How to Crack the NID Entrance Exam on Your First Attempt

Posted On: 17 October 2025 | 08:58:pm

The National Institute of Design (NID) stands as a beacon for aspiring designers in India, offering premier undergraduate and postgraduate programs in design. With its rigorous selection process, cracking the NID Entrance Exam on your first attempt requires a blend of creativity, strategic preparation, and the right guidance. Institutions like BRDS (Bhanwar Rathore Design Studio) have been instrumental in shaping successful candidates through their specialized NID coaching programs.

Understanding the NID Entrance Exam Structure

The NID Entrance Exam comprises two main stages:

NID DAT Prelims: A pen-and-paper-based written test assessing design aptitude, creativity, logical reasoning, and general awareness.
NID DAT Mains: A studio test that evaluates hands-on skills, problem-solving abilities, and design thinking through activities like sketching, model-making, and group discussions.

To excel, it’s crucial to understand the syllabus thoroughly, which includes topics such as visual and spatial ability, observation and design sensitivity, and creative thinking.

1. Enroll in Specialized NID Coaching

Opting for professional NID coaching can provide structured learning, expert guidance, and access to quality study materials. Institutions like BRDS offer comprehensive coaching programs tailored for both B.Des and M.Des aspirants. Their offerings include:

Regular and Weekend Courses: Spanning 6 months to 1 year, these courses cater to students at various levels.
Crash Courses: Intensive 10-day to 2-month programs designed for focused preparation.
Live Online Coaching: Interactive sessions with real-time feedback, ideal for those balancing other commitments.

BRDS boasts a remarkable track record, with over 2,000 students selected in NID 2024 alone. Notably, Hardik Shree from Ranchi secured the All India Rank 1 in B.Des.

2. Leverage Quality NID Study Material

Access to the right study material is pivotal. Comprehensive NID study kits typically include:

Creative Aptitude Test Books: Focusing on design sensitivity and problem-solving.
General Aptitude Test Resources: Enhancing logical reasoning and analytical skills.
Previous Years’ Solved Question Banks: Providing insights into exam patterns and question types.
Mock Test Papers: Simulating real exam conditions for practice.

Institutions like AFA India offer specialized M.Des study materials, which are beneficial for postgraduate aspirants.

3. Practice Regularly with NID Online Coaching

For those unable to attend physical classes, NID online coaching presents a flexible alternative. Platforms like Creative Edge provide:

Unlimited Mock Test Series: Allowing for extensive practice.
Doubt Clearing Sessions: Ensuring conceptual clarity.
Study Materials: Covering all aspects of the NID syllabus.
Free Demo Classes: Offering a glimpse into the coaching methodology.

These resources enable aspirants to prepare at their own pace, making quality coaching accessible to a broader audience.

4. Focus on NID Studio Test Preparation

The NID Studio Test assesses practical skills and creativity. Preparation should include:

Daily Sketching Practice: Enhancing drawing speed and accuracy.
Model-Making Exercises: Developing hands-on skills.
Group Discussions: Improving communication and presentation abilities.

Sample questions from previous studio tests can provide insights into the types of tasks expected. For instance, candidates have been asked to design a bag for a working woman or create a model of an ergonomic optical mouse.

5. Time Management and Consistent Practice

Effective time management is crucial during preparation. Strategies include:

Creating a Study Timetable: Allocating specific time slots for different subjects.
Setting Realistic Goals: Breaking down the syllabus into manageable portions.
Regular Revision: Ensuring retention of learned concepts.

Consistent practice, coupled with periodic assessments, helps in building confidence and identifying areas that need improvement.

Final Thoughts

Cracking the NID Entrance Exam on your first attempt is achievable with the right approach. By enrolling in specialized NID coaching, utilizing quality study materials, practicing regularly, and managing time effectively, aspirants can enhance their chances of success. Institutions like BRDS and Creative Edge have been instrumental in guiding numerous students toward their goal of securing admission into NID.

Remember, consistent effort and a strategic approach are key to excelling in the NID Entrance Exam.