The National Institute of Design (NID) will conduct the Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Prelims 2026 on Sunday, December 21, 2025. The entrance test is a crucial qualifying stage for admission to Bachelor of Design (BDes) and Master of Design (MDes) programmes offered by NID campuses across India. With the exam scheduled in two days, candidates appearing for NID DAT Prelims 2026 are advised to go through the official admission handbook carefully and follow all exam-day instructions to avoid last-minute issues at the test centre.
Importance of NID DAT Prelims 2026
The DAT Prelims evaluates candidates on creativity, visual perception, design thinking, and problem-solving skills. Only those who qualify this stage will be shortlisted for DAT Mains, making it a decisive step in the NID admission process for the academic session 2026–27.
Last-Minute Preparation Tips for Candidates
As the exam approaches, aspirants should focus on revising core concepts rather than attempting new topics. Key areas include:
- Visualisation and observation skills
- Basic design principles and creativity
- Logical and analytical thinking
Practising official sample papers released by NID can help candidates understand the exam pattern and time management requirements.
Admit Card and Stationery Guidelines
Candidates must ensure that the details printed on the NID DAT 2026 Admit Card—including name, exam centre, and reporting time—are accurate. A printed copy of the admit card is mandatory, as digital copies will not be accepted. For the drawing and sketching sections, candidates should carry their own pencils, erasers, and sharpeners, as sharing of stationery is not permitted inside the exam hall.
Do’s for NID DAT 2026 Exam Day
- Reach the exam centre well before the reporting time
- Carry a printed admit card and a valid original photo ID
- Follow instructions given by invigilators strictly
- Use only permitted stationery items
Don’ts Candidates Must Avoid
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or any electronic devices
- Bags, books, notes, or loose papers
- Food items unless medically required and approved
- Late entry after the reporting window closes
