National Aptitude test in Architecture

NATA 2025 Eligibility Criteria

The Council of Architecture (COA) has released the NATA 2025 eligibility criteria in the official information brochure on nata.in. Candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12th with Physics, Chemistry and Maths as mandatory subjects can apply for the exam.

• There is no age limit for NATA 2025. Candidates might have to meet the age requirements set by COA.
• There is no minimum marks required to fill the NATA 2025 application form. Candidates need at least 50% to apply for B.Arch admission at participating colleges.

NATA 2025 assesses a candidate's observation skills, drawing skills, sense of proportion, aesthetic sensitivity, and critical thinking ability. These skills are important for getting admission into Bachelor of Architecture.

NATA 2025 Eligibility Criteria Highlights

NATA 2025 Eligibility Conditions

To become eligible for NATA, a candidate must fulfill a set of eligibility conditions. These are the predefined criteria set up by COA:

• Candidates must have obtained 50% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and also an overall 50% aggregate score at 10+2 level.
• Candidates who have passed any 10+3 diploma exam with Mathematics as a subject and scored at least 50% marks are also eligible to apply for the exam.
• Students appearing in class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are eligible to appear in NATA. Their result will be declared valid only after fulfilling the above criteria.
• The marks cannot be rounded off. If a candidate has secured 49.9% marks in the qualifying exam, the marks would be counted as 49.9% only.
• The lower age limit for appearing in NATA has been waived. The candidate has to comply with any age constraints specified by the respective Counselling/ Admission Authority.
• Scores are valid for a period of 12 months (1 year) from the date a candidate appears for NATA exam.
• For students of International/ NRI status, NATA 2025 eligibility remains the same as it is for Indian nationals. There is no separate set of eligibility parameters for international/NRI candidates.

NATA 2025 Eligibility For Admission to B.Arch. Course

Qualifying in NATA 2025 does not constitute a right for admission into any Architecture course. Candidates must fulfill all the prescribed requirements as specified by respective counseling and Admission Authorities.

NATA 2025 Eligibility Criteria

Admission to the B.Arch course in 2025 requires a valid score in a recognized aptitude test in Architecture, such as NATA or an equivalent exam.

Candidates must meet one of the following educational qualifications:

• Passed 10+2 with 50% marks aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, and 50% marks overall at the 10+2 level.
• Passed a 10+3 diploma exam with 50% marks and Mathematics as a subject.

The same eligibility criteria apply to SC/ST/OBC and other special category candidates. Candidates can check reservation schemes with the admission authorities while applying.

Note: No direct lateral admission is allowed at any year or stage of the B.Arch course, regardless of qualification.

Purpose of NATA

NATA scores are used by admission authorities of Government, Government-aided, and unaided schools or colleges offering Bachelor's degree in Architecture.

The exam provides a common base to compare the qualifications of candidates along with their scores in the qualifying examination.

NATA 2025 Exam Dates

The tentative dates for NATA 2025 are listed below. Candidates preparing for the entrance exam should track these dates.

NATA 2025 Eligibility FAQs

What is NATA eligibility for B.Arch, and can students with mathematics and commerce appear?

Admission requires a minimum of 50% marks in 10+2 in any stream (Commerce or PCM) with mathematics as a subject, and 40% marks in the NATA exam.

What is the age limit for NATA?

There is no age limit to take admission in NATA. Candidates may have to register according to any age limit decided by the admission authority.

What is the educational qualification required?

The academic eligibility for NATA is summarized below:

Can a candidate reappear for NATA if not satisfied with the score?

Yes, a candidate can reappear for NATA up to 5 times within the validity period of the last scorecard. The candidate must register again each time they reappear.

Can an NRI student take the exam from their country of residence?

No, the candidate must register in India for the NATA exam and appear from an allocated center in India. Admissions are given as per the guidelines.

Is there a score waiver for SC/ST category candidates?

No, as per the guidelines, no waiver is allotted to any candidate.

What is the validity of NATA scores?

NATA scores are valid for only one year.

Can a candidate take direct admission through lateral entry in B.Arch?

No, a candidate cannot take direct admission through lateral entry in any year of B.Arch.

NATA Eligibility for B.Arch Admission

To be eligible for admission, a candidate must have at least 50% marks in 10+2 in any stream (Commerce or PCM) with mathematics as a subject. The candidate must also score at least 40% marks in the NATA exam.

Educational Qualification

The table below lists the academic qualifications required for NATA.

Age Limit for NATA

There is no age limit to take admission through NATA. The candidate may have to register any age limit that the admission authority may have decided.

NATA Score Validity and Reappearing

NATA scores are valid for only one year. A candidate who is not satisfied with the score can reappear for the exam.

• A candidate can reappear for NATA up to 5 times within the validity period of the last scorecard.
• The candidate must register themselves again every time they reappear.

Admission Rules

Admission to B.Arch without NATA is not possible in any architecture college in India. Candidates who have not taken NATA can try for management seats in some colleges.

Whether NATA is compulsory depends on the college. Most good colleges select candidates based on marks in 12th, NATA, or JEE Mains Paper 2.

Lateral entry into any year of B.Arch is not allowed. Candidates cannot take direct admission through lateral entry.

NRI and Category Queries

NRI candidates cannot take the exam from their country of residence. They must register in India and appear from an allocated center in India.

Admissions are given to candidates as per the guidelines. No score waiver is allotted to any candidate, including those from SC/ST categories.

Contact Information for NATA 2025

The contact details for NATA 2025 are as follows:

Council of Architecture
India Habitat Centre, Core 6A, 1st Floor,
Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110003 India
Tel: 01179412100

NATA 2026 Phase 2 Registration

NATA 2026 Phase 2 registration begins on June 23, 2026. The application form is available on the official website, nata.in.

Phase 2 is only for candidates who did not appear in Phase 1 at all. The Phase 2 exam will be held on August 7 and 8, 2026.

NATA 2026 Important Dates

The table below lists the key NATA 2026 events.

Phase 1 Results and Score Calculation

Results for all Phase 1 test sessions, including the final sittings on June 12–13, 2026, are now available. This completes the Phase 1 result cycle.

The Council of Architecture calculates the final percentile score using the best raw score across both Phase 1 attempts. The consolidated percentile scorecard is expected by late June 2026, after results for all Phase 1 dates are compiled.

How to Apply for NATA 2026

Candidates need to visit the official website to start the registration process. The steps are listed below.

1. Generate username and password by entering relevant details.
2. Fill in personal details.
3. Upload the required documents.
4. Pay the pre-requisite NATA 2026 registration fee.

Completing these steps finishes the registration process.

NATA 2026 Important Dates

NATA 2026 is conducted in two phases. The table below lists the key dates for registration, exams, and results.

NATA Registration 2026

The NATA application form is completely online and interactive. The form is divided into sections and subsections for the ease of candidates. Mandatory fields are marked as required, without which the form will not be submitted.

Online guidance is provided while filling the application form. When candidates arrive at a certain field, a cursor tip message is shown to assist in entering the required detail.

• Candidates who face difficulty can click on the HELP icon. This redirects them to the concerned section in the official NATA 2026 Brochure.
• Applicants must ensure their personal details — name, parents' name, and postal address — are unique and valid.

A unique 8-digit application number is provided to every applicant. Along with it, candidates choose a password, which is essential for further entries.

Note: Candidates are advised not to send the Application Confirmation Page by post to the Council of Architecture. Offline correspondence is not required for NATA 2026.

Steps to Fill NATA Application Form 2026

The NATA 2026 application process is divided into 3 main steps: personal and qualification details, document and image uploading, and fee payment. At the end, a confirmation page is displayed, which must be downloaded and kept for future reference.

Step 1: Basic Registration

Candidates begin by creating a login ID and password. Personal details like name, gender, and contact information are required for this step. A unique ID and security question are mandatory to generate the application number.

A unique 8-digit application number is created. This number, along with the password, is used for further login and form filling.

Step 2: Re-Login and Fill out the Application Form

Using the generated credentials, candidates must log in again to their portal and complete the application form. Qualification details, marks, and exam center preference are mentioned at this stage.

Step 3: Upload Scanned Images

Scanned copies of the candidate's photograph and signature must be uploaded. The photograph should be recent and preferably taken on a light background. The signature should be scanned on a white background in a clear format.

NATA 2026 Image Uploading Details

Step 4: Confirmation Page

After completing the uploads and fee payment, a confirmation page is displayed. Candidates must download and keep this page for future reference.

How to Apply for NATA

The application process for NATA requires candidates to complete several steps after registration. The steps are explained below.

• Download the prefilled registration form from the official website.
• Procure the necessary registration documents.
• Select a NATA Test Center from the official website at a convenient location.
• Approach the Test Center to schedule an appointment for the NATA exam.
• Collect the Receipt cum Appointment voucher from the Test Center.
• Take the exam on the registered date.

NATA 2026 Application Fee

Candidates must pay the NATA 2025 application fees after submitting their documents. The payment page opens after personal details and document uploading are completed, and payment is accepted only in online mode.

Payment Through Electronic Payment Gateway

NATA accepts fee payment only online. Candidates click on "payment of fee using EPG services" to reach a new gateway page.

Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking are the available payment options. After a successful payment, the status appears on the candidate's homepage, and the Final Confirmation Page is displayed and available for download only after that.

Guidelines for Filling NATA Online Application Form

Candidates must enter personal credentials exactly as they appear in the Class 12th or equivalent exam certificate. The following points apply to the personal information section.

Personal Information

• Applicant's Name, Father's Name, and Mother's Name should be no more than 46 characters and match the school leaving certificate. Prefixes like Sri, Mr, Ms, Dr, and Late are not required.
• Date of Birth must be entered in DD/MM/YYYY format as recorded in the secondary or higher secondary certificate.
• Gender must be chosen from three categories: Male, Female, and Transgender. Category options are General, SC, ST, OBC, and NCL.
• The persons with disabilities section is auto-filled as NO. If applicable, choose Yes from the drop-down menu and select the type: Visual Acuity, One Eye Vision, Physically Challenged, or others.
• Aadhar Number is not mandatory. Candidates must fill their place of residence as Rural, Urban, or Sub Urban, and their nationality as Indian, OCI, PIO, or Foreign national.

Qualification Details

Candidates must provide details such as Passed or Appearing status, Year, Stream, and Affiliated Board. Institute name and address, percentage marks obtained, and Roll No. are mandatory for both Class 10 and 10+2 levels.

Choice of First and Second Test Session

• Candidates can choose the first session, the second session, or both as per their preference.
• Applying for the second test is not mandatory if the candidate plans to appear for the first one. The choice is left to the candidate.

Address of Communication

Candidates must enter their residential address and domicile, including state, district, and pincode. A valid Email ID and Mobile or Landline number are required for further correspondence.

Password Generation

Candidates must create a login password of minimum 8 to 13 characters with one alphabet, one numeral, and one special character. If a password is forgotten, a new one can be retrieved, but it must not be identical to the previous three passwords.

One security question must be chosen from a drop-down list, and a relevant answer must be entered and noted down for future password retrieval.

How to Retrieve NATA 2025 Candidate ID

All candidates have the option to retrieve their NATA 2025 Candidate ID. The steps are listed below.

• Visit the official NATA website.
• Use the provided retrieval option for the Candidate ID.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to recover the ID.

How to Recover NATA 2026 Candidate ID and Password

Candidates who forget their NATA 2026 Candidate ID or password can recover them through the official website. The process is simple and requires details from the 10th standard examination.

• Visit the official site of NATA 2026.
• Click on "Find NATA Candidate ID".
• Enter the 10th standard Roll Number, 10th passing year, and 10th board name in the respective text boxes.
• Enter the verification code and click on "Find NATA Candidate ID". The ID will be displayed on the screen.
• If the password is forgotten, click on the 'Forgot password' link and answer the security question.
• If the security question is also forgotten, choose the option to change the password. A mail will be sent to the registered email ID to change the password.

NATA 2025 Application Form Status

Applicants can check the status of their application form by logging into the official site. The status shows whether the form is complete or has pending items.

• Enter the application number and password in the input box and click 'submit'. The complete application form will be displayed.
• Candidates can view their application form. Empty fields will be marked red, and completed fields will be marked green.
• A message will be displayed if payment is incomplete or pending.
• Candidates must make the required changes to submit the completely filled form.

NATA 2026 Application Form Correction

Candidates who make mistakes while filling the application form can correct them through the form correction facility. The correction process is done through the Helpdesk.

• Create a new ticket on the Helpdesk with the subject/title: "Error Correction:<>".
• Describe the nature of the error and the correction required.
• Attach scanned copies of original documents supporting the change requested.
• Contact the concerned authority for any assistance.

COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
India Habitat Centre, Core 6A, 1st Floor, Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110003 India
Mobile: +91-9073301301
Tel: +91-11-79412100
Specific Query related to NATA Examination
Mobile: +91-9073301301
Email: nata-coa@gov.in
NATA email – nata.helpdesk2023@gmail.com

NATA 2026 Exam Center Allocation

Council of Architecture conducts NATA in all state capitals and selected cities across India. Allotment of the exam center depends on the availability of at least 200 students in a particular exam center or city.

Authorities provide centers as per the preference of candidates, but the final discretion lies with the authority. Requests for change in Exam Center will not be entertained by CoA, so candidates should choose the exam center carefully while filling the application form. Candidates can give a maximum of 3 preferences in the choice of their exam center.

Do's and Don'ts of NATA Application Form Filling

NATA 2026 Application Form FAQs

Ques. Which documents are required before filling the NATA 2025 application form?

Ans. Before filling the form, a candidate must have the following documents ready:

• 10+2 mark sheet.
• Scanned Photograph and Signature of proper size and format.
• Photo Identity Proof.
• Caste certificate in case of SC/ST category candidates.

Ques. What is the process of registration for NATA 2025?

Ans. Students should visit nata.in to apply for NATA 2025. The application process involves two stages: Registration and submitting Application. The registration process starts after clicking on the link on the official website.

Documents Required for NATA 2025 Application

Before filling the NATA 2025 application form, a candidate must have certain documents ready. These documents are needed during the registration and form-filling process.

• 10+2 mark sheet.
• Scanned photograph and signature in the proper size and format.
• Photo identity proof.
• Caste certificate for SC/ST category candidates.

NATA 2025 Registration Process

The application process for NATA 2025 is conducted online at the official website nata.in. The process has two stages: registration and submitting the application form.

The registration steps are as follows:

1. Click on the "Register" button on the website. This will direct the candidate to a new page.
2. Click on "Register" again to sign up.
3. Fill in the mandatory details, including name, gender, email ID, and password.
4. After completing these details, the candidate can log in to fill the application form.

Photo and Signature Upload Guidelines

The scanned images of the photograph and signature must meet specific specifications for upload. The format and size of these files are checked during registration.

NATA 2025 Application Fee

The NATA 2025 application fee has been revised. The fee for a single test is Rs 1750 for General and OBC male candidates.

For SC and ST candidates, the application fee is Rs 1250 for a single test. Fees for other categories are listed in the main article.

Admit Card Download

Candidates can download their NATA 2025 admit cards from the official website. The admit card can be downloaded using the application number and date of birth.

Application Submission by Post

Candidates do not need to send their application form by post. The online application is the only valid process, and no documents need to be sent offline.

Aadhaar Card Requirement

An Aadhaar card is mandatory for applying for NATA 2025. Candidates who do not have an Aadhaar card must apply for one before filling the application form.

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern: Overview

NATA 2026 (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) is a 3-hour (180-minute) hybrid exam for 200 marks. The Council of Architecture (CoA) conducts the exam.

The exam has two parts. Part A is an offline drawing test worth 80 marks. Part B is an online Computer-Based Test worth 120 marks.

Each part runs for 90 minutes. Both parts are held back-to-back on the same day.

NATA 2026 Important Dates

NATA 2026 has two phases. Phase 1 runs from April to June 2026.

Phase 2 is scheduled for August 7–8, 2026. The exam pattern and marking scheme are identical across both phases.

• Phase 1: April–June 2026
• Phase 2: August 7–8, 2026

NATA 2026 Detailed Exam Pattern

Part A is the Drawing & Composition test worth 80 marks. It has 3 drawing tasks.

• Composition & Color: 25 marks
• Sketching & Composition: 25 marks
• 3D Composition: 30 marks

Part B is the Aptitude CBT worth 120 marks. It has 45 aptitude questions delivered as a Computer Adaptive Test.

• 30 MCQs at 2 marks each
• 15 NCQs at 4 marks each

NATA Marking Scheme 2026

NATA 2026 has no negative marking for any question type. Candidates can attempt all Part B questions without penalty.

NATA Subject-Wise Exam Pattern 2026

Part A covers drawing and composition skills. Part B covers aptitude topics including spatial visualization, logical reasoning, and architectural awareness.

The medium of the exam is English and Hindi. The test is a Computer Adaptive Test for Part B.

NATA Question Types 2026

Part A has 3 drawing and composition tasks. These are offline pen-and-paper tasks.

Part B has 45 questions. These include 30 MCQs and 15 NCQs.

NATA Exam Pattern: Changes in 2026 vs Previous Year

The source does not provide specific changes between NATA 2026 and the previous year. The exam pattern and marking scheme are identical across both phases of NATA 2026.

How to Prepare Based on NATA Exam Pattern

Since there is no negative marking, candidates should attempt every question in Part B. Focus on drawing practice for Part A and aptitude preparation for Part B.

NATA Exam Pattern FAQs

How many attempts are allowed per year?

NATA 2026 allows only one attempt per year. Candidates must choose either Phase 1 or Phase 2.

What is the official website for NATA 2026?

The direct link to the NATA official website is www.nata.in.

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern: Important Dates

NATA 2026 is held in two phases. Phase 1 ended in June 2026, and Phase 2 is scheduled for August 7–8, 2026. Phase 2 is the current active window for students who did not appear in Phase 1.

The exam pattern and marking scheme are identical in both phases. Admit cards for Phase 2 are typically released on the Tuesday (for Friday exams) or Wednesday (for Saturday exams) before each exam date.

Source: Council of Architecture – NATA Official Website

NATA 2026: Detailed Exam Pattern

NATA 2026 is divided into Part A (Drawing & Composition Test) and Part B (Aptitude Test). Part A is held offline, while Part B is held as an online Computer Adaptive Test. Both parts are on the same exam day.

Part A runs first, followed by a short break and then Part B. The total is 48 questions across both parts, worth 200 marks in 180 minutes.

Part A – Drawing & Composition Test (Offline, 80 Marks, 90 Minutes)

Part B – Aptitude Test (Computer-Based Adaptive Test, 120 Marks, 90 Minutes)

Combined Pattern Summary

Note: Part A drawing tasks are not auto-graded. Expert evaluators score each drawing against structured rubrics covering composition, aesthetic quality, spatial accuracy, and color or tonal use. The adaptive nature of Part B means you cannot return to previous questions once you proceed — plan each answer before submitting.

NATA Marking Scheme 2026

NATA 2026 applies a no negative marking policy across all sections. Wrong answers and unattempted questions in Part B both score zero — there is no deduction.

MCQs in Part B carry 2 marks each, and the higher-value NCQs carry 4 marks each. Part A (Drawing) is assessed by expert examiners using defined scoring criteria, not automatically graded.

NATA 2026 Marking Scheme

NATA 2026 has no negative marking. Candidates should attempt every question in Part B.

Part A drawing tasks are scored by examiners. Part B questions are scored by the computer system.

Part A is scored holistically. Examiners assess each drawing on composition and spatial balance, quality of line and form, color or tonal accuracy, and originality of interpretation.

Scores from multiple evaluators are moderated before the final Part A mark is assigned. Candidates cannot predict or calculate a Part A score mid-exam; all three tasks must be completed within 90 minutes.

NATA Subject-Wise Exam Pattern 2026

NATA 2026 does not use traditional subject divisions like Physics, Chemistry, or Biology. The exam tests architecture-specific aptitude areas across Part A and Part B.

The breakdown below shows each competency area, what it tests, and how much it contributes to the total score.

Part A – Drawing & Composition (80 Marks)

Part B – Aptitude Test (120 Marks)

NATA 2026 Part B is a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT format). The difficulty of questions adjusts dynamically based on previous answers.

Strong early performance routes a candidate to harder, higher-discrimination questions. The system measures ability level rather than just raw score.

NATA Question Types 2026

NATA 2026 Part B has two primary question formats — Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) and No-Choice Questions (NCQ). Part A uses a non-objective drawing format evaluated by human examiners.

Each question type in Part B has a specific marks structure and demands a different answering approach.

CoA may also incorporate Preferential Choice Questions (PCQ) and Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) within the adaptive CBT framework in some sessions. Candidates should verify the final question-type breakdown in the official NATA brochure at nata.in before the exam date.

NCQ questions carry 4 marks each — double the MCQ value. The B2 section is the highest per-question opportunity in the entire test.

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern: Key Changes

NATA 2026 brings major structural changes to the exam. The most significant is the reduction in allowed attempts, from 3 attempts in 2025 to a single attempt per year in 2026.

Part B will now use Computer Adaptive Testing. This changes both preparation strategy and in-exam behaviour compared to previous years.

In the Computer Adaptive Test for Part B, question difficulty adjusts in real time. You cannot revisit or change previous answers in the adaptive section.

The removal of the minimum score requirement helps students who perform well in Part A (Drawing) but find Part B harder. Any non-zero score now qualifies, allowing more students to be considered for architecture college admissions based on combined performance.

How to Prepare for NATA 2026

Preparation strategy must reflect the exam's two distinct 90-minute halves. Each half tests completely different skills.

Balancing Part A (drawing and aesthetic ability) with Part B (logical and mathematical reasoning) is the central challenge. The tips below come directly from the 2026 exam pattern.

1. Make A3 (3D Composition, 30 marks) the highest priority in Part A: It is the single highest-scoring component in the entire exam. Practice drawing 3D objects, shadow projection, isometric views, and spatial assembly for at least 30 minutes every day.
2. Time yourself to 25–30 minutes per Part A drawing task: Part A gives 90 minutes for 3 tasks. Over-spending on one drawing risks leaving another incomplete. Practice full mock tests with a timer to build consistent pacing.
3. Attempt every question in Part B — zero penalty for wrong answers: With no negative marking, leaving any MCQ or NCQ blank is a guaranteed loss of marks. Use remaining time to make your best educated guess on uncertain questions.
4. Focus NCQ preparation on mathematical and spatial problem-solving: NCQs carry 4 marks each — double the MCQ value. Strong performance in the B2 section can decisively lift your total score. Practice numerical accuracy under timed conditions.
5. Build color media speed for the A1 Composition and Color task: At 25 marks, A1 rewards confident use of color. Practice regularly with pencil colors and poster colors to develop both technique and speed. Slow color application costs you composition time.
6. Study architectural awareness regularly for Part B: Landmark buildings, famous architects (Indian and global), architectural movements, and built-environment concepts appear consistently in Part B aptitude questions. Fifteen minutes of reading daily builds this knowledge progressively.
7. Practice on an adaptive mock test platform for Part B: NATA 2026 Part B is a Computer Adaptive Test — question difficulty changes based on your answers. Practice on platforms that simulate adaptive difficulty to build composure when harder questions appear after a strong early run.

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern FAQs

What is the exam mode for NATA 2026?

NATA 2026 is a hybrid exam. Part A (Drawing & Composition) is an offline pen-and-paper test held at the exam center.

Part B (Aptitude) is an online Computer-Based Adaptive Test. Both parts are conducted on the same exam day, each lasting 90 minutes.

Is there negative marking in NATA 2026?

No, NATA 2026 has no negative marking for any section or question type. A wrong answer in Part B scores zero — not minus marks.

You should attempt every question in Part B, including NCQs where you are uncertain, to avoid missing free mark opportunities.

How many questions are there in NATA 2026?

The source does not specify the total number of questions for NATA 2026.

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern

NATA 2026 has 48 questions in total. Part A has 3 drawing and composition tasks worth 80 marks. Part B has 45 aptitude questions worth 120 marks.

The grand total is 200 marks. The exam is conducted over 180 minutes.

NATA 2026 Total Duration

NATA 2026 is a 3-hour (180-minute) exam. Part A (offline Drawing) runs for 90 minutes. Part B (online Aptitude CBT) runs for another 90 minutes.

Both parts are held on the same exam day. A short break is given in between.

Part A (Drawing) Scoring

Part A drawings are evaluated by expert examiners using structured rubrics. Examiners assess composition, spatial balance, aesthetic sensitivity, proportion, use of color (A1), tonal rendering (A2), and 3D accuracy (A3).

Scores from multiple evaluators are moderated before the final Part A mark is finalized. It is not auto-graded.

NATA 2026 Phases

NATA 2026 has two phases. Phase 1 ran from April 4 to June 13, 2026, across multiple Friday and Saturday exam dates. Phase 2 is scheduled for August 7–8, 2026.

The exam pattern, duration, and marking scheme are identical in both phases.

Attempt Limit

No. NATA 2026 allows only one attempt per year. If you appeared in Phase 1, you are not eligible for Phase 2.

You must choose one phase when you register. Your score from that phase is your final NATA 2026 result.

NATA 2026 Phase 2 Exam Dates

NATA 2026 Phase 2 is scheduled for August 7–8, 2026. The Friday (August 7) slot runs from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM.

Saturday (August 8) has two slots: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM. Results are typically declared within 7 days of the exam date.

Part B Question Types

Part B has two primary question types. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) are worth 2 marks each, with 30 questions. No-Choice Questions (NCQ) are worth 4 marks each, with 15 questions.

The test is delivered as a Computer Adaptive Test. Question difficulty adjusts dynamically based on your previous answers.

Changes in NATA 2026 vs NATA 2025

Key changes in NATA 2026 include:

• Reduction in attempts from 3 to 1 per year
• Introduction of Computer Adaptive Testing in Part B
• Removal of the minimum qualifying score requirement
• Phase 2 scores now reported as raw scores only (no percentile)

The total marks (200), duration (180 minutes), and no negative marking policy remain unchanged.

Score Validity

The NATA 2026 score is valid only for the 2026–27 academic session. You cannot use a 2026 score for admissions in 2025–26 or carry it forward to 2027–28.

Each year’s score applies exclusively to that year’s admission cycle. Students planning admission for 2027–28 must appear in NATA 2027.

NCQ Marking Scheme

NCQ (No-Choice Questions) in Part B carry +4 marks for a correct answer. Wrong or unattempted answers get 0 marks — there is no negative marking.

With 15 NCQs at 4 marks each, this section contributes 60 marks to your total Part B score. It is the single highest-value section per question in the entire exam.

What is NATA 2026?

NATA 2026 is the National Aptitude Test in Architecture. It is a hybrid exam with two parts.

Part A (Drawing & Composition) is an offline pen-and-paper test. Part B (Aptitude) is an online Computer-Based Adaptive Test.

Exam Pattern

NATA 2026 has 48 questions in total. The grand total is 200 marks across 180 minutes.

• Part A: 3 drawing and composition tasks (80 marks)
• Part B: 45 aptitude questions (120 marks)

Part B has two question types:

• 30 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) worth 2 marks each
• 15 No-Choice Questions (NCQ) worth 4 marks each

Exam Duration and Mode

NATA 2026 is a 3-hour (180-minute) exam. Both parts are held on the same exam day with a short break in between.

Marking Scheme

NATA 2026 has no negative marking for any section or question type. A wrong answer in Part B scores zero, not minus marks.

NCQs contribute 60 marks to the total Part B score. This makes them the highest-value questions per item in the exam.

How Part A is Scored

Part A drawings are evaluated by expert examiners using structured rubrics. It is not auto-graded.

Examiners assess composition, spatial balance, aesthetic sensitivity, proportion, use of color (A1), tonal rendering (A2), and 3D accuracy (A3). Scores from multiple evaluators are moderated before the final Part A mark is finalized.

Exam Phases and Dates

NATA 2026 has two phases. The exam pattern, duration, and marking scheme are identical in both phases.

Phase 2 Friday (August 7) slot runs from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Saturday (August 8) has two slots: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM.

Results are typically declared within 7 days of the exam date.

Attempt Limit

NATA 2026 allows only one attempt per year. If you appeared in Phase 1, you are not eligible for Phase 2.

You must choose one phase when you register. Your score from that phase is your final NATA 2026 result.

Score Validity

The NATA 2026 score is valid only for the 2026-27 academic session. You cannot use a 2026 score for admissions in 2025-26 or carry it forward to 2027-28.

Each year's score applies exclusively to that year's admission cycle. Students planning admission for 2027-28 must appear in NATA 2027.

Changes from NATA 2025

Key changes in NATA 2026 include:

• Reduction in attempts from 3 to 1 per year
• Introduction of Computer Adaptive Testing in Part B
• Removal of the minimum qualifying score requirement
• Phase 2 scores now reported as raw scores only (no percentile)

The total marks (200), duration (180 minutes), and no negative marking policy remain unchanged.

NATA Syllabus 2024: Overview

The Council of Architecture (COA) has released the NATA 2024 syllabus at nata.in. The syllabus is based on the 10+2 curriculum and covers Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Drawing, and General Aptitude.

Part A (Drawing Test) and Part B (General Aptitude and PCM) will both be conducted in online mode. Candidates should review the full syllabus to create a precise preparation schedule.

NATA 2024 Exam Pattern

The NATA 2024 exam will be conducted for a duration of 180 minutes. A total of 125 questions will be asked in the question paper for a total mark of 200.

Candidates can download NATA previous year papers to understand the syllabus and expected questions.

Abilities Tested in NATA

The examination will test the following abilities of candidates:

• Diagrammatic Reasoning: Diagrams and scenarios will be used to test logical reasoning ability.
• Numerical Reasoning: Simple problems based on fundamental concepts will be asked to test mathematical ability.
• Verbal Reasoning: Verbal logic ability will be tested.
• Inductive Reasoning: Candidates will be required to see patterns and analyze the provided data.
• Situational Judgment: Problem-solving abilities of candidates will be tested.
• Logical Reasoning: Ability to recognize patterns, sequences, or relationships between shapes and imagery will be tested.
• Abstract Reasoning: General knowledge and ability to utilise knowledge in new situations will be tested.

Questions may also assess basic concepts of Physics, Mathematics, Geometry, Language and interpretation, and elements and principles of design.

NATA Syllabus 2024: Section Wise

Part A: Drawing Test

Part A is a drawing test of 2 hours 15 minutes. It will test the sketching and visualization ability of a candidate.

There is no well-defined syllabus for the drawing test. Candidates can practice using NATA practice papers to improve their skills.

Part B: General Aptitude and PCM Test

Part B of NATA is the General Aptitude and PCM Test. This section tests the candidate's aptitude and mental ability.

PCM section questions will be asked from Class 10 and Class 12. Candidates must brush up on all basic formulas and concepts of Mathematics.

NATA Drawing Syllabus

The drawing test assesses sketching and visualization skills. Candidates should practice regularly to perform well in this section.

NATA Syllabus Overview

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) syllabus covers Drawing, General Aptitude, Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry. The drawing test checks a candidate's sketching ability, creativity, and innovation.

Candidates should practice questions based on the criteria listed below.

• Understanding visual principles in a composition (2D and 3D), such as rhythm, balance, directions, and hierarchy.
• Understanding geometry and the ability to visualize shapes and solve geometrical puzzles to test spatial intelligence.
• Understanding color theory and its terminologies to test color scheme awareness.
• Interpreting visual systems and perception to test graphical similarities and properties.
• Understanding spatial relationships between objects and visualizing images and scenarios.
• Testing cognitive abilities such as perception, attention, recognition, and memory.

NATA Preparation Books for Drawing

These are the recommended books for the NATA drawing section.

NATA General Aptitude Syllabus

The General Aptitude test measures perception, imagination, observation, creativity, and communication along with architectural awareness. Candidates are tested on the criteria given below.

The test covers objects and textures related to architecture and the built environment. It includes interpretation of pictorial compositions and visualizing three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional drawings.

Other topics include visualizing different sides of 3D objects, analytical reasoning, and mental ability in visual, numerical, and verbal forms. It also covers general awareness of national and international architects and famous architectural creations.

Mathematical Reasoning

This section covers statements and logical operations such as and, or, if and only if, implies, and implied by. It includes understanding of tautology, converse, contradiction, and contrapositive.

Sets and Relations

This section covers the idea of sets, subsets, power sets, complement, union, intersection, and difference of sets. It includes Venn diagrams, De Morgan's Laws, and relations with their properties.

Equivalence relations are also covered, including their definition and elementary examples.

NATA Preparation Books for General Aptitude

These are the recommended books for the General Aptitude section.

NATA Maths Syllabus

The Mathematics section tests a candidate's understanding of the subject. The detailed syllabus is given below.

Algebra

This section covers definitions of Arithmetic Progression (A.P.) and Geometric Progression (G.P.). It includes the general term and summation of the first n terms of series ∑n, ∑n², and ∑n³.

Arithmetic and Geometric series, Arithmetic Mean (A.M.), Geometric Mean (G.M.), and their relation are covered. It also includes infinite G.P. series and its sum.

Logarithms

This section covers the definition of logarithms, general properties, and change of base.

Matrices

This section covers concepts of m x n (m ≤ 3, n ≤ 3) real matrices. It includes operations of addition, scalar multiplication, and multiplication of matrices.

Other topics include transpose of a matrix, determinant of a square matrix, and properties of determinants (statement only). It covers minor, cofactor, and adjoint of a matrix, nonsingular matrix, and inverse of a matrix.

Finding the area of a triangle and solutions of systems of linear equations (not more than 3 variables) are also included.

Trigonometry

This section covers trigonometric functions, addition and subtraction formulae, and formulae involving multiple and submultiple angles. It includes the general solution of trigonometric equations.

Properties of triangles and inverse trigonometric functions with their properties are also covered.

Coordinate Geometry

This section covers the distance formula, section formula, area of a triangle, and condition of collinearity of three points in a plane. It includes polar coordinates and transformation from Cartesian to polar coordinates and vice versa.

Other topics include parallel transformation of axes, concept of locus, and elementary locus problems. It covers the slope of a line, equations of lines in different forms, and the angle between two lines.

Conditions of perpendicularity and parallelism of two lines, distance of a point from a line, and distance between two parallel lines are also included.

NATA Mathematics Syllabus

The NATA Mathematics syllabus covers topics from Class 11 and Class 12. The subjects include algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry, calculus, and statistics.

Algebra

Algebra includes sets, operations on sets, and Venn diagrams. It also covers the fundamental laws of algebra.

• Real numbers and their properties
• Complex numbers and their properties
• Polynomials and rational expressions
• Exponents and radicals
• Logarithms and their properties
• Arithmetic, geometric, and harmonic progressions
• Quadratic equations and their roots
• Inequalities and linear programming
• Permutations and combinations
• Binomial theorem

Trigonometry

Trigonometry covers the measurement of angles and trigonometric functions. It includes identities, equations, and properties of triangles.

• Trigonometric ratios and identities
• Trigonometric equations
• Inverse trigonometric functions
• Heights and distances
• Properties of triangles

Coordinate Geometry

Coordinate geometry deals with points, lines, and circles on a plane. It also includes three-dimensional coordinate geometry.

2-Dimensional Coordinate Geometry

Topics include lines through the point of intersection of two lines. The equation of a circle with a given center and radius is covered.

• Condition that a general equation of second degree in x, y may represent a circle
• Equation of a circle in terms of endpoints of a diameter
• Equation of tangent, normal and chord
• Parametric equation of a circle
• Intersection of a line with a circle
• Equation of common chord of two intersecting circles

3-Dimensional Coordinate Geometry

This section covers direction cosines and direction ratios. It also includes the distance between two points and the section formula.

• Equation of a straight line
• Equation of a plane
• Distance of a point from a plane

Theory of Calculus

Calculus theory includes functions, limits, continuity, and derivatives. It also covers integration and differential equations.

• Functions, composition of two functions and inverse of a function
• Limit, continuity, derivative, chain rule
• Derivative of implicit functions and functions defined parametrically
• Integration as a reverse process of differentiation
• Indefinite integral of standard functions
• Integration by parts, substitution and partial fraction
• Definite integral as a limit of a sum with equal subdivisions
• Fundamental theorem of integral calculus and its applications
• Properties of definite integrals
• Formation of ordinary differential equations
• Solution of homogeneous differential equations
• Separation of variables method
• Linear first order differential equations

Application of Calculus

Applications include tangents, normals, and conditions of tangency. It also covers monotonicity, maxima, and minima.

• Differential coefficient as a measure of rate
• Motion in a straight line with constant acceleration
• Geometric interpretation of definite integral as area
• Calculation of area bounded by elementary curves and straight lines
• Area of the region included between two elementary curves

Permutation and Combination

This section covers permutations of n different things taken r at a time (r ≤ n). It also includes permutations of n things not all different.

• Permutation with repetitions (circular permutation excluded)
• Combinations of n different things taken r at a time (r ≤ n)
• Combination of n things not all different
• Basic properties
• Problems involving both permutations and combinations

Statistics and Probability

Statistics covers measures of dispersion, mean, variance, and standard deviation. It also includes frequency distribution.

• Addition and multiplication rules of probability
• Conditional probability and Bayes’ Theorem
• Independence of events
• Repeated independent trails and Binomial distribution

NATA Preparation Books for Mathematics

The following books are recommended for NATA Mathematics preparation.

NATA Physics Syllabus

The NATA Physics syllabus includes questions from electrostatics. It covers electric charges, fields, and electrostatic potential.

• Current electricity, magnetic effects of current and magnetism
• Moving charges and magnetism, magnetism and matter
• Electromagnetic induction and alternating currents
• Optics, ray optics and optical instruments and wave optics
• Dual nature of radiation and matter
• Atoms and nuclei
• Electronic devices - semiconductor electronics, materials, devices and simple circuits

NATA Syllabus 2024 for Chemistry

Questions are mostly asked from basic concepts of Chemistry. The syllabus includes structure of atoms and classification of elements.

Other topics include periodicity in properties and chemical bonding. States of matter, gases and liquids are also covered.

• Chemical thermodynamics, equilibrium, redox reaction
• Hydrogen, s-block elements, p block elements
• Organic chemistry - basic principles and techniques
• Hydrocarbons and environmental chemistry

NATA Exam Pattern 2024

The NATA 2024 exam pattern includes details like mode of exam, duration, and marking scheme. Candidates should check the exam pattern along with the syllabus.

• NATA 2024 comprises two papers - Paper 1 and Paper 2
• Paper 1 has questions from General Aptitude, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry
• Paper 2 includes questions from drawing only
• 1.5 marks are allotted for each correct answer
• No negative marking for unattempted or incorrect answers
• Total duration is 3 hours 15 minutes

NATA 2024 Schedule of Examination

The schedule of the NATA 2024 examination is provided by the conducting body. Candidates must refer to the official notification for exact dates.

NATA Exam Pattern 2024

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is held in two parts on the same day. The total exam duration is 180 minutes, including a break.

The exam is conducted online. Part A is the Drawing Test, and Part B covers Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (PCM) and General Aptitude.

NATA Preparation Tips 2024

Preparation should focus on understanding the exam pattern and practising regularly. Candidates should read all instructions carefully before starting the exam.

• Read the instructions given carefully. There might be some changes in the pattern.
• Never stick on one question. It may lessen your time for the next question. Jump quickly to next questions.
• Attempt the questions which you find easy to crack initially.
• Answer all the questions because there is no negative marking.
• Understand the NATA Exam pattern properly. It saves you from panic when you see your question paper.
• Do take mock tests twice in a week to check how much have you improved.
• Know your strengths and weaknesses.
• After going through your syllabus once, increase the number of mock tests you take.
• Also, nowadays there are test series available online too. Join and strengthen your NATA preparation to crack the exam.

NATA Syllabus 2024 FAQs

Is there any fixed syllabus for NATA 2024?

No, there is no official syllabus released by CoA. However, candidates are advised to take help of previous year question paper to get an idea about the type of questions asked in the entrance exam.

Can you suggest me some reference books for preparation of NATA 2024 exam?

In order to prepare for NATA, Candidates can refer to the following books given below:

• NATA & B.Arch Complete Self Study Material: Entrance Examination by Ar. Shadan Usmani
• A complete Self Study for B.Arch Entrance Examination 2017 by PK Mishra.
• A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by S.Chand
• NATA (B.Arch) Guide Bachelor of Architecture Ent. Exams by GKP

What is the marking scheme of NATA 2024?

The question paper consists of 200 marks against 53 questions. Candidates will be awarded 1.5 marks for each correct answer in PCM and General Aptitude test.

The drawing paper will be rectified by the panel of more than one examiners independently and an average of marks is taken. 2 drawing questions carries 35 marks and 1 drawing question carries 55 marks. There is No negative marking for incorrect answer. However, incase of tie-breaking, wrong answer will be penalized.

Is NATA necessary for Architecture?

NATA is a compulsory exam for the candidates seeking admission into any Architecture college in India (except NITs and IITs).

NATA 2025 Cut Off Overview

The NATA 2025 cut off will be released soon for different colleges. The cut off will be published in the form of opening and closing ranks.

The Council of Architecture released the NATA 2025 results for the May 4 and May 5 papers on its official website. The minimum qualifying marks are 20 marks for Part A and 30 marks for Part B of the paper. This means the overall minimum qualifying marks are 70 out of 200.

Expected Cut Off for 2025

The expected cut off for the general category can be within 80-170, depending on the college. For reserved category groups, the expected cut off can be up to 68.

A score in the range of 120-150 can be considered a good and safe score for admission. Check the list of NATA 2025 participating institutes for more details.

NATA 2025 Qualifying Marks

Candidates appearing in NATA 2025 are required to score a minimum of 40% of the total marks to qualify. This means a candidate needs 70 out of 200 marks.

The official cut off for NATA 2025 will be announced by the Council of Architecture once the exam cycle is over. The cut off will vary based on several factors:

• Number of candidates who appeared for the NATA exam
• The difficulty level of the question paper
• Number of seats available in different campuses
• Candidate's performance in the exam
• Last year's cut off trends

The table below gives the qualifying cut off for NATA 2025.

NATA College-Wise Cutoff 2024

Each college releases a separate category-wise cut off for admission into the B.Arch programme. Admission to top NATA colleges depends on the rank secured by a candidate.

The table below lists the NATA 2024 last round closing ranks for various colleges.

NATA Previous Year Cutoff for Top Colleges

Though the authorities have set the minimum qualifying marks for NATA 2025, each college will release a separate category-wise cut off for admission into the B.Arch programme. Admission to top NATA colleges depends completely on the rank secured by a candidate.

Category-wise cut offs for various top institutes are mentioned below.

CEPT University

The highest cut off of NATA 2020 was published by CEPT University. The category-wise NATA cut off is tabulated below.

NATA Cutoff for CEPT University

CEPT University releases its NATA cutoff in the form of marks. The cutoff varies by category and the board of education.

NATA Cutoff for Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai

Sir JJ College of Architecture releases its cutoff as ranks. The cutoff is listed separately for home university candidates and other candidates.

NATA Cutoff for Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Institute of Technology

Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Institute of Technology releases its NATA cutoff as scores. The cutoff is given category-wise.

NATA Previous Years' Cut off for Participating Institutes

NATA cutoff for participating institutes is released after the admission process. Candidates can check the official cutoff for each institute.

NATA Cut Off 2025 for Gujarat Architecture Colleges

The table below shows the NATA cut off (merit rank) for several architecture colleges in Gujarat. Cut offs are listed category-wise and board-wise.

NATA 2026 Phase 1 Result Declared

The Council of Architecture (CoA) has declared the NATA 2026 Phase 1 result at nata.in. Candidates who appeared in any Phase 1 session between April 4 and June 13, 2026 can log in to the student registration portal and download their scorecard.

The scorecard includes the final percentile score computed across the entire Phase 1 candidate pool. The CoA issues one NATA scorecard per candidate per phase.

What is NATA Result 2026?

The NATA 2026 result is a scorecard issued by the Council of Architecture (CoA), the statutory body that regulates architecture education in India under the Architects Act, 1972. The result carries a raw score and a percentile computed after all Phase 1 sessions close.

The percentile tells a candidate where they stand relative to every other Phase 1 candidate nationwide. Most private architecture colleges and many government colleges accept the NATA score as the primary entrance criterion for B.Arch programmes.

Institutions like IITs, NITs, and SPA Delhi run separate B.Arch admissions through JEE Paper 2 (B.Arch). NATA scores are not used for admission there.

NATA 2026 Result Highlights

• NATA 2026 Phase 1 result is out — scorecard with percentile score is now available on nata.in
• Phase 1 covered rolling exam sessions every Friday and Saturday from April 4 to June 13, 2026
• Scorecard shows Mathematics (/40), General Aptitude (/80), Drawing (/80), total score (/200), and percentile
• No minimum raw score required for 2026 — any non-zero percentile is a valid qualifying NATA 2026 score
• Candidates who appeared in Phase 1 cannot register for Phase 2 (scheduled August 7–8, 2026)
• B.Arch counselling is state-wise and college-wise — there is no central NATA counselling body

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern

NATA tests candidates in three areas. The total score is 200 marks.

NATA 2026 Qualifying Marks and Percentile Score

For the 2026 cycle, the CoA has not set a minimum qualifying raw score. A non-zero percentile counts as a valid NATA 2026 score for B.Arch admissions.

NATA 2026 Important Dates

How to Download NATA Result 2026

Candidates can download the scorecard from the official website nata.in. The direct link to download the NATA result 2026 is available on the portal.

NATA 2026 Scorecard Details

The NATA scorecard shows marks in each section: Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing. It also shows the total score out of 200 and the percentile.

The scorecard is the primary document submitted to architecture colleges that accept NATA scores for B.Arch admissions.

What After NATA 2026 Result?

B.Arch admissions are conducted through state-wise and college-wise merit lists. There is no central NATA counselling body.

Candidates who appeared in Phase 1 cannot register for Phase 2. Phase 2 is only for candidates who did not attempt any Phase 1 session.

NATA 2026 Overview

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is the entrance exam for B.Arch degree programmes across India. The Council of Architecture (CoA) conducts the exam.

NATA Result 2026: Important Dates

Key milestones in the NATA 2026 result cycle are listed below. Upcoming events appear first, followed by completed milestones in order.

Source: NATA 2026 Schedule of Dates — nata.in

NATA Result Previous Year Statistics

The table below tracks NATA participation and result timelines over the past four cycles. Candidate numbers have grown steadily year-on-year.

The qualifying benchmark changed from a raw-score floor (70 marks in 2022–2024, 80 marks in 2025) to a percentile-only system in 2026. More candidates will technically hold a valid NATA score this year. Colleges are expected to respond by raising their own admission cutoffs as competition increases.

The table below shows admission closing scores at two NATA-accepting institutions over the past four years.

Closing scores at these colleges have risen by roughly 12–15 marks over four years. A score above 140 out of 200 gives a realistic chance at CEPT University or Sir J.J. College of Architecture based on recent trends. That bar may climb further in 2026 given the removal of the qualifying floor.

How to Download NATA Result 2026

The NATA 2026 scorecard can be downloaded from the official portal at nata.in. Keep the Application Number and Date of Birth ready before starting — those are the login credentials.

How to Download the NATA 2026 Scorecard

Follow these steps to download the NATA 2026 scorecard from the official website.

1. Go to the official NATA website at nata.in.
2. Click on "Student Registration Portal" or the scorecard download link on the homepage.
3. Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth to log in.
4. On the candidate dashboard, click "Statement of Marks" or "Download Scorecard".
5. The scorecard PDF opens. Download it and save a copy on your device.
6. Cross-check your name, section-wise marks, total score, and percentile before logging out.

If the scorecard does not appear on the dashboard, first confirm that your Phase 1 registration and fee payment were completed successfully. Contact the CoA helpdesk through the official NATA website if the issue continues. Do not share your login credentials with anyone while seeking help.

Frequently Asked Questions about the NATA 2026 Scorecard

What if my NATA 2026 scorecard is not visible on the portal?

Check that your Phase 1 registration was completed and the application fee was paid successfully. If both are confirmed and the scorecard still does not show, contact the Council of Architecture helpdesk via the official contact section on nata.in. Avoid third-party help portals or anyone asking for your login details.

Can I check my NATA 2026 result without logging in?

No. The scorecard is available only through the student registration portal. You must log in with your Application Number and Date of Birth. There is no public roll-number search tool for NATA results.

Is the NATA 2026 scorecard the same as the mark sheet?

Yes. The NATA scorecard, also called the Statement of Marks, is the official document carrying your section-wise marks, total score, and percentile. This is the document you submit to colleges. There is no separate mark sheet issued by the CoA.

Details on the NATA 2026 Scorecard

The NATA 2026 scorecard carries more than just a total score. Check each field carefully before submitting it to colleges.

If you spot any discrepancy — wrong name, incorrect date of birth, or a mismatch in marks — report it to the Council of Architecture through the official portal right away. Do not wait until the counselling stage, as corrections take time and late submissions may affect your admission timeline.

NATA 2026 Qualifying Marks and Percentile Score

The CoA made a significant policy change for 2026: no minimum qualifying raw score has been set. In 2024, candidates needed at least 70 marks out of 200 to qualify. In 2025, that bar went up to 80 marks. For 2026, that raw-score floor is gone — as long as your Phase 1 scorecard shows a non-zero percentile, your NATA 2026 score is technically valid for B.Arch college applications.

Here is how your percentile is calculated. After all Phase 1 sessions close on June 13, 2026, the CoA takes the best raw score from your Phase 1 attempts and calculates your percentile against the full Phase 1 population. A percentile of 80 means you scored better than 80% of all Phase 1 candidates.

Qualifying via NATA and securing a seat are two different things. Individual colleges set their own admission cutoffs, usually far higher than any national qualifying benchmark. A low percentile may make you technically eligible but leave you uncompetitive for most college merit lists.

NATA 2026 Score vs Percentile: Expected Range

The table below shows approximate total score ranges for different percentile bands in NATA 2026. These figures are estimates and change every year based on the candidate pool and exam difficulty.

Score-to-percentile ranges are approximate. They vary year-on-year based on the total candidate pool and difficulty level of exam sessions.

NATA 2026 College-Wise Cutoff

There is no single national NATA cutoff. Each participating college sets its own minimum score for admission, often combining NATA marks with Class 12 results.

Most colleges use a 50:50 formula — 50% weightage to NATA score and 50% to Class 12 aggregate. This varies by institution and state.

The table below gives approximate NATA score ranges at which seats closed at popular NATA-accepting colleges in recent years. These are trend-based figures and will be updated for 2026 once state and college-level counselling rounds conclude.

Cutoff figures are indicative and based on historical admission trends. Official 2026 cutoffs will be published by individual colleges and state counselling bodies after admissions conclude. Always verify on the official college or state counselling website.

As a planning benchmark: a score of 130 and above gives real options across many reputed institutions. A score of 140 and above puts CEPT University, Sir J.J. College, and equivalents within reach.

With 2026 removing the raw-score floor, more candidates are expected to apply to these colleges. Cutoffs may inch upward.

What After NATA 2026 Result?

Once the Phase 1 scorecard is in hand, the admission process is decentralised. Candidates apply to each college or through their state's counselling process.

Here is the step-by-step path from result to seat confirmation.

Step 1 — Download and verify your scorecard

Log in at nata.in and download the scorecard PDF. Double-check the name, marks, and percentile.

Any discrepancy must be flagged to the CoA right away. Do not wait until counselling begins.

Step 2 — Research colleges and state counselling bodies

Different states run their own B.Arch counselling. Maharashtra centralises admissions through the State CET Cell. Gujarat uses ACPC. Karnataka uses COMEDK/KEA for private and government colleges respectively.

Find out which body oversees the colleges you want. Check their specific NATA score requirements and Class 12 weightage.

Step 3 — Register for state/college counselling

Fill application forms on the relevant state counselling portal. Alternatively, apply directly to colleges running their own admission process.

Typically required documents include the NATA scorecard, Class 12 marksheet, identity proof, and a category certificate if applicable.

Step 4 — Attend document verification and seat allotment

After merit lists are published, report for document verification at the allotted college within the deadline. Pay the admission fee to confirm the seat.

Failing to do so by the deadline usually forfeits the allotment.

Step 5 — If your score is lower than your target colleges' cutoffs

If you appeared in Phase 1 but your percentile is not competitive for your preferred institutions, Phase 2 is not an option. The CoA does not allow Phase 1 candidates to sit for Phase 2 under any circumstance.

Two realistic paths remain: apply to colleges where your score is competitive this year, or prepare and reappear for NATA 2027.

NATA 2026 State-wise Counselling Bodies

Admission to B.Arch courses through NATA is handled by each state's own counselling authority. There is no central counselling for NATA.

NATA 2026 Phase 1 Result

Yes, the Council of Architecture (CoA) has declared the NATA 2026 Phase 1 result. The scorecard with percentile score is available on nata.in for all candidates who appeared in any session between April 4 and June 13, 2026.

How to Download NATA 2026 Scorecard

Go to nata.in and open the Student Registration Portal. Log in with your Application Number and Date of Birth.

Click on "Statement of Marks" or "Download Scorecard" on your dashboard to save the PDF.

NATA 2026 Qualifying Score

For 2026, the CoA has not set any minimum qualifying raw score. Any candidate whose Phase 1 scorecard shows a non-zero percentile holds a valid NATA 2026 qualifying score.

This is a change from previous years:

• 2025: minimum was 80 marks out of 200
• 2024: minimum was 70 marks out of 200

NATA 2026 Phase 2 Eligibility

No. The CoA has clearly stated that candidates who appeared in any NATA 2026 Phase 1 session are not eligible to register for Phase 2.

Phase 2 (August 7–8, 2026) is exclusively for candidates who did not attempt Phase 1 at all.

NATA 2026 Counselling Process

No. NATA has no central counselling authority. Each state and college runs its own merit-based admission process.

You need to register separately on the relevant state counselling portal or college portal and submit your NATA scorecard along with your Class 12 marks.

NATA 2026 Scorecard Details

The scorecard shows your candidate name, Application Number, Date of Birth, examination date and session, and marks in each section.

• Mathematics: /40
• General Aptitude: /80
• Drawing: /80
• Total marks: out of 200
• Percentile score
• Qualifying status

NATA 2026 Percentile Calculation

After all Phase 1 sessions end (June 13, 2026), the CoA takes the best raw score from your Phase 1 attempts and calculates your percentile against the full Phase 1 candidate pool.

A percentile of 75 means you scored better than 75% of all candidates who appeared in Phase 1.

NATA Score Required for Admission

Based on past trends, you need roughly 140 or above out of 200 to be competitive at premier NATA-accepting colleges like CEPT University (Ahmedabad) or Sir J.J. College of Architecture (Mumbai).

• Mid-tier government colleges: 115–135 range
• Private colleges: generally start from around 100

This varies significantly by state and institution.

NATA 2026 Phase 2 Schedule

NATA 2026 Phase 2 is scheduled for August 7 and 8, 2026. It is open only to candidates who did not appear in any Phase 1 session.

Phase 2 gives a raw-score scorecard without a percentile. Most top NATA-accepting colleges prefer the percentile-based Phase 1 scorecard for counselling.

NATA 2026 Score Validity

The NATA 2026 score is valid for B.Arch admissions in the 2026–27 academic year. Colleges and state counselling bodies accept scores from the current admission cycle only.

The CoA does not carry forward NATA scores to the following year.

NATA Acceptance at IITs and NITs

No. IITs, NITs, and SPA Delhi admit B.Arch students through JEE Paper 2 (the Architecture Aptitude Test, or AAT, in the case of IITs). NATA scores are not accepted at these institutions.

NATA is primarily accepted by private architecture colleges and many state-government colleges across India.

*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.

NATA 2026 Result and Scorecard

The Council of Architecture (CoA) has declared the NATA 2026 Phase 1 result. The scorecard with percentile score is available on nata.in for all candidates who appeared in any session between April 4 and June 13, 2026.

How to Download the NATA 2026 Scorecard

Go to nata.in and open the Student Registration Portal. Log in with your Application Number and Date of Birth.

Click on "Statement of Marks" or "Download Scorecard" on your dashboard to save the PDF. The scorecard is available only through the student registration portal. There is no public roll-number search tool for NATA results.

What the NATA 2026 Scorecard Contains

The NATA scorecard, also called Statement of Marks, is the official document carrying your section-wise marks, total score, and percentile. This is the document you submit to colleges. There is no separate mark sheet issued by the CoA.

The scorecard shows the following details:

• Candidate name
• Application Number
• Date of Birth
• Examination date and session
• Marks in Mathematics (/40)
• Marks in General Aptitude (/80)
• Marks in Drawing (/80)
• Total marks out of 200
• Percentile score
• Qualifying status

Scorecard Not Visible on the Portal

Check that your Phase 1 registration was completed and the application fee was paid successfully. If both are confirmed and the scorecard still does not show, contact the Council of Architecture helpdesk via the official contact section on nata.in.

Avoid third-party help portals or anyone asking for your login details.

NATA 2026 Qualifying Score

For 2026, the CoA has not set any minimum qualifying raw score. Any candidate whose Phase 1 scorecard shows a non-zero percentile holds a valid NATA 2026 qualifying score.

This is a change from previous years:

How the NATA 2026 Percentile is Calculated

After all Phase 1 sessions end (June 13, 2026), the CoA takes the best raw score from your Phase 1 attempts. It then calculates your percentile against the full Phase 1 candidate pool.

A percentile of 75 means you scored better than 75% of all candidates who appeared in Phase 1.

NATA 2026 Phase 2

NATA 2026 Phase 2 is scheduled for August 7 and 8, 2026. It is open only to candidates who did not appear in any Phase 1 session.

The CoA has clearly stated that candidates who appeared in any NATA 2026 Phase 1 session are not eligible to register for Phase 2. Phase 2 gives a raw-score scorecard without a percentile. Most top NATA-accepting colleges prefer the percentile-based Phase 1 scorecard for counselling.

NATA 2026 Score Validity

The NATA 2026 score is valid for B.Arch admissions in the 2026-27 academic year. Colleges and state counselling bodies accept scores from the current admission cycle only.

The CoA does not carry forward NATA scores to the following year.

Admission Process After NATA 2026

NATA has no central counselling authority. Each state and college runs its own merit-based admission process.

You need to register separately on the relevant state counselling portal or college portal. Submit your NATA scorecard along with your Class 12 marks.

Colleges That Do Not Accept NATA

IITs, NITs, and SPA Delhi admit B.Arch students through JEE Paper 2. The Architecture Aptitude Test (AAT) is used in the case of IITs.

NATA scores are not accepted at these institutions. NATA is primarily accepted by private architecture colleges and many state-government colleges across India.

Expected NATA Scores for College Admission

Based on past trends, you need roughly 140 or above out of 200 to be competitive at leading NATA-accepting colleges like CEPT University (Ahmedabad) or Sir J.J. College of Architecture (Mumbai).

Private college cutoffs vary significantly by state and institution.

Disclaimer: The information on NATA 2026 counselling provided on this page is for general reference and guidance only. Counselling dates, fee structures, reservation percentages, document requirements, and round-wise schedules are notified individually by each state counselling authority and are subject to change without prior notice. Students must refer to the official portal of their respective state counselling authority and the Council of Architecture’s official website at nata.in for authoritative and up-to-date information before taking any admission-related decision.

The NATA Aptitude Sample Paper gives you practice for Part B of the test, the online section that mixes maths, reasoning and architecture questions. Each paper has 50 questions for 120 marks, the same as the real exam, and comes with full worked solutions.

• Part B is taken online and carries 120 marks, and each NATA Aptitude Sample Paper gives you all 50 questions to attempt in one 90-minute sitting.
• The 50 questions are 42 multiple-choice questions and 8 numerical-answer questions, with no negative marking.
• Questions cover Class 11 and 12 maths, visual and logical reasoning, language, design sense and general knowledge of architecture.

NATA Aptitude Sample Paper: Download PDF

How to Solve NATA Aptitude Sample Papers

Part B is an online test that jumps between maths, reasoning and architecture questions, so your practice should get you used to switching topics quickly and typing in numerical answers.

• Sit the full paper at once: Give yourself the full 90 minutes for all 50 questions, and do the maths by hand on rough sheets the way you will in the test.
• Answer the quick ones first: Go through once and clear the visual reasoning, design and general knowledge questions you find fast, before the longer maths sums.
• Practise the numerical-answer type: The 8 numerical-answer questions have no options, so get used to working out an exact number rather than picking a choice.
• Attempt everything: Wrong answers cost nothing, so answer every question even when you are short on time near the end.
• Keep an eye on the clock: With 50 questions in 90 minutes, you have under two minutes per question on average, so do not get stuck on one.
• Check the paper afterwards:
  • See which topics took you the most time.
  • Note the maths and reasoning steps you got wrong so you can revise them.
  • Look up the buildings and terms in the architecture questions you missed.

NATA Aptitude Sample Paper: Importance

The aptitude part rewards quick, accurate work across very different topics, so the only way to get faster is to solve full papers and review every mistake.

• You get used to handling all 50 questions in 90 minutes, which is the real pace of Part B.
• You learn how the paper mixes maths, logical reasoning, visual reasoning and architecture awareness in one sitting.
• You get comfortable with the 8 numerical-answer questions, where you type an exact number instead of choosing an option.
• You find the Class 11 and Class 12 maths chapters that come up most, so your revision stays on track.
• You build speed on the image and figure questions, which is where many students lose time.
• Since there is no negative marking, regular practice helps you decide how to use the last few minutes.

Why Choose Collegedunia's NATA Aptitude Sample Paper

Collegedunia builds each NATA Aptitude Sample Paper to the current Part B structure, so your practice matches the number of questions and the topics you will face online.

• Latest and Accurate: Papers follow the current 120-mark Part B with 50 questions, including the multiple-choice and numerical-answer types.
• Detailed Solutions: Every question comes with full working, so you can see each step, not just the final answer.
• User-Friendly: Each NATA Aptitude Sample Paper PDF downloads in one click and prints clearly for practice.
• Regular Updates: Papers are updated whenever the Council of Architecture changes the pattern or syllabus.
• Free to Download: All NATA Aptitude sample papers with solutions are free, with no sign-up.
• Quality Questions: The maths, reasoning and architecture questions match the level of the real exam.

NATA Aptitude Sample Paper: Understanding the Exam Pattern

The aptitude part is Part B of NATA, worth 120 marks of the total 200 marks. It is an online test of 50 questions in 90 minutes, while the drawing part is done on paper.

Part B has 50 questions (42 multiple-choice and 8 numerical-answer) for 120 marks, the Council of Architecture does not publish a fixed mark per question, and there is no negative marking anywhere in the paper.

Duration: 90 minutes for Part B | Mode: Online (computer-based) | Language: English

NATA Aptitude Sample Paper: Topic-wise Weightage

Knowing which topics fill the 50 questions helps you decide where to spend your time while solving a NATA Aptitude Sample Paper.

Based on the question areas listed for Part B and the structure of the sample papers. The Council of Architecture does not officially release topic-wise weightage.

Mistakes to Avoid While Solving Sample Papers

Most students practise maths and reasoning on their own and never solve the full mixed paper, which is what makes the real Part B feel scattered.

• Getting stuck on one long maths question and running out of time for easier marks later.
• Skipping the rough work and then making small slips in the numerical-answer questions.
• Ignoring the visual reasoning and architecture questions, which give steady marks and are quicker than long sums.
• Leaving the numerical-answer type for the real exam instead of practising typing exact numbers.
• Practising only old questions and missing newer types like match the following and numerical answer.
• Not reviewing solved papers, so the same maths and reasoning mistakes happen again on the real day.

FAQs

The NATA Drawing Sample Paper lets you practise the hand-drawing part of the test, where you sketch, compose a scene and show a 3D idea on paper. These papers follow the three drawing tasks of Part A, and each one comes with a sample drawing sheet so you can compare your work.

• Part A of NATA carries 80 marks for three drawing tasks, and each NATA Drawing Sample Paper gives you all three to attempt in one 90-minute sitting.
• The three tasks are Composition and Colour (25 marks), Sketching and Composition in black and white (25 marks), and 3D Composition (30 marks).
• Your drawing is judged on how neat, well-composed and clear it is, and there is no negative marking, so every part you draw can earn marks.

NATA Drawing Sample Paper: Download PDF

How to Solve NATA Drawing Sample Papers

The drawing part is done by hand on paper, so the only way to get faster and neater is to sit and draw full papers under the clock, not just read about them.

• Set up like the real test: Keep a pencil, an eraser, a sharpener, a 15 cm scale and dry colours ready, and give yourself the full 90 minutes for the three tasks.
• Split the time across three tasks: Plan for about 30 minutes on each, giving the 30-mark 3D Composition a little extra since it carries the most.
• Read the question and plan first: Spend a minute deciding your layout and where the main objects go before you start drawing, so the page does not look crowded on one side.
• Build the drawing in order: Light outline first, then the main shapes, then shading and colour, so you can fix the proportions before adding detail.
• Finish every task: A half-finished 3D drawing loses easy marks, so leave enough time to complete all three rather than over-polishing the first one.
• Check your sheet against the sample:
  • Compare the proportions of your objects with the sample drawing.
  • See whether your shading shows light and shadow clearly.
  • Look at whether your composition fills the page in a balanced way.

NATA Drawing Sample Paper: Importance

You cannot revise drawing the night before the exam, so steady practice on full papers is the only way to build speed and a steady hand for the three tasks.

• You get used to handling all three drawing tasks in one 90-minute sitting, which is exactly what Part A asks of you.
• You learn to draw in proportion and to shade for light and shadow, which is where marks are won or lost.
• You build a sense of composition, so your page looks balanced instead of crowded in one corner.
• You get comfortable with 3D drawing, the 30-mark task that many students find the hardest.
• You learn to use colour neatly under time pressure, without smudging or going over the lines.
• Since drawing is judged on quality and there is no negative marking, regular practice steadily raises the marks you can expect.

Why Choose Collegedunia's NATA Drawing Sample Paper

Collegedunia builds each NATA Drawing Sample Paper around the current Part A tasks, so your practice stays close to what you will actually draw on exam day.

• Latest and Accurate: Papers follow the current 80-mark Part A with its three tasks, Composition and Colour, Sketching, and 3D Composition.
• Sample Drawing Sheets: Every paper comes with a model drawing for each task, so you can see what a strong answer looks like.
• User-Friendly: Each NATA Drawing Sample Paper PDF downloads in one click and prints clearly on plain sheets for practice.
• Regular Updates: Papers are updated whenever the Council of Architecture changes the drawing tasks or the marks.
• Free to Download: All NATA Drawing sample papers are free, with no sign-up.
• Quality Questions: The drawing tasks match the level and style of the real Part A.

NATA Drawing Sample Paper: Understanding the Exam Pattern

The drawing part is Part A of NATA, worth 80 marks of the total 200 marks. It is done on paper in 90 minutes, while the aptitude part is taken online.

The three drawing tasks carry 25, 25 and 30 marks, your work is judged on how neat and clear it is, and there is no negative marking anywhere in the paper.

Duration: 90 minutes for Part A | Mode: On paper (offline) | Language: English

NATA Drawing Sample Paper: Topic-wise Weightage

Knowing how the 80 marks are split across the three tasks helps you plan how long to spend on each while solving a NATA Drawing Sample Paper.

Based on the current NATA Part A structure. The Council of Architecture sets three drawing tasks worth 80 marks each year.

Mistakes to Avoid While Solving Sample Papers

Most students practise one or two drawings at a time and never sit the full three-task paper, which is what makes the real Part A feel rushed.

• Spending too long on the first task and then rushing the 30-mark 3D Composition at the end.
• Starting to draw without a quick plan, so the page ends up crowded on one side.
• Pressing too hard with the pencil early on, which makes outlines hard to fix later.
• Leaving shading and colour for the last minute, so the work looks flat or smudged.
• Ignoring proportion, which is one of the first things the drawing is judged on.
• Not comparing your sheet with the sample drawing, so the same mistakes repeat on the real day.

FAQs

Previous Year NATA Exam Dates (2022–2025)

NATA’s exam format has changed substantially over the past five years — from fixed single-day tests in 2022 and 2023 to a rolling weekly-slot model from 2024 onwards. The table below traces each year’s Phase 1 and Phase 2 dates in descending year order.

Three patterns emerge from this data: (1) Phase 1 start dates have moved progressively earlier — from June 2022 to March/April in recent cycles. (2) Phase 2 has consistently fallen in July–August; the August 7, 2026 Phase 2 date mirrors NATA’s own August 7, 2022 Test 3 exactly. (3) CoA transitioned from a three-test model with fixed single-day dates (2022–2023) to a two-phase model with a rolling weekly-slot Phase 1 from 2024, trading format rigidity for scheduling flexibility.

NATA Preparation 2024 FAQs

Ques: What is NATA syllabus?

Ans: NATA syllabus 2024 includes topics such as mathematics, general aptitude, and drawing. It covers areas like algebra, trigonometry, analytical reasoning, visual perception, architectural awareness, and more.

Ques: Is coaching necessary for NATA 2024 preparation?

Ans: Coaching is not mandatory for NATA preparation. However, it can provide guidance, structured study material, and practice tests to help candidates prepare effectively. Self-study and practicing previous years' question papers can also be helpful.

Ques: What is NATA exam pattern?

Ans: NATA consists of two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A is a drawing and sketching section conducted offline, while Part B is an online section consisting of multiple-choice questions on aesthetic sensitivity and architectural awareness.