Is there negative marking in NIFT 2026?

Yes, for the GAT (General Ability Test), there is a negative marking of 0.25 for every incorrect answer. However, there is no negative marking for the CAT (Creative Ability Test) section.

What is a good score for MFM in NIFT?

To secure a seat at top-tier campuses like NIFT Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru, candidates should aim for a score that places them within the Top 100-150 Common Merit Rank (CMR).

Can I use colors in M.Des CAT?

Yes, you can use dry colors such as color pencils and oil pastels. It is advised to avoid watercolors or markers that might bleed through the paper unless specifically instructed otherwise.

Which section has the most weightage for M.FTech?

In the GAT, Quantitative Ability and Case Studies hold the highest weightage for M.FTech aspirants, testing technical and mathematical proficiency.

What should I carry to the NIFT exam center?

Candidates must carry a printed copy of their Admit Card, a valid Photo ID (Aadhar/Voter ID), blue or black ballpoint pens, and a basic stationery kit (pencils, eraser, and dry colors for M.Des candidates).

NIFT 2026 Final Week Mastery Guide: MFM, M.Des & M.FTech Tips

Cracking NIFT 2026: Final Week Mastery Guide for MFM, M.Des, and M.FTech

Crack NIFT 2026 with our expert last-minute guide. Get topper strategies for GAT/CAT, a 24-hour power revision plan, and exam-day tips for MFM, M.Des & M.FTech.

February 6, 2026

Cracking NIFT 2026: The Ultimate Mastery Guide

Strategic Roadmap for MFM, M.Des, and M.FTech Aspirants

With the NIFT 2026 Entrance Exam scheduled for this Sunday, February 8, 2026, the countdown has officially begun. Whether you are aiming for the business-centric Master of Fashion Management (MFM), the creative Master of Design (M.Des), or the technical Master of Fashion Technology (M.FTech), these final hours are about strategic precision, not just rote learning. This guide is your definitive roadmap to navigating the final stretch and securing your seat at India’s premier fashion institute.

1. The GAT Strategy: Speed, Accuracy, and Logic

The General Ability Test (GAT) is the common denominator. For MFM and M.FTech, this is your primary gateway to a top rank.

Master the Case Study: For MFM (30 Qs) and M.FTech (25 Qs), this decides the toppers. Look for the “why” behind business decisions. Focus on 2026 keywords: Sustainability, AI in Retail, Supply Chain Resilience, and Phygital Experiences.

Quant & Reasoning: M.FTech candidates should prioritize $Time, Speed, and Distance$ and $Work$ equations. For MFM/M.Des, focus on accuracy; if a puzzle takes >2 minutes, move on.

Fashion GK: Stay updated on 2025-26 mergers (LVMH, Reliance Brands), smart textiles, and recent National Film Award winners for costume design.

2. Stream-Specific Excellence

🎨 M.Des (CAT Factor)

NIFT seeks designers, not just painters. Ensure your sketches solve a problem. Practice 2-point perspectives and always write a strong 50-word design logic explanation.

📊 MFM (Managerial Edge)

Practice Managerial Aptitude. Focus on ethics and leadership. Choose answers that balance business profitability with social responsibility.

⚙️ M.FTech (Technical Core)

Review garment production fundamentals, quality control, and manufacturing efficiency. Technical reasoning is key here.

3. The Saturday “Power Revision” Schedule

Execute this plan on Saturday (Feb 7) for peak brain performance.

Time Slot	Activity
08:00 AM – 01:00 PM	Universal Morning: Formula sprints (Profit/Loss, Ratios), Logical Reasoning drills, and Fashion GK flip-through.
02:00 PM – 05:00 PM	Stream Focus: M.Des (Sketching), MFM (Case Studies), or M.FTech (Technical Quant).
06:00 PM – 10:00 PM	The Calm Evening: Mock review (errors only), pack logistics (Admit card, ID, Pens), and 8-hour sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is there negative marking?
Yes, 0.25 for GAT. No negative marking for CAT.

Q2: What is a good score for MFM?
To get Delhi/Mumbai/Bengaluru, aim for a Top 100-150 Common Merit Rank (CMR).

Q3: Can I use colors in CAT?
Dry colors (pencils, pastels) are allowed. Avoid markers that bleed.

Pro-Tip for Exam Day

If you get stuck on a question for more than 60 seconds—Mark for Review and Move On. Your goal is to see all 100+ questions. Trust your preparation!