The National Institute of Design (NID) Entrance Exam is a national-level design aptitude test conducted annually for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate design programs at NID campuses across India. The exam is organized by the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, and is considered one of the most prestigious design entrance exams in the country.
The NID entrance exam is held in two stages — Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Prelims and DAT Mains. The DAT Prelims evaluates a candidate’s aptitude in design through objective and subjective questions focusing on creativity, visualization, drawing skills, logical reasoning, and general awareness. Candidates shortlisted from the prelims are invited to appear for the DAT Mains, which includes a studio test and personal interview to assess practical and conceptual design abilities.
The exam opens pathways to programs such as Bachelor of Design (B.Des), Master of Design (M.Des), and Ph.D. in Design. Applicants from any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts) can apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
NID graduates are highly sought after in fields like product design, animation, fashion, communication, and industrial design. The exam not only tests artistic skills but also imagination, innovation, and problem-solving abilities.