The National Testing Agency (NTA) has once again extended the registration deadline for the NIFT Entrance Examination 2026 (NIFTEE 2026). Candidates seeking admission to Bachelor of Design (BDes) and Master of Design (MDes) programmes now have time till January 16, 2026, to submit their application forms.

The deadline extension has been provided to ensure that more aspirants get an opportunity to complete the application process without last-minute difficulties. Earlier, the registration deadline had already been extended twice.

Revised Schedule for NIFT 2026

• Last date to apply (without late fee): January 16, 2026

• Last date for fee payment: January 17, 2026

• Late application window: January 17 to January 19, 2026

  • A late fee of ₹5,000 will be applicable

• Application correction window: January 20 to January 21, 2026

During the correction period, candidates will be allowed to edit specific details in their application forms.

NIFT 2026 Application Fee

• General / OBC-NCL / EWS: ₹3,000

• SC / ST / PwD / Female candidates: ₹750

• Single paper option:

  • ₹2,000 for General category

  • ₹500 for SC/ST/PwD candidates

Expansion of Exam Centres

For NIFT 2026, the NTA has added new examination cities, increasing the total number of exam centres to 102 across the country. The move aims to improve accessibility and reduce travel inconvenience for candidates.

Admission Through NIFT 2026

NIFT 2026 is conducted for admission to undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes offered by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campuses across India.

• BDes & BFTech: Selection through Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT) followed by a Situation Test

• MDes: Selection through CAT and GAT, followed by a Personal Interview

• PhD programmes: Written test followed by Research Proposal Presentation and Interview

Important Advice for Aspirants

Candidates are advised to complete their registrations well before the revised deadline to avoid technical issues. Applicants should also carefully review all details before final submission and make use of the correction window if needed.

The repeated extension of the registration deadline highlights the authority’s intent to ensure maximum participation in one of India’s most prestigious fashion and design entrance examinations.