NID DAT Mains (Studio Test & Interview)

Candidates who clear the DAT Prelims are invited for the DAT Mains, which is a practical, hands-on evaluation followed by a personal interview (for B.Des) or sometimes includes a portfolio review and interview (for M.Des).

Studio Test (for B.Des & M.Des)

This is a critical practical examination designed to assess your creative problem-solving skills, material handling abilities, and ability to translate ideas into tangible forms. It typically lasts for around 3 hours.

NID DAT Mains: Studio Test

Candidates who clear the DAT Prelims are invited for the DAT Mains, which is a practical, hands-on evaluation followed by a personal interview (for B.Des) or sometimes includes a portfolio review and interview (for M.Des).

Weightage: The Studio Test is a significant component of the DAT Mains, often carrying a substantial weightage (e.g., 60-70% for B.Des Mains, and a significant portion for M.Des Mains)

Construction of functional and aesthetic 3D models. Evaluation considers stability, neatness, creative use of materials, and concept.

Model Making

Sketching Test

Material Manipulation

Skillfull and imaginative use of provided materials (e.g., paper, clay, wire, thread, foam, fabric, natural objects like leaves/twigs, etc.) to create 2D or 3D models.

Ability to interpret visual prompts, observe details from objects/scenes, and visualize forms in 3D.

Observation & Visualization

Expressing ideas, concepts, and observations through drawing, focusing on perspective, proportion, and line quality.

Creative Thinking & Problem Solving

Your ability to respond innovatively to given design challenges, often with limited resources.

Doodling/Storyboarding

Creating visual narratives, expressing emotions, or completing a story through illustrations.

Audio-Visual Test

Interpreting and responding to audio clips or visual sequences through sketches, descriptions, or short write-ups. This tests sensory perception and interpretation.

Thematic Apperception

Responding to specific themes or scenarios with design solutions.

NID DAT Mains: Personal Interview (PI) & Portfolio Review

Candidates who clear the DAT Prelims are invited for the DAT Mains, which is a practical, hands-on evaluation followed by a personal interview (for B.Des) or sometimes includes a portfolio review and interview (for M.Des).

Weightage: The Interview (and Portfolio Review if applicable) contributes to the final selection, often around 30-40% of the DAT Mains score.

Awareness of current affairs, social issues, and how design can address them.

General Awareness

Extracurricular Activities & Hobbies

Design Knowledge & Awareness

Your understanding of design principles, history, contemporary trends, and various design disciplines.

Your genuine interest in design, reasons for choosing NID, and future aspirations.

Motivation & Passion

Demonstrating a well-rounded personality and transferable skills.

Communication Skills

Clarity of thought, ability to articulate ideas effectively, and confidence.

Portfolio (for M.Des, or sometimes B.Des)

A collection of your best creative works (sketches, paintings, design projects, photographs, models, digital art). The portfolio demonstrates your design potential, skill range, and conceptual abilities. It's crucial to be able to explain each piece effectively.