NID Syllabus 2025: In-Depth NID Syllabus Breakdown for B.Des and M.Des Programs

Author : Palak Khanna

Updated On : April 15, 2024

SHARE

Summary: The NID Syllabus 2025 is available for both the B. Des and M. Des programs in this article. The syllabus is based on papers from previous years. 

The National Institute of Design does not officially prescribe the NID exam syllabus. However, by analysing previous year's papers, our experts from the Creative Edge team have provided essential topics that need to be studied for the examination. 

Your preparations can have a better direction with the knowledge of the NID Syllabus 2025 and the marks allotted for each section.

Even without emphasizing much, you understand the importance of solving sample papers; the same goes for the syllabus.

The preparation process is further simplified if you know what to focus on to crack the exams with excellent scores.

With no further delay, let's dive into the detailed information about the NID admission test syllabus and the best books to ace your preparation.

NOTE: Above video explains NID 2024 Syllabus. The Brochure for NID 2025 will be out in October 2025. We expect minimum changes in it.

As per the NID 2024 brochure, NID Entrance Exam Pattern is as follows - 

The entrance exam is conducted in 2 stages for both NID B.Des and M.Des programs. 

  • NID DAT Prelims
  • NID DAT Mains

There are two sections included in the Prelims exam, i.e., 

  • Creative Ability Test (CAT) 
  • General Aptitude Test (GAT) 

The prelims examination is a pen and paper-based written test. 

In the Mains exam,there will be a - 

  • Studio test and 
  • Personal interview 

NID Syllabus 2025 PDF Download (BDes & MDes)

The syllabus varies for prelims and main exams. You can check the detailed syllabus in the post below.

Check the NID GK syllabus and start your sectional practice. 

Practice with: NID Mock Tests Series 2025

NID Prelims Exam Syllabus 2025 for B.Des

  • The B. Des prelims exam is conducted for 100 marks, out of which the marks for objective and subjective are divided.
  • The total time duration of the exam is 3 hours.

The below table shows the NID UG entrance exam syllabus for B.Des & GDPD NID DAT Prelims exam.

NID Prelims CAT Syllabus - BDes
Design Outline Colour Terminology Inspiration & Design Development
Elements & Principles Of Design Design Theory Mood, Theme & Colour Inter-relationship
Geometrical Form Colour, Pattern & Texture Innovation in Design
Principles of Composition Lettering Optical Illusion Understanding Light & Shade
Form & Function Colour Psychology & Optical Illusions Design Awareness
Drawing Fundamentals Creative thinking & writing Picture Analysis
Visual Logic Good Design vs Bad Design Theme Development
Use of Measurements, Scale & Proportions Developing Themes & Colour Associations Foreshortening & Perspective
3D Visualization Inspiration & Creativity Ornaments & Motifs
Memory Drawing Usage of Colour in Compositions Expression & Emotion
Exercises on imagination Lateral Thinking Story Pictures
Graphics & Pictograms Imagination & Doodling Presentation Techniques

NID Mock Test Series

NID Mock Test Series

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus - BDes
Ratio & Proportion, Percentage Direction Sense Reading Comprehension (Passages)
Profit & Loss, Interest Series Completion Error Detection
Averages, Speed, Time & Distance Seating Arrangement Statement Conclusion
Mixture And Allegation, Work & Time Arithmetic Reasoning Para Jumble
Numbers System Clocks And Calendar Cloze Test
Area, Volume & Surface Area Blood Relations Synonyms/Antonyms
Permutations & Combinations, Probability Character Puzzle Singular/Plural
Sets, Relations & Functions Venn Diagrams Painter & Paintings
Quadratic Equations And Complex Numbers Series, Paper Folding, Grouping Of Images Indian Textile Craft
Determinants And Matrices Analogy, Mirror Images, Pattern Completion, Paper Cutting Current Affairs
Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Statistics Dot Situation, Cube And Dice, World Heritage Sites
Musicians & Instruments Figure Matrix, Indian Geography

For better preparations, refer to the NID entrance exam syllabus pdf for every campus, for example, the NID Ahmedabad syllabus / NID Ahmedabad entrance exam syllabus, and start your preparations. 

NID B.Des Entrance Exam Syllabus: Studio Test

  • This is the second stage of the NID DAT Exam.
  • The studio test includes different formats of questions like Drawing, Sketching, and Model Making.

NID DAT Prelims Syllabus is provided below:

NID DAT Mains Syllabus – BDes.
Material Manipulation Model Making Doodling
Ideation Audio – Visual Exercises Story building
Creative Thinking Portfolio Personal Interview

NID Syllabus 2025: M.Des

As mentioned above, the postgraduate program entrance examination also includes prelims and mains. 

The NID MDes Prelims examination includes:

  • Design Aptitude Test  
  • Discipline-Specific Test 
  • Genral Aptitude Test 

Learn more: How is Life at NID?

The NID MDes Mains examination includes:

  • Studio test
  • Personal interview

Refer: NID Interview Questions with Answers

Upon qualifying for both stages, you will be shortlisted for the final merit list. Check the NID DAT MDes syllabus and NID BDes entrance exam syllabus before preparing. 

Look at the table below to learn the NID Syllabus for the preliminary exam of the M.Des course.

Practicing NID Sample Papers will help you get a fair idea about the difficulty level and type of questions asked on these topics.

NID Mains CAT Syllabus – MDes.
Design Outline Colour Terminology Inspiration & Design Development
Elements & Principles Of Design Design Theory Mood, Theme & Colour Inter-relationship
Geometrical Form Colour, Pattern & Texture Innovation in Design
Principles of Composition Lettering Optical Illusion Understanding Light & Shade
Form & Function Colour Psychology & Optical Illusions Design Awareness
Drawing Fundamentals Creative thinking & writing Picture Analysis
Visual Logic Good Design vs Bad Design Theme Development
Use of Measurements, Scale & Proportions Developing Themes & Colour Associations Foreshortening & Perspective
3D Visualization Inspiration & Creativity Ornaments & Motifs
Memory Drawing Usage of Colour in Compositions Expression & Emotion
Exercises on imagination Lateral Thinking Story Pictures
Graphics & Pictograms Imagination & Doodling Presentation Techniques

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus MDes. 

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus - MDes
Ratio & Proportion, Percentage Direction Sense Reading Comprehension (Passages)
Profit & Loss, Interest Series Completion Error Detection
Averages, Speed, Time & Distance Seating Arrangement Statement Conclusion
Mixture And Allegation, Work & Time Arithmetic Reasoning Para Jumble
Numbers System Clocks And Calendar Cloze Test
Area, Volume & Surface Area Blood Relations Synonyms/Antonyms
Permutations & Combinations, Probability Character Puzzle Singular/Plural
Sets, Relations & Functions Venn Diagrams Painter & Paintings
Quadratic Equations And Complex Numbers Series, Paper Folding, Grouping Of Images Indian Textile Craft
Determinants And Matrices Analogy, Mirror Images, Pattern Completion, Paper Cutting Current Affairs
Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Statistics Dot Situation, Cube And Dice, World Heritage Sites
Musicians & Instruments Figure Matrix, Indian Geography

NID DAT Mains 2025 (for M.Des) 

  • You must score above the prelims exam cut-off to get shortlisted for the NID DAT Mains exam. 
  • This stage comprises studio tests and interviews conducted by the exam authorities. 
  • In the studio test, you are given practical assignments that must be completed on time.  

NID Final Result 

  • The authorities prepare the final merit list based on your performance in prelims and mains. 
  • You will be offered admission at different NIDs across India if you qualify in all the exam stages. 

You might want to check out NID Interview Questions with Answers 

NID MDes Mains Syllabus 2025 

The below table shows the list of topics to be studied for the Studio Test of M.Des program.

You can follow the expert Preparation Tips for NID to score good marks in the studio test. 

The NID exam syllabus is as follows:

Model Making Doodling How to evolve ideas
Audio – Visual Exercises Material Manipulation Creative Thinking

Learn more: How to prepare for NID Studio Test 2025?

NID Online Coaching

NID Online Coaching

Which are the best books for NID Entrance Exam 2025?

To enhance exam preparation, you must make sure to refer to the right books that are as per the latest syllabus.

Here is the list of best NID Preparation Books recommended by toppers and experts for better NID syllabus 2025 preparations and results.

Book Name Author
Creative Edge NID Study Material Creative Edge
Basic Rendering Robert W.Gill
Design drawing Francis D.K.Ching
NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide RPH Editorial Board

Stay updated: NID Exam Latest News

How can CreativeEdge benefit you in your NID Preparation 2025?

Creative Edge, a TopRankers initiative, is one of the top online NID coaching centres. Here, we make your NID preparation more fun and easier to process. We help you to shape your skills and nourish your qualities to excel in the exam. 

  • Live Classes + Recorded Lectures 
  • Physical / Digital Study Material 
  • Personalized Mentorship 
  • Live Doubt Clearance classes 
  • Regular Topic Tests & Drawing Assignments 
  • Full-length Mock Tests with Video Solution 
  • Biggest & Best Academic Faculty team for your Preparations 
  • College Counselling Assistance

Bosst your NID 2025 Exam Preparation: NID 2025 Online Coaching

Conclusion

The NID syllabus 2025 is an invaluable resource for students seeking to expand their knowledge, refine their design skills and obtain excellent scores in the entrance exam. 

Its emphasis on design theory, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving allows students to explore their creative potential and enhance their design skills.

Refer: Design Thinking Awareness Questions and Answers PDF


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NID DAT Syllabus 2025?

Is the NID Entrance Exam Syllabus 2025 same for B. Des and M. Des?

What are the important topics under NID DAT Entrance Exam Syllabus 2025?

What are the best books for preparation of NID Syllabus?

What is the syllabus for NID studio test?

Does NID Entrance Syllabus varies every year?

Where do I find NID Syllabus related Sample Papers?

Does the NID Entrance Exam Syllabus stay the same every year?

NID Syllabus 2025: In-Depth NID Syllabus Breakdown for B.Des and M.Des Programs

Author : Palak Khanna

April 15, 2024

SHARE

Summary: The NID Syllabus 2025 is available for both the B. Des and M. Des programs in this article. The syllabus is based on papers from previous years. 

The National Institute of Design does not officially prescribe the NID exam syllabus. However, by analysing previous year's papers, our experts from the Creative Edge team have provided essential topics that need to be studied for the examination. 

Your preparations can have a better direction with the knowledge of the NID Syllabus 2025 and the marks allotted for each section.

Even without emphasizing much, you understand the importance of solving sample papers; the same goes for the syllabus.

The preparation process is further simplified if you know what to focus on to crack the exams with excellent scores.

With no further delay, let's dive into the detailed information about the NID admission test syllabus and the best books to ace your preparation.

NOTE: Above video explains NID 2024 Syllabus. The Brochure for NID 2025 will be out in October 2025. We expect minimum changes in it.

As per the NID 2024 brochure, NID Entrance Exam Pattern is as follows - 

The entrance exam is conducted in 2 stages for both NID B.Des and M.Des programs. 

  • NID DAT Prelims
  • NID DAT Mains

There are two sections included in the Prelims exam, i.e., 

  • Creative Ability Test (CAT) 
  • General Aptitude Test (GAT) 

The prelims examination is a pen and paper-based written test. 

In the Mains exam,there will be a - 

  • Studio test and 
  • Personal interview 

NID Syllabus 2025 PDF Download (BDes & MDes)

The syllabus varies for prelims and main exams. You can check the detailed syllabus in the post below.

Check the NID GK syllabus and start your sectional practice. 

Practice with: NID Mock Tests Series 2025

NID Prelims Exam Syllabus 2025 for B.Des

  • The B. Des prelims exam is conducted for 100 marks, out of which the marks for objective and subjective are divided.
  • The total time duration of the exam is 3 hours.

The below table shows the NID UG entrance exam syllabus for B.Des & GDPD NID DAT Prelims exam.

NID Prelims CAT Syllabus - BDes
Design Outline Colour Terminology Inspiration & Design Development
Elements & Principles Of Design Design Theory Mood, Theme & Colour Inter-relationship
Geometrical Form Colour, Pattern & Texture Innovation in Design
Principles of Composition Lettering Optical Illusion Understanding Light & Shade
Form & Function Colour Psychology & Optical Illusions Design Awareness
Drawing Fundamentals Creative thinking & writing Picture Analysis
Visual Logic Good Design vs Bad Design Theme Development
Use of Measurements, Scale & Proportions Developing Themes & Colour Associations Foreshortening & Perspective
3D Visualization Inspiration & Creativity Ornaments & Motifs
Memory Drawing Usage of Colour in Compositions Expression & Emotion
Exercises on imagination Lateral Thinking Story Pictures
Graphics & Pictograms Imagination & Doodling Presentation Techniques

NID Mock Test Series

NID Mock Test Series

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus - BDes
Ratio & Proportion, Percentage Direction Sense Reading Comprehension (Passages)
Profit & Loss, Interest Series Completion Error Detection
Averages, Speed, Time & Distance Seating Arrangement Statement Conclusion
Mixture And Allegation, Work & Time Arithmetic Reasoning Para Jumble
Numbers System Clocks And Calendar Cloze Test
Area, Volume & Surface Area Blood Relations Synonyms/Antonyms
Permutations & Combinations, Probability Character Puzzle Singular/Plural
Sets, Relations & Functions Venn Diagrams Painter & Paintings
Quadratic Equations And Complex Numbers Series, Paper Folding, Grouping Of Images Indian Textile Craft
Determinants And Matrices Analogy, Mirror Images, Pattern Completion, Paper Cutting Current Affairs
Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Statistics Dot Situation, Cube And Dice, World Heritage Sites
Musicians & Instruments Figure Matrix, Indian Geography

For better preparations, refer to the NID entrance exam syllabus pdf for every campus, for example, the NID Ahmedabad syllabus / NID Ahmedabad entrance exam syllabus, and start your preparations. 

NID B.Des Entrance Exam Syllabus: Studio Test

  • This is the second stage of the NID DAT Exam.
  • The studio test includes different formats of questions like Drawing, Sketching, and Model Making.

NID DAT Prelims Syllabus is provided below:

NID DAT Mains Syllabus – BDes.
Material Manipulation Model Making Doodling
Ideation Audio – Visual Exercises Story building
Creative Thinking Portfolio Personal Interview

NID Syllabus 2025: M.Des

As mentioned above, the postgraduate program entrance examination also includes prelims and mains. 

The NID MDes Prelims examination includes:

  • Design Aptitude Test  
  • Discipline-Specific Test 
  • Genral Aptitude Test 

Learn more: How is Life at NID?

The NID MDes Mains examination includes:

  • Studio test
  • Personal interview

Refer: NID Interview Questions with Answers

Upon qualifying for both stages, you will be shortlisted for the final merit list. Check the NID DAT MDes syllabus and NID BDes entrance exam syllabus before preparing. 

Look at the table below to learn the NID Syllabus for the preliminary exam of the M.Des course.

Practicing NID Sample Papers will help you get a fair idea about the difficulty level and type of questions asked on these topics.

NID Mains CAT Syllabus – MDes.
Design Outline Colour Terminology Inspiration & Design Development
Elements & Principles Of Design Design Theory Mood, Theme & Colour Inter-relationship
Geometrical Form Colour, Pattern & Texture Innovation in Design
Principles of Composition Lettering Optical Illusion Understanding Light & Shade
Form & Function Colour Psychology & Optical Illusions Design Awareness
Drawing Fundamentals Creative thinking & writing Picture Analysis
Visual Logic Good Design vs Bad Design Theme Development
Use of Measurements, Scale & Proportions Developing Themes & Colour Associations Foreshortening & Perspective
3D Visualization Inspiration & Creativity Ornaments & Motifs
Memory Drawing Usage of Colour in Compositions Expression & Emotion
Exercises on imagination Lateral Thinking Story Pictures
Graphics & Pictograms Imagination & Doodling Presentation Techniques

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus MDes. 

NID Prelims GAT Syllabus - MDes
Ratio & Proportion, Percentage Direction Sense Reading Comprehension (Passages)
Profit & Loss, Interest Series Completion Error Detection
Averages, Speed, Time & Distance Seating Arrangement Statement Conclusion
Mixture And Allegation, Work & Time Arithmetic Reasoning Para Jumble
Numbers System Clocks And Calendar Cloze Test
Area, Volume & Surface Area Blood Relations Synonyms/Antonyms
Permutations & Combinations, Probability Character Puzzle Singular/Plural
Sets, Relations & Functions Venn Diagrams Painter & Paintings
Quadratic Equations And Complex Numbers Series, Paper Folding, Grouping Of Images Indian Textile Craft
Determinants And Matrices Analogy, Mirror Images, Pattern Completion, Paper Cutting Current Affairs
Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Statistics Dot Situation, Cube And Dice, World Heritage Sites
Musicians & Instruments Figure Matrix, Indian Geography

NID DAT Mains 2025 (for M.Des) 

  • You must score above the prelims exam cut-off to get shortlisted for the NID DAT Mains exam. 
  • This stage comprises studio tests and interviews conducted by the exam authorities. 
  • In the studio test, you are given practical assignments that must be completed on time.  

NID Final Result 

  • The authorities prepare the final merit list based on your performance in prelims and mains. 
  • You will be offered admission at different NIDs across India if you qualify in all the exam stages. 

You might want to check out NID Interview Questions with Answers 

NID MDes Mains Syllabus 2025 

The below table shows the list of topics to be studied for the Studio Test of M.Des program.

You can follow the expert Preparation Tips for NID to score good marks in the studio test. 

The NID exam syllabus is as follows:

Model Making Doodling How to evolve ideas
Audio – Visual Exercises Material Manipulation Creative Thinking

Learn more: How to prepare for NID Studio Test 2025?

NID Online Coaching

NID Online Coaching

Which are the best books for NID Entrance Exam 2025?

To enhance exam preparation, you must make sure to refer to the right books that are as per the latest syllabus.

Here is the list of best NID Preparation Books recommended by toppers and experts for better NID syllabus 2025 preparations and results.

Book Name Author
Creative Edge NID Study Material Creative Edge
Basic Rendering Robert W.Gill
Design drawing Francis D.K.Ching
NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide RPH Editorial Board

Stay updated: NID Exam Latest News

How can CreativeEdge benefit you in your NID Preparation 2025?

Creative Edge, a TopRankers initiative, is one of the top online NID coaching centres. Here, we make your NID preparation more fun and easier to process. We help you to shape your skills and nourish your qualities to excel in the exam. 

  • Live Classes + Recorded Lectures 
  • Physical / Digital Study Material 
  • Personalized Mentorship 
  • Live Doubt Clearance classes 
  • Regular Topic Tests & Drawing Assignments 
  • Full-length Mock Tests with Video Solution 
  • Biggest & Best Academic Faculty team for your Preparations 
  • College Counselling Assistance

Bosst your NID 2025 Exam Preparation: NID 2025 Online Coaching

Conclusion

The NID syllabus 2025 is an invaluable resource for students seeking to expand their knowledge, refine their design skills and obtain excellent scores in the entrance exam. 

Its emphasis on design theory, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving allows students to explore their creative potential and enhance their design skills.

Refer: Design Thinking Awareness Questions and Answers PDF


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NID DAT Syllabus 2025?

Is the NID Entrance Exam Syllabus 2025 same for B. Des and M. Des?

What are the important topics under NID DAT Entrance Exam Syllabus 2025?

What are the best books for preparation of NID Syllabus?

What is the syllabus for NID studio test?

Does NID Entrance Syllabus varies every year?

Where do I find NID Syllabus related Sample Papers?

Does the NID Entrance Exam Syllabus stay the same every year?

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