Frequently Asked Questions

Such applicants must fulfil program specific academic eligibility similar to Indian candidates. Additionally, they must possess: (i) Valid Passport, (ii) Proof of foreign residency, (iii) Equivalence certificate from AIU (if qualifying exam passed outside India), and (iv) Valid SAT/GMAT/GRE score obtained after 1st Jan 2024. Candidates may have taken the test multiple times; the highest score submitted will be considered, if received by NIFT on or before 30 April 2026. They must have working knowledge of English. They do not appear for GAT/CAT; their admission is based on international test scores + NIFT evaluation.

Candidates must meet one of the following criteria: Option 1: Master’s degree in Design/Management/Technology (7 years post-Class 10 education) with minimum CGPA 6.0 (5.5 for SC/ST) or 55% (50% for SC/ST). No experience required. Option 2: Master’s

degree in disciplines not directly aligned with Design/Management/ Technology: same marks criteria but 10 years of work experience in proposed research area is mandatory. Option 3: Bachelor’s degree in Design/Management/Technology (5 years post-Class 10) with CGPA 8.0 (7.5 for SC/ST) or 75% (70% for SC/ST) + 10 years of professional experience in the proposed research area. Candidates in final year may apply conditionally with undertaking.

UG Program (B.Des. and B.F.Tech.): Maximum age limit is less than 24 years as on 1 August 2026 (admission year). SC/ST/PwD candidates receive a 05 years relaxation. PG Program (M.Des, M.F.M., M.F.Tech.): No age limit. Ph.D.: No age limit.

Stage 1: (i) GAT – General Ability Test (Computer Based Test): evaluates quantitative ability, communication, analytical ability, English comprehension, GK & current affairs. (ii) CAT – Creative Ability Test (Pen & Paper): evaluates design aptitude, creativity, visualization, drawing, and innovative thinking. Stage 2: Situation Test, conducted by NIFT, where candidates build 3D models using given materials and write an explanation of the concept. Final merit is based on GAT + CAT + Situation Test with assigned weightages.

Admission to B.F.Tech. is based only on the GAT (Computer-Based Test). There is no CAT, no Situation Test, and no Interview. GAT assesses Quantitative Ability, Analytical Ability, Logical Reasoning, English Comprehension, and General Knowledge. Final merit list is 100% based on GAT score.

M.Des: Stage 1 includes GAT (CBT) + CAT (PBT). Shortlisted candidates appear for Stage 2: Personal Interview, conducted by NIFT panel. M.F.M & M.F.Tech.: Only GAT (CBT) followed by PI.

The selection process for Artisans involves 03 components conducted by NIFT: (i) Written Test assessing basic design awareness and reasoning, (ii) Practical Assessment evaluating craftsmanship, material handling, and technical skills, and (iii) Personal Interaction/Interview assessing motivation, experience, and domain knowledge.

NRI/Foreign/OCI/PIO/SAARC applicants are exempt from appearing in GAT/CAT. Their selection is based on SAT (for UG) and GMAT/GRE (for PG) scores.

Ph.D. Examination is conducted by NIFT and consists of 02 stages: (i) Written Test, assessing research aptitude, subject knowledge, and analytical ability; (ii) Research Proposal Presentation and Personal  Interview (RPPI), where shortlisted candidates present their proposal and discuss their research interests with a panel.

Yes. All papers are bilingual (Hindi and English). In case of any discrepancy between Hindi and English versions, the English version shall be treated as final.