NID DAT Question Paper 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, Download Previous Year NID Papers
NID DAT Admit Card Date:11 Dec' 25 - 21 Dec' 25
Hi there, students. To help you prepare for the NID DAT 2026 Exam, this article offers you NID previous year question papers with answers for the years 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, and more. Students are encouraged to check the NID previous year question papers with solutions pdf in order to get a sense of the kinds of questions that will be covered in NID entrance exam.
This Story also Contains
- NID Prelims DAT (2021-25) : Key Trends at Glance
- NID Previous Year Question Papers PDF by Coaching Institute
- NID DAT Question Paper PDF by DQ Labs
- NID Question Paper with Solution PDF by AFA Academy
- Official NID Sample Paper
- Key Trends & Strategic Insights for NID DAT Preparation
- Important Topics Based on NID DAT Previous Year Question Paper
NID PYQS can assist candidates in familiarizing themselves with the format of the NID DAT 2026 in order to prepare for the NID entrance exam. To obtain NID DAT last year question papers for the following years: 2025, 2024, 2023, 2021, 2020, and more, read the entire post.
NID Prelims DAT (2021-25) : Key Trends at Glance
Initially the NID-DAT Prelims can feel challenging and complex initially, to help you navigate strategically have distilled the key insights from the last five years (2020-25) are given:
NID DAT Year 2025
The NID DAT 2025 question paper was considered moderate to easy, with Part-A (GAT) emphasizing daily interactions and observational skills. Candidates had to identify logos and symbols such as Nirma and ICICI Bank, along with spatial reasoning and visual interpretation. Part-B (CAT) was scoring for those with strong attention to detail, functionality, and presentation. Design challenges included user-centric problems and situation-based drawing. The paper was well-balanced, accessible, and leaned heavily on application-based design thinking, with a focus on drawing-led creative problem-solving. Students can go through the NID DAT 2025 Exam analysis to understand the NID 2025 Question paper better.
NID DAT Year 2024
The NID DAT 2024 Question paper was moderately difficult but lengthy. Part-A continued to test general awareness including topics like the G-20 Summit and sustainable development, while moving away from mathematical aptitude and toward visual interpretation and logo recognition. The CAT section tested real-world problem-solving through tasks like logo/poster creation, making it moderately challenging. Time management was critical due to the paper’s length, and there was a consistent emphasis on visual reasoning and interpretation.
NID DAT Year 2023
In NID DAT 2023 Question Paper, the difficulty level was moderate to difficult. The general awareness section was easier than prior years, covering topics such as the Padma Awards and Covid-19. However, pictorial diagram-based questions posed a challenge. The CAT section was time-consuming and included both subjective and objective questions totaling over 25. Drawing tasks were reported to be tricky and lengthy, demanding effective time management. Visual interpretation was a key focus, making the section scoring but tough.
NID DAT Year 2022
The 2022 exam was moderately difficult, with Part-A focusing on aptitude topics like Venn diagrams, seating arrangements, mirror/water images, and general awareness themes such as UPI and Olympic symbols. Part-B saw a shift with reduced weightage (from 60 to 40 marks), placing more importance on Part-A. Drawing challenges in CAT included product design, storyboarding, and proportional sketching—questions were moderate and manageable. There was some confusion in question categorization, such as visual interpretation being considered mathematical aptitude.
NID DAT Year 2021
The 2021 paper was rated moderate to easy but was lengthy. Part-A had technically oriented questions, such as different viewing angles. In Part-B, emphasis was placed on technical sketching—one example asked candidates to depict a sibling interrupting another to create distraction. Another question focused on poster design around bullying. The paper challenged candidates in thinking, drawing, and technical skills. New themes like “question interpretation” demanded accurate contextual understanding, adding to the time-consuming nature of the exam.
For NID DAT 2026, candidates should expect a continued emphasis on design and creative problem-solving, with less focus on traditional reasoning, making practice in creative skills and time management crucial for success.
NID Previous Year Question Papers PDF by Coaching Institute
Various coaching institutes such as DQ Labs released the NID previous year question paper with solution . Aspirants are provided with a direct link to download NID question papers for previous years on this page. Using DAT question papers, candidates can have a better understanding of the NID entrance exam syllabus.
NID B.Des Question Paper with Solution PDF by Silica Institute
NID 2024 Questions with Answers
NID Questions Paper 2023, 2022
NID M.Des Question Paper with Solution PDF by Silica Institute
NID DAT Question Paper PDF by DQ Labs
NID Question Paper with Solution PDF by AFA Academy
Official NID Sample Paper
Similar to NID DAT previous year question papers, attempting sample papers is also beneficial for effective preparation. The authorities release the official NID DAT sample paper every year. NID DAT sample papers are designed in the pattern similar to the actual exam pattern. NID DAT sample paper download link is available in the table below.
Official NID DAT Sample Papers
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You may also check:
Key Trends & Strategic Insights for NID DAT Preparation
Our detailed 05-year analysis conclude to the following undeniable trends and should help you better plan the future preparation based on inferences from previous years as follows:
- Be a Creative Warrior : Part-B which majorly tests your creative skills through various strategic questions is one of the most undeniable scoring sections, provided you approach prepared with technical skills and lots of practice.
- Beyond Rote Learning : With each gradual passing year the questions are becoming more contextual and application from the real-world challenges.
- Work on Observation Skills : Your ability to notice the subtle details and interpret the visual, auditory and sensory information will help you ace the DAT examinations.
- Develop Sketching as a Medium to Storytelling : Communicating effectively in a DAT, Part-B will be possible though story visual communication skills that can effectively be developed with consistent practice in outdoor settings and absorbing details.
Important Topics Based on NID DAT Previous Year Question Paper
Candidates can check NID DAT important topics based on NID previous year question paper with answer below.
NID DAT Important Topics
Subject | List Of Topics |
General Knowledge And Current Affairs | STATIC GK |
Analytical Ability | |
SERIES-NONVERBAL | |
MIRROR IMAGE | |
EMBEDDED/ HIDDEN IMAGE | |
CUBES AND DICES | |
VENN DIAGRAM | |
FIGURE COUNTING | |
DIRECTION BASED | |
PAPER CUTTING | |
SEATING ARRANGEMENT | |
English | ENGLISH COMPREHENSION - DESIGN RELATED |
Analytical Ability | MATCH THE FOLLOWING |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
NID DAT exam question paper consist of two sections - subjective type questions and objective type questions.
Following effective exam tactics will help in securing good marks in NID DAT. Solving the previous year's question will help the candidates in understanding the type of question, and difficulty level and score good marks.
By solving the previous year question, candidates will be able to get rid of exam fears, stress, and time management, enhance the confidence level of the candidates, speed of solving the question, and accuracy level.
To prepare for the NID DAT exam, you need to have a good understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern of both the prelims and mains stages. You can also download the nid entrance exam sample papers pdf and solve them frequently.
Based on previous year exam analysis, the difficulty level of NID exam is moderate.
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Questions related to NID DAT
On Question asked by student community
Hello,
Preparing for the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance exam involves focusing on several key areas. Here’s a structured approach to get you started:
1. Understand the Exam Structure
Familiarize yourself with the NIFT entrance exam format:
- General Ability Test (GAT): Tests general knowledge, current affairs, and quantitative ability.
- Creative Ability Test (CAT): Assesses your creative and visual ability through sketching and design-based questions.
- Situation Test (for B.Des): Evaluates your ability to create a design from given materials.
- Group Discussion and Personal Interview (for M.Des/MFM): Tests your communication skills, understanding of the fashion industry, and design knowledge.
2. Gather Study Materials
- For GAT: Use general knowledge books, current affairs magazines, and quantitative aptitude guides.
- For CAT: Practice sketching and drawing regularly. Books on design and creativity can be useful.
- For Situation Test: Practice creating models from various materials and understanding design principles.
- For GD/PI: Prepare by staying updated on fashion trends, industry news, and developing a strong portfolio.
3. Create a Study Plan
- Daily Study: Allocate time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Weekly Goals: Set goals for completing practice papers and revising key concepts.
- Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and improve time management.
4. Enroll in Coaching Classes (if needed)
Consider joining a coaching institute that specializes in NIFT preparation. They can provide structured guidance, practice tests, and expert feedback.
5. Work on Your Portfolio
If you’re applying for design courses, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your creative work. Include sketches, designs, and any relevant projects.
6. Refer to Previous Years’ Papers
Solving past years' question papers helps you understand the exam pattern and types of questions. It also aids in identifying important topics.
7. Stay Updated
- Follow fashion industry news to stay informed about trends and innovations.
- Read relevant books and articles about design and fashion.
8. Practice Creativity
Engage in activities that boost your creativity, such as drawing, painting, or crafting. Keep experimenting with new ideas and techniques.
By focusing on these areas, you'll build a solid foundation for the NIFT entrance exam. Good luck with your preparation!
You can also refer to the following articles to better understand the NIFT examination and its preperation strategy :-
1. https://design.careers360.com/articles/how-prepare-for-nift-entrance-exam
2. https://design.careers360.com/exams/nift-entrance-exam
Hope it helps !
No, diploma or polytechnic students are generally not eligible to apply for the NID DAT exam.
The eligibility criteria for NID DAT typically requires a 10+2 qualification or its equivalent. This means you must have completed your higher secondary education to be eligible for the exam.
I hope this information helps.
Stages of the Exam:
The PG NID entrance exam typically consists of two stages:
-
Prelims:
This written test might include objective and subjective questions to assess your design aptitude, creativity, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of design principles.
- Mains: Candidates who qualify in the prelims are called for the mains stage, which usually involves a studio test, design exercises, and sometimes a personal interview. The specific format might vary depending on the chosen M.Des. specialization.
Prelims Exam Pattern (General Expectations):
Here is a general idea of what the prelims might cover, though the specific weightage and question types can vary:
-
Design Aptitude:
This section might assess your visual thinking, observation skills, ability to identify patterns, and spatial reasoning. Expect questions on visual perception, mental ability tests, and basic design principles.
-
Discipline-Specific Test (for some programs):
Certain M.Des. specializations might have a separate test focusing on the specific design discipline.
- General Aptitude Test: This section might include questions on analytical reasoning, verbal ability, and general knowledge.
Mains Exam Pattern (General Expectations):
The mains exam format is more program-specific, but might involve elements like:
-
Studio Test:
This hands-on test assesses your design skills, creativity, and ability to translate ideas into visual form. The specific task or materials used can vary depending on the chosen specialization.
-
Design Exercises:
You might be presented with design challenges or problems to solve creatively. This assesses your approach to design thinking and problem-solving.
- Personal Interview (for some programs): Some specializations might have a personal interview to assess your motivation, interest in the field, and understanding of the program.
I hope it helps!
Hello,
If you forgot to write the question paper code and date on your NID DAT prelims OMR sheet, contact the exam authorities immediately. They may have procedures in place to handle such situations. According to me there should be no problem for you even if you have not filled paper code as you filled all the other necessary details.
Hope this helps you,
Thank you
Hello aspirant,
The National Institute of Design (NID) has not yet made the NID DAT 2024 exam's official syllabus public. But you can check the important topics for this exam on our site by clicking on the link given below.
https://design.careers360.com/articles/nid-dat-syllabus
Thank you
Hope this information helps you.