NID DAT 2026 Prelims Exam on Dec 21: Pattern & Selection

The **National Institute of Design (NID)** will hold its **Design Aptitude Test (DAT) 2026 Prelims exam** on **December 21**. This important exam is for students who want to join NID's Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Design (M.Des) courses. The test will happen offline at different centers. All registered candidates must appear for this exam.

The NID DAT is a two-stage exam. First is the **DAT Prelims**, and then the **DAT Mains**. The December 21 test is the first stage. Candidates need to understand the exam pattern and how marks are given to prepare well.

Understanding NID DAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The NID DAT exam is split into two main parts: **DAT Prelims** and **DAT Mains**. The **DAT Prelims** test is held offline. It acts as a filter to select students for the next stage, the **DAT Mains**.

For B.Des Candidates:

The **DAT Prelims** for Bachelor of Design students has two types of questions:

• Objective-type questions (like multiple choice).
• Subjective and drawing-based questions.

This part of the exam checks how well you can:

• Understand visuals (Visual perception).
• Create new ideas (Creativity).
• Show your design skills (Design aptitude).
• Notice small details (Observation skills).
• Solve problems using logic (Logical reasoning).

For M.Des Candidates:

The **DAT Prelims** for Master of Design students includes:

• Questions about design aptitude.
• Tasks that require you to analyze situations and solve problems.

The scores from the **DAT Prelims** are used to make a shortlist. Only shortlisted candidates can move to the **DAT Mains**.

NID DAT 2026 Selection Process and Weightage

The **NID DAT Prelims** exam helps NID choose who can go to the next stage. It does not decide your final admission. Your final admission depends on your performance in the **DAT Mains**.

For B.Des Admissions:

The final list of selected students is mainly based on how well they do in **DAT Mains**. The Prelims exam is only a qualifying test. You must pass it to be considered for Mains.

For M.Des Admissions:

For M.Des, the **DAT Mains** includes studio tests and interviews. These play a very important role in your final selection. The exact weightage (how much each part counts) might be different for various design subjects. This information is available in the official **NID DAT handbook 2026**.

Important Points for All Candidates

Here are some key things all NID DAT 2026 candidates should remember:

• The **NID DAT 2026 exam on December 21** is compulsory. You must take it if you have registered.
• Your score in the Prelims exam will decide if you are eligible for the **DAT Mains**.
• Make sure you prepare for both the drawing and aptitude sections according to the official exam pattern.
• The official NID handbook gives full details about how much each section or stage counts for different courses. Please check it carefully.

What Happens After NID DAT Prelims 2026?

After the **December 21 exam**, NID will announce the **DAT Prelims results**. Candidates who pass the Prelims will receive an invitation to appear for the **DAT Mains** exam.

NID will then offer final admissions based on your combined performance in both the Prelims and Mains stages. Students should regularly check the official NID admissions website for updates on results, exam dates for Mains, and other important news.