NATA 2026 OVERVIEW
The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission to the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) program in India.
The exam evaluates a student’s creative ability, visual perception, logical reasoning, and design thinking, which are essential skills for pursuing architecture as a profession.
WHY NATA MATTERS
Architecture is a unique profession that combines creativity, technical knowledge, and social responsibility. Architects design buildings and spaces that influence how people live, work, and interact with the environment.
Through NATA, institutions identify students who have:
- Strong visual and spatial imagination
- Good analytical and logical thinking
- Sensitivity toward design, environment, and aesthetics
- Ability to solve design problems creatively
This exam is the first step toward becoming a professional architect.
NATA 2026 EXAM SCHEDULE
The exam will be conducted in two phases.
PHASE 1 (MAIN EXAM)
- Conducted from April 4, 2026 to June 13, 2026
- Exams held on Fridays and Saturdays
- Students can take up to two attempts
- Best score will be considered for ranking and admission
PHASE 2 (FOR VACANT SEATS)
- Conducted on August 7 and 8, 2026
- Only one attempt allowed
- Used for admissions to remaining seats after counselling.
NATA 2026 EXAM PATTERN
The exam has two main parts.
PART A – DRAWING & COMPOSITION (OFFLINE)
Duration: 90 minutes
Marks: 80
Sections include:
- Composition and Color – creating visual compositions using shapes and colors
- Sketching and Composition – drawing buildings, people, or environments
- 3D Composition – building a 3D model using provided materials
This section tests:
- Creativity
- Visualization skills
- Perspective drawing
- Design understanding
PART B – MCQ + NCQ (ONLINE ADAPTIVE TEST)
Duration: 90 minutes
Marks: 120
Question types:
- 42 MCQs
- 8 NCQs
Topics include:
- Visual reasoning
- Logical reasoning
- Architecture & design awareness
- Language interpretation
- Design sensitivity
- Basic mathematics and geometry.
| Section | Marks |
|---|---|
| Part A – Drawing | 80 |
| Part B – Aptitude | 120 |
| Total | 200 |