The NID DAT 2026 Prelims examination will be conducted on December 21, 2025, by the National Institute of Design. The entrance test is held for admission to Bachelor of Design and Master of Design programmes offered by NID campuses across India. Candidates qualifying the preliminary stage will be shortlisted for the DAT Mains examination. The test will be conducted in offline mode, and candidates are required to strictly follow instructions mentioned on the admit card and official admission handbook.
NID DAT 2026 Reporting Time and Entry Guidelines
Candidates appearing for the NID DAT Exam Date 2026 must report to their allotted examination centre as per the reporting time printed on the admit card. Entry to the exam venue will be permitted only during the specified reporting window. Once the entry gates are closed, no candidate will be allowed inside the centre under any circumstances. Prior to entry into the examination hall, candidates will undergo document verification and security frisking as part of standard examination protocols.
Documents and Items to Carry at NID DAT Exam Centre
Before arriving at the examination centre, candidates must ensure they carry all mandatory documents and materials. The following items are required at the NID DAT 2026 Exam Centre:
- Printed copy of the NID DAT 2026 admit card
- One original and valid photo identity proof
Accepted photo identity proofs include Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, driving licence, or PAN card. Only original documents will be accepted. Photocopies, scanned copies, or digital IDs stored on mobile phones will not be considered valid. Candidates are also required to carry their own stationery, including pencils, erasers, and sharpeners. Answer sheets and drawing sheets will be provided at the examination centre.
Items Prohibited Inside NID DAT Exam Centre
Certain items are strictly prohibited inside the examination venue to maintain exam integrity. Candidates must not carry:
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or any electronic devices
- Bags, purses, wallets, books, notes, or loose papers
- Food items, unless medically required
No storage facility will be available at the exam centre for personal belongings, and candidates are advised to make necessary arrangements in advance.
Instructions to Follow During NID DAT 2026 Examination
During the NID DAT 2026 examination, candidates must adhere to all instructions issued by invigilators. Communication with other candidates, sharing of stationery, or any form of misconduct is strictly prohibited. Any violation of examination rules may lead to immediate cancellation of candidature. Candidates are advised to remain attentive throughout the examination and follow instructions carefully. The NID DAT Prelims serves as the first stage of the selection process, and performance in this exam determines eligibility for the DAT Mains stage.
