The National Institute of Design (NID) has officially opened the registration process for the Design Aptitude Test (DAT) 2026. Candidates interested in pursuing undergraduate (BDes) and postgraduate (MDes) design courses across NID campuses in India can now submit their applications online.
Application Timeline and Last Date
- Registration Open: September 12, 2025
- Last Date to Apply: December 1, 2025 (11:59 PM)
Candidates must complete the application process before the deadline to be eligible for the DAT 2026 prelims.
Steps to Apply for NID DAT 2026
- Visit the official NID admissions website: admissions.nid.edu.
- Create a new account to obtain login credentials (for first-time users).
- Complete the application form with personal and academic details.
- Scan and upload the required documents, including a photograph, a signature, and certificates.
- Pay the application fee through online payment methods.
- Review the details carefully and submit the form.
- Download and print the confirmation for future reference.
DAT 2026 Exam Structure
The NID DAT is conducted in two stages:
- Prelims: A written test assessing creative skills, visualization ability, and problem-solving aptitude.
- Mains: Shortlisted candidates from the prelims appear for studio tests and personal interviews.
DAT Prelims 2026 Date
According to the official schedule, the DAT Prelims 2026 will be held on December 21, 2025. Candidates qualifying the prelims will advance to the mains stage. This year, NID continues to attract aspirants from across the country due to its reputation for innovative design education and comprehensive curriculum. Early registration is recommended to avoid last-minute delays and ensure participation in the competitive entrance exam.
