SYLLABUS:

Admissions to all the programmes at NID is based on the candidates’ performance in the two-stages of Design Aptitude Test viz. DAT Prelims & DAT Mains. The objective of these exams is to assess the knowledge, skills and behavioural abilities of the candidates.

Stage 1: Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Prelims 

The B.Des. DAT prelims paper will consist of an examination, the duration of which will be announced in the admit card. This is a paper-and-pencil/pen test, conducted at the same time on the same day across all test centers.

The questions asked may involve text and visuals.

Questions from following topics can be expected in the DAT Prelims Examination

  • General Knowledge
  • Arithmetic Aptitude
  • Verbal Reasoning 
  • Logical Reasoning

As a part of testing the Drawing and Creativity, questions from following topics may expected

  • Composition
  • Sequence Drawing
  • Animation
  • Product Design skills
  • Environment sensitivity
  • Visual Design
  • Thematic color arrangement
  • Proportions and Perspective
  • Abstract Symbolism
  • Memory Drawing
  • Poster Design
  • Logo/ Stamp Design

The question paper will be in English language ONLY.

Based on the DAT Prelims scores, separate merit lists shall be prepared for each category (GENERAL, GENERAL-EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST & PwD) as applied for by the candidate. Only shortlisted candidates will be eligible to appear for the DAT Mains exam as per the schedule announced.
Separate merit list will be prepared for Overseas candidates.

Depending on the prevailing pandemic situation of COVID-19, the schedules as well as the nature/structure of the exams can change, and all tests can be conducted entirely online or entirely offline or in a combination of both modes at the discretion of the Institute.

Stage 2: Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Mains
Candidates shortlisted after the DAT Prelims will be invited to appear for the Stage 2 DAT Mains. 

In last year due to Covid situation the mode of DAT Mains was online and the phase consist of following tests

  • Theme Poster
  • Portfolio
  • Online Interview

In usual times the DAT Mains consist of following topics. 

  • 3D Modeling
  • Material Manipulation
  • Observation Test
  • Creative Thinking
  • Audio-visual experience
  • Body Language
  • Portfolio making
  • Group Discussion