M.Des DAT Prelims Result 2026-27
Although NID does not officially declare a fixed pattern, based on past years the Studio Test may include:
Materials provided on the spot
No glue sometimes allowed
Focus on structure & concept explanation
Complete abstract shapes creatively
Add titles or themes
Abstract themes like balance, growth, chaos, sustainability
Social issue-based design solution
Visual storytelling or storyboard creation
Explain your concept clearly
Present personal creative work
For M.Des candidates:
Studio Test + Interview carry significant weightage in final selection.
Based on trends and past formats, here are highly probable task types:
Expected Question Example:
Create a moving toy using bamboo sticks, thread, paper and balloons.
Trend 2026 Focus:
Interaction
Movement
Structural logic
Expected Question Example:
Design a portable rain shelter solution for street vendors.
Likely themes:
Sustainability
Plastic waste reduction
Urban challenges
Public space solutions
Expected Question Example:
Design a foldable study table for small apartments using paper and straws.
Evaluation Criteria:
Stability
Smart folding
Practical usability
Expected Themes for 2026:
Connection
Urban Life
Chaos vs Order
Sustainability
Growth
Keep it minimal and meaningful.
Format:
10–12 boxes
Random lines
Create theme-based visuals
Add titles
Common formats repeated across years:
Toy design without glue
Chair design using straws
Storyboard of rainwater journey
Social issue-based illustration
Pattern making using paper strips
Mechanism design using cardboard and pins
Remember: NID repeats structure, not exact questions.
Use waste materials
Set 1-hour time limit
Focus on clean finishing
After making any model, practice explaining:
Problem
Solution
Target user
Functionality
Include:
Sketches
Process work
3D experiments
Personal creative projects
Eco-friendly thinking is increasingly important.
Time management matters heavily during Studio Test.
The NID Studio Test is the second stage of the NID admission process conducted by the National Institute of Design. It evaluates creativity, material handling, problem-solving skills, and design thinking through practical tasks like model making, doodle completion, and clay modelling.
For B.Des candidates, the NID Studio Test 2026 is expected to be conducted in May 2026. For M.Des candidates, it is likely to be held in March 2026 after the DAT Prelims results.
The Studio Test usually includes:
Model making
Clay modelling
Doodle completion
Situation-based design problem
Functional product creation
Interview & portfolio discussion
The Studio Test plays a crucial role in the final selection. Along with the interview, it determines whether a candidate gets admission into NID after clearing DAT Prelims.
Pahal Design provides:
Model making practice sessions
Portfolio development guidance
Mock Studio Tests
Interview preparation
Hands-on material handling training
This helps students improve creativity, structure building, and concept explanation skills required to crack NID DAT Mains.
No prior experience is required. With proper training and guided practice at Pahal Design, students can develop the necessary skills for the Studio Test.
