Updated on Jul 09, 2025
Sanhita Kundu
NIFT Syllabus 2025 is divided into three sections: General Ability Test (GAT), Creative Ability Test (CAT), and Situation Test. The GAT covers topics like quantitative ability, analytical reasoning, communication skills, and English comprehension. It is an online exam and is mandatory for all courses. The CAT exam tests creativity and design skills. It is required for candidates applying to B.Des and M.Des programs. For PG courses, the selection process through NIFT 2025 also includes a Group Discussion (GD) based on case studies, followed by a Personal Interview (PI) lasting about 15 to 20 minutes.
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Overview
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus: GAT Syllabus
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus: CAT Syllabus
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Situation Test Syllabus
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Group Discussion
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Personal Interview
- NIFT 2025 Exam Pattern
- Preparing for NIFT 2025
- Top Books to Prepare for NIFT 2025
- NIFT 2025 Syllabus FAQs
NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Overview
NIFT 2025 consisted of two stages. Stage 1 included the GAT and CAT, and stage 2 included the situation test and GD/PI round. Here is an overview of the syllabus of NIFT 2025:
NIFT 2025 Syllabus: GAT Syllabus
The GAT syllabus for NIFT varies depending on the course candidates have applied for. It covers language, analytical, quantitative, and current affairs questions across 4 to 5 sections with case studies related to real-life industry-based scenarios.
B.Des. and M.Des.
The GAT syllabus for B.Des. and M.Des. programs tests students in four areas: communication ability and English comprehension, quantitative ability, analytical and logical ability, general knowledge, and current affairs. Here are the topics covered in each section:
MFM, B.F.Tech., and M.F.Tech.
- The NIFT syllabus for the MFM, B.F.Tech. and M.F.Tech. Courses have the same four sections as mentioned above, with a case study.
- The case study presents a unique industry-based situation, which the candidates need to analyse and answer questions about.
- For MFM and M.F.Tech candidates, the GAT paper also covers questions from the engineering field.
NIFT 2025 Syllabus: CAT Syllabus
The CAT paper is an offline drawing test, designed to judge a candidate’s design aptitude, creative potential, and ability to think innovatively. The test also assesses the candidate’s ability to use color, illustrate, and develop concepts. Here is a breakdown of what candidates are expected to know in each section of CAT:
NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Situation Test Syllabus
The situation test, exclusive to B.Des. candidates, was a hands-on model-making test where individuals were judged on how well the model was conceptualised and created using the given materials. Here are the important details of the situation test:
NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Group Discussion
Applicants to NIFT’s master's programs who qualify for the written test undergo an in-person group discussion and personal interview. The group discussion round is a short discussion of 15 to 20 minutes duration where candidates are evaluated on the following parameters:
- Conceptual clarity
- Understanding of the assigned topic
- Contribution to the topic
- Interpersonal skills
- Ability to generate new ideas
- Problem-solving ability
- Leadership qualities
- Effective communication
NIFT 2025 Syllabus: Personal Interview
Personal interviews in NIFT are conducted with department heads to judge an individual’s communication skills and suitability for the course, among other parameters. The PI will also judge the candidates on the following criteria:
- Career orientation
- Suitability for the course
- Academic and Co-curricular activity achievements,
- Communication skills, general awareness, aptitude, and creative and lateral thinking.
NIFT 2025 Exam Pattern
The GAT paper consisted of 100 to 150 questions, which were to be completed over 2 to 3 hours. Qualifying students then attempted the 3-hour-long CAT, which had 3 questions. Here is a summary of the NIFT 2025 Exam Pattern:
Preparing for NIFT 2025
NIFT 2025 requires candidates to prepare for their general abilities, basics of drawing, and hands-on model-making skills. Here are some tips to prepare for NIFT 2025, including the GD/PI rounds:
- Download the latest NIFT 2025 syllabus and examination pattern.
- Practice past papers and mock tests for the GAT.
- Revise design and drawing principles and skills.
- Seek advice and feedback from seniors or mentors.
- Read the latest news and current affairs for the GD round.
- Take breaks to avoid getting burned out.
Top Books to Prepare for NIFT 2025
To prepare efficiently for NIFT 2025, the right books are essential. Arihant Publishers offers dedicated books covering all NIFT sections, including mock test material. It is recommended that candidates focus on a few key books and master the fundamentals rather than buying several books to prevent confusion. Here are a few suggested books for NIFT 2025:
NIFT 2025 Syllabus FAQs
What is the syllabus for NIFT 2025?
The NIFT syllabus includes GAT covering quantitative analytics, analytical ability, communication ability and English comprehension, and GK. The CAT evaluates observation, creativity and design knowledge. There is also a situation test where candidates make 3D models and the GD/PI round for PG students.
Is the NIFT 2025 syllabus for B.F.Tech. different than B.Des.?
Yes. The B.F.Tech. GAT paper includes a case study and has five sections, while the B.Des. paper covers four sections (communication, quantitative, analytical, general knowledge) without a case study.
What are the subjects covered in NIFT 2025’s CAT paper?
The CAT test is a subjective test designed to judge the candidate’s drawing and design skills. Candidates are also judged on their creative ability, power of observation, intuitive abilities, concept development ability, and design prowess etc.
What is the syllabus of the GAT paper in NIFT 2025?
The GAT paper has four sections on Communication Ability and English Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Analytical and Logical Ability, and General Knowledge and Current Affairs. For PG courses and B.F.Tech., the paper also includes a case study.
Is there a syllabus for the NIFT 2025 situation test?
The situation test is a practical, subjective, hands-on test. Candidates make a model and explain its concept with the given materials. They are judged on their ability to use the materials creatively, create a design concept from scratch, and visual presentation skills.
How important is the current affairs section in the GAT paper of NIFT 2025?
Current affairs are a key part of the GAT paper. Questions in this section covers current news and trends, major events, recent industry awards and news, and national and international news.
Does NIFT release an official syllabus every year?
NIFT releases a detailed separate syllabus every year. The test syllabus is published in the admissions brochure available on the official website. Any changes in the test pattern and syllabus are also stated.
Is there any change in the NIFT 2025 test syllabus?
There have been minor changes made to the GAT test pattern. Particularly, the distribution of questions has altered, and the B.F.Tech. GAT paper has been divided into two sections.
How can candidates prepare for the CAT paper of NIFT 2025?
For the CAT, candidates must work on their design ability, power of observation and skills in developing a concept. They can enhance their creative skills with repeated practice and noting their mistakes. Clearing up the basics of shapes, shading, lines, human figures, and composition will be helpful.
Do UG candidates of NIFT 2025 have to sit for the GD/PI round?
No. The group discussion and personal interview round is for master’s course applicants. This round is held in person at a NIFT campus for candidates who have cleared the GAT and CAT stages.
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