefully. Pay more attention to areas like visualisation, creativity, and general awareness.
2. Develop Observation and Visualisation Skills- Encourage the practice of careful observation. Try to visualise objects, situations, and ideas imaginatively.
3. Focus on Creativity and Problem Solving- Use innovative thinking for solving design-related problems. Work towards producing unique and novel concepts.
4. Practice on Previous Examination Papers and Mock Exams- Consult previous NID DAT Question Papers to become familiar with the question formats. Take mock exams to improve speed as well as accuracy.
5. Research into Design Literature and Productions- Remain up-to-date with developments in design through reading books, magazines, and other online resources on art and design.
6. Improve Time Management- Manage your time effectively for the examination. Allocate specific time slots for each section during practice time.
7. Expand General Knowledge and Awareness of Current Affairs- Learn more about general knowledge and current issues, especially on matters related to art, culture, and design.
8. Diversify Media and Methods- Experiment using a variety of art media: pencil, watercolour, or pastel, among others, to further hone your art-making skills.
9. Stay Consistent and Confident- Consistent practice and belief in your craft lead to victory. Stay driven and continue sharpening your art skills.

NID DAT Syllabus 2026 FAQs