TheNational Institutes of Design (NID)will hold its importantDesign Aptitude Test (DAT) 2026 Prelimsexam tomorrow,December 21. This test is the first step for students who want to joinBachelor of Design (BDes)andMaster of Design (MDes)courses at NID. The exam will be held offline at various centers across India. NID has released important rules and instructions for all students taking the test. Only students who pass this Prelims exam will be able to appear for theDAT Mains, which is the next stage of the admission process.
Check Your Reporting Time for NID DAT 2026 Prelims
Students must reach their exam center exactly at the time printed on theirNID DAT 2026 admit card. It is very important to check this time carefully. Entry to the exam venue will only be allowed during this specific reporting window. Once the gates are closed, no student will be permitted to enter the center to take the exam.
Before entering the examination hall, all students will go through document verification and frisking. This process is to confirm your identity and ensure no prohibited items are carried inside, ensuring fairness for everyone.
What to Carry to the NID DAT Exam Center
Students must bring specific items to the exam center. Make sure these are ready today:
- A clear, printed copy of yourNID DAT 2026 admit card. This is essential for entry.
- One original and valid photo identity proof. This can be any of the following:
- YourAadhaar card
- YourPassport
- YourVoter ID
- YourDriving licence
- YourPAN card
The photo ID must be the original card. Copies, photos on your mobile phone, or scanned versions will not be accepted. Ensure your ID is valid and current.
Students must also bring their own stationery. No stationery will be provided or shared. You need to carry:
- Pencils
- Erasers
- Sharpeners
Answer sheets and drawing sheets will be provided to you inside the examination hall by the invigilators.
Items Not Allowed Inside the NID DAT Exam Center
Certain items are strictly prohibited inside the NID DAT exam center. Do not bring these:
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or any other electronic devices.
- Bags, purses, wallets, books, notes, or any loose papers (other than admit card and ID).
- Any food items. However, if a student has a medical reason and a doctor's note, specific food items might be allowed after verification.
There will be no facility at the exam center to store personal belongings. It is best to leave such items at home to avoid any problems on exam day.
Important Rules During the NID DAT 2026 Exam
While taking the exam, students must follow all instructions given by the exam invigilators. To maintain fairness:
- Do not talk or communicate with any other student in the exam hall.
- Do not share any stationery items with fellow candidates.
Any violation of these exam rules will be taken seriously and may lead to the cancellation of your candidature. This means you could be disqualified from the NID DAT 2026 admission process.
TheNID DAT 2026 Prelimsis a crucial qualifying exam. Only candidates who successfully clear this stage will move on to theDAT Mains. For any last-minute important updates, students should regularly check the official NID admissions website.
