The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) has opened its online application process for NIFT 2026. Aspiring design students can now submit applications, with a revised fee structure taking effect immediately. The application period runs from December 8, 2025 , to January 6, 2026 . All applications must be submitted through the official website, exams.nta.nic.in.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the NIFT entrance exams, announced significant adjustments to the application fees. The fee has been reduced for several categories. This change aims to make the entrance examination more accessible, potentially encouraging a wider pool of candidates to apply.
Revised Application Fees
The application fee now stands at Rs. 2000 for candidates falling under the Open, Other Backward Classes (Non-Creamy Layer – OBC NCL), and Open-Economically Weaker Section (Open-EWS) categories. This represents a reduction from previous years’ fees for these groups. Understanding this updated structure is crucial for financial planning during the application process.
For candidates from Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) categories, the application fee is now Rs. 500 . This fee structure ensures a lower financial barrier for these specific categories. All applicants must pay the correct fee based on their respective category during the online submission.
NIFT 2026 Application Schedule
Online registration and submission of application forms commenced on December 8, 2025 . The deadline for standard submissions is January 6, 2026 . Candidates must complete and submit their forms, along with the application fee, within this period to ensure their eligibility and to avoid additional charges.
A late fee window is available for those who miss the initial submission deadline. Applications can be submitted with an additional late fee of Rs. 5000 . This late fee is applied in addition to the standard category-wise application fee. The extended submission period runs from January 7, 2026 , to January 10, 2026 . Candidates are strongly advised to meet the primary deadline to save on additional costs.
Application Correction Window
Following the application submission period, the NTA will open a dedicated correction window. This allows candidates to rectify any errors or discrepancies in their submitted application forms. The online correction facility will be active from January 12, 2026 , to January 14, 2026 . Applicants should carefully review all entered information, including personal details, category, and educational qualifications, before the final submission. Utilizing this short window is essential for ensuring accurate records.
NIFT 2026 Examination Details
The NIFT 2026 entrance examination is scheduled for February 8, 2026 , which falls on a Sunday. The examination will be conducted in a hybrid mode. The General Ability Test (GAT) will be administered as a Computer Based Test (CBT), while the Creative Ability Test (CAT) will be a Paper Based Test (PBT). Candidates should prepare for both formats.
Specific details regarding the examination centre, precise date, and shift timings will be communicated solely through the admit cards. The NTA will notify candidates about the availability of the Advance City Intimation Slip and the Admit Card download link closer to the examination date. Regular monitoring of the NTA and NIFT official websites is critical for accessing these important documents and staying informed about examination logistics.
Key Dates Summary
The following table summarizes the important dates for NIFT 2026 applicants, as released by the National Testing Agency:
| Activity | Dates |
|---|---|
| Online registration and submission of Application Form | December 8, 2025 to January 6, 2026 |
| Submission of Application Form with late fee (₹5000/- additional) | January 7, 2026 to January 10, 2026 |
| Correction in Application Form (Online only) | January 12, 2026 to January 14, 2026 |
| Advance City Intimation Slip | To be notified |
| Downloading of Admit Card from NTA Website | To be notified |
| Mode of Examination | CBT (GAT) / PBT (CAT) |
| Date of Examination | February 8, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Centre, Date and Shift of Examination | As per the Admit Card |
| Display of Recorded Responses and Answer Keys | To be notified |
| Declaration of Result for Stage-1 on NTA & NIFT Websites | To be notified |
Further announcements regarding the display of recorded responses, answer keys, and the declaration of Stage-1 results will be made by the NTA at a later stage. Candidates are strongly advised to regularly monitor the official NTA website, exams.nta.nic.in, and the NIFT website for all future notifications and crucial updates regarding the NIFT 2026 admissions process. Adherence to deadlines and vigilance for official announcements are key for a successful application.