The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Entrance Exam is a prestigious national-level entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of NIFT for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs in fashion technology, design, management, and related fields across 18 NIFT campuses in India. Established in 1986 under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, NIFT aims to foster creative and technical excellence in the fashion and apparel industry, producing professionals equipped to drive innovation in textiles, garment manufacturing, retail, and sustainable design. The exam serves as a gateway to programs like B.Des (Bachelor of Design), B.F.Tech (Bachelor of Fashion Technology), M.Des (Master of Design), M.F.M (Master of Fashion Management), and M.F.Tech (Master of Fashion Technology), with over 30,000 candidates appearing annually for approximately 5,000 seats.
Qualifying NIFT not only ensures access to world-class facilities like advanced labs, industry collaborations with brands such as Raymond, Aditya Birla, and Reliance, but also opens doors to high-paying careers in fashion houses, export firms, and consultancies, with average starting salaries of ₹4–8 LPA escalating to ₹15–25 LPA mid-career. The multi-stage selection process—comprising Computer-Based Test (CBT) for GAT (General Ability Test), Creative Ability Test (CAT), and Situation Test/GD/PI—evaluates analytical, creative, and managerial skills, aligning with the industry's demand for holistic professionals. NIFT alumni lead global brands and contribute to sustainable practices, making the qualification a benchmark for excellence in India's ₹10 lakh crore fashion sector.
For 2026, NTA has introduced reduced fees and streamlined online processes to enhance accessibility, with reservations ensuring inclusivity (SC:15%, ST:7.5%, OBC:27%, EWS:10%, PwD:5%). Beyond degrees, NIFT offers lateral entry for diploma holders and international recognition via tie-ups with FIT New York and London College of Fashion, enabling global mobility and research opportunities in emerging areas like AI-driven design and eco-textiles.
Candidates must be below 24 years as on 1st August 2026. 5-year relaxation is given to SC/ST/PwD candidates (up to 29 years). No age limit for PG programs (M.Des, M.F.M, M.F.Tech).
Yes, a single application form allows you to apply for both programs. You will appear for the common GAT; B.Des candidates also write CAT and Situation Test. Separate merit lists are prepared for B.Des and B.F.Tech.
No, mathematics is not required in Class 12 for B.Des. Any stream (Science/Commerce/Arts) is eligible. For B.F.Tech, Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are mandatory.
Approximately ₹12–14 lakh (tuition + hostel + one-time charges). Top campuses (Delhi, Mumbai) are slightly higher. Scholarships and fee waivers available for economically weaker students.
Around 40–45 seats for General category in B.Des Fashion Design. Total intake across all categories is about 120 per campus for FD. Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru have the highest demand.
90%+ rankers join reputed coaching (AFA, BRDS, Silica, Pahal). Self-study is possible but CAT and Situation Test need guided practice. Online courses and mock test series are highly recommended.
Yes, NRI/OCI/PIO candidates are exempted from the entrance exam. Admission is based on SAT scores for UG and GMAT/GRE for PG. Limited NRI quota seats are available.
CAT carries 50% weightage – the highest among all tests. GAT is 30% and Situation Test is 20%. Strong drawing and creativity skills are crucial for top ranks.
Usually 5–6 online rounds followed by 1–2 spot rounds. Seat acceptance fee is ₹1,00,000 (adjustable in tuition). Float option allows upgradation in higher rounds.
General category: Below 100 for Fashion Design, below 200 for Accessory Design. B.F.Tech Delhi closes around AIR 50–80. Ranks beyond 500 usually get newer campuses.
No negative marking in NIFT GAT or CAT. Every correct answer in GAT carries 1 mark. Candidates should attempt all questions.
Yes, lateral entry is available for 3-year diploma holders in fashion-related fields. Limited seats (5–10% of total intake). Separate merit list based on diploma marks and interview.
Common materials: chart paper, ivory sheets, clay, thread, pins, cotton, thermocol, etc. No outside material allowed; everything is provided at the centre. Candidates make a 3D model and write a concept note in 2 hours.
Freshers: ₹6–8 LPA (Delhi/Mumbai), ₹5–7 LPA (other campuses). Highest packages reach ₹20–30 LPA in brands like Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, Adidas. 100% placement for most programs in recent years.
No, hostel is optional but highly recommended for first-year students. Most campuses have excellent hostel facilities with AC/non-AC options. Mess food is included in hostel fee.
No, campus transfer is not allowed under normal circumstances. Only in extreme medical/family cases with proper documentation. Students must complete the full course at allotted campus.
B.Des focuses on creativity, design, illustration and fashion styling. B.F.Tech is technical – apparel production, quality control, manufacturing. B.F.Tech has higher starting salary in production/export houses.
Practice with everyday materials (newspaper, ice-cream sticks, cotton, foil). Develop 3D model-making speed and innovative thinking. Refer to BRDS/AFA Situation Test kits and previous year videos.
Yes, portfolio is mandatory during GD/PI for M.Des. Should showcase design projects, internships and creative work. Strong portfolio can compensate for average GAT score.
NIFT Delhi and Mumbai are considered the best for Fashion Communication. Excellent industry exposure, celebrity events and media tie-ups. Highest placements in advertising, PR and styling.
Yes, gap year candidates are fully eligible. No restriction on number of attempts or gap years. Many successful candidates clear NIFT after 1–2 years of preparation.
Usually goes up to 3000–5000 depending on vacancies. Newer campuses (Jodhpur, Panchkula, Bhopal) accept higher ranks. Spot round is offline/physical at respective campuses.
Yes, means-cum-merit scholarship up to 100% tuition waiver. Udaan scheme for SC/ST students and SARTHAK for PwD. State government scholarships also applicable.
Yes, compulsory 8–10 week internship in 6th/7th semester. Top brands like Sabyasachi, Manish Malhotra, Anita Dongre recruit interns. Stipend ranges from ₹10,000–30,000 per month.
Yes, NIFT has tie-ups with 40+ global institutes (FIT New York, London College of Fashion). Alumni work with Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci worldwide. Excellent for higher studies abroad in fashion.
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