NIFT 2026 Eligibility, Syllabus & Preparation Strategy
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Test
NIFT Eligibility Criteria 2026
To apply for NIFT 2026, candidates must meet specific age and academic qualification requirements set by the institute.
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Test
NIFT Eligibility
The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for each program.
Program | Age Limit | Educational Qualification | Subject Requirement |
B.Des | Max 24 years (as of Aug 1, 2026) | Passed 10+2 from a recognised board | Any stream |
B.F.Tech | Max 24 years (as of Aug 1, 2026) | Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Maths PCM compulsory | PCM compulsory |
M.Des | No age limit | UG Degree of a recognised university | No specific subject required |
M.F.M | No age limit | UG Degree of a recognised university | No specific subject required |
M.F.Tech | No age limit | B.F.Tech or B.E./B.Tech of a recognised institution | Engineering or tech background |
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Test
NIFT Syllabus
The NIFT 2026 syllabus varies based on the program B.Des, M.Des, B.F.Tech, M.F.Tech, and MFM and includes components like the General Ability Test (GAT), Creative Ability Test (CAT), Situation Test, and GD/PI for postgraduate courses. The table below outlines the key syllabus components for each exam section.
Test Section | Key Topics Covered |
GAT (General Ability Test) | |
Quantitative Ability | Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Fractions, Percentages, Ratios |
Communication Ability | Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, Phrases, Spelling Correction, One-word Substitutes |
English Comprehension | Reading Passages, Vocabulary Usage, Interpretation |
Analytical & Logical Ability | Series, Patterns, Problem Solving, Inferences |
GK & Current Affairs | Fashion Industry, Awards, Designers, Culture, Government Schemes, Sports, etc. |
CAT (Creative Ability Test) | |
Design Thinking | Innovation, Visualisation, Concept Development, Mood & Theme Interpretation |
Drawing Skills | Sketching, Proportion, Perspective, Memory Drawing, 3D Visualisation |
Color & Composition | Colour Theory, Presentation Techniques, Form & Structure |
Creativity | Storyboarding, Product Design, Poster & Logo Making, Imagination |
Situation Test (B.Des) | 3D model creation using materials provided, based on concept & theme |
Evaluation Areas | Creativity, Material Handling, Space Visualisation, Composition, Write-up |
GD & PI (PG Courses) | General Awareness, Communication, Confidence, Problem-Solving, Career Goals |
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Test
Preparation Guide for NIFT 2026
To perform well in NIFT 2026, candidates need more than just subject knowledge. The exam demands a balance of creativity, speed, accuracy, and awareness. Below are key tips to help structure an effective study plan.
- Balance All Sections: Prepare equally for CAT, GAT, and the Situation Test by focusing on relevant skills like creativity, analytical thinking, and 3D visualisation.
- Work on Observation & Speed: Daily sketching, timed tasks, and observational exercises help improve speed and attention to detail—especially useful for CAT and the Situation Test.
- Time Management: Practice with mock tests and previous year papers. Learn to prioritise questions based on difficulty and time constraints.
- Strengthen Basics: Brush up on math (arithmetic & algebra) and English (grammar, comprehension, vocabulary) to confidently handle the GAT section.
- Stay Updated: Read up on fashion trends, current affairs, design innovations, and cultural topics to perform well in GK and interview/GD rounds.
- Practice Creativity Daily: Engage in sketching logos, posters, product concepts, and imaginative scenes to develop originality and visual communication.
- Prepare for 3D Modelling: For the Situation Test, practice model making with materials like paper, straws, cloth, etc., and focus on clear concept explanation.
National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Test
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