Candidates shortlisted from the Prelims are invited to the DAT Mains, which decides final admission. Dates and venues will be announced by NID.

UG Mains (Integrated M.Des / B.Des)

• Studio Sensitivity Test: A hands-on studio test of design sensitivity.

• In-Person Sensitivity Test: An in-person assessment conducted by NID.

• Candidates must appear in both parts.

• 2.5 times the seats in each category are shortlisted.

M.Des Mains

• Studio Test: Conducted group-wise (discipline-wise for Group X).

• Interview: Separate interviews for each discipline.

• 4.5 times the seats per category per discipline are shortlisted.

• Candidates for NID Madhya Pradesh or NID Haryana disciplines take a separate Mains there.

Additional Mains for Vacant Seats

If seats remain vacant, the independent NIDs may conduct additional DAT Mains for their own campuses, as per the handbook.

Key Takeaways

• UG Mains = Studio Sensitivity Test + In-Person Sensitivity Test.

• M.Des Mains = Studio Test + discipline-wise Interview.

• Mains scores decide the final merit.

Pro Tip: Practise explaining your thought process aloud. Both the in-person test and the interview reward clear, honest reflection on how you approach design problems.

Source: NID Admissions Handbooks 2027-28, Sections 8.4 and 9.3

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the In-Person Sensitivity Test at NID?

It is the second part of the UG DAT Mains, conducted in person by NID along with the Studio Sensitivity Test.

Is there an interview for NID M.Des?

Yes. M.Des Mains includes a Studio Test and a discipline-wise Interview.

When is NID DAT Mains 2027?

NID will announce the Mains dates later.