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Article NATA Exam 2026 – Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Registration & Preparation Tips

NATA Exam 2026 – Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Registration & Preparation Tips

NATA Exam 2026 – Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Registration & Preparation Tips

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NATA 2026 Overview

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission into B.Arch (Bachelor of Architecture) programs across India. Every year, thousands of aspirants appear for NATA to get into top architecture colleges. The exam evaluates drawing, observation, critical thinking, and aesthetic sensitivity, which are essential skills for future architects.

Particulars Details
Exam Name NATA 2026 (National Aptitude Test in Architecture)
Conducting Body Council of Architecture (CoA)
Exam Mode Online (Computer-Based Test)
Frequency 3 Attempts (April, June, and July 2026 – Tentative)
Courses Offered B.Arch (Bachelor of Architecture)
Official Website www.nata.in

NATA 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

Event Tentative Date
NATA 2026 Notification Release February 2026
NATA 2026 Registration Start February 2026
Last Date to Apply March 2026
Admit Card Release April 2026
NATA 2026 Test 1 April 2026
NATA 2026 Test 2 June 2026
NATA 2026 Test 3 July 2026
Result Declaration 3–5 days after each test

Note: Students can appear for one, two, or all three attempts, and the best score will be considered for admission.

NATA 2026 Application Form

  • Application form will be available online at nata.in.
  • Candidates need to register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
  • Upload documents:
    • Recent passport-size photo
    • Signature (scanned)
  • Pay the application fee via debit/credit card or net banking.

Expected Application Fee (2026)

Category Single Attempt Two Attempts Three Attempts
General/OBC Rs.2,000 Rs.4,000 Rs.5,500
SC/ST/PwD Rs.1,500 Rs.3,000 Rs.4,000

NATA 2026 Eligibility Criteria

  • Academic Qualification: Candidates must have passed or appeared in 10+2 with Mathematics as a compulsory subject. (Some colleges prefer Physics + Maths; check college-specific criteria.)
  • Minimum Marks: Typically 50% aggregate in 10+2 or equivalent.
  • Age Limit: No specific age limit.
  • Attempt Limit: No restriction, candidates can appear in all three tests in one year.

Important: Always verify college-specific eligibility and minimum qualifying marks on the college admission page before applying.

NATA 2026 Exam Pattern

Below is an indicative pattern based on previous years. Confirm final details from CoA's official notification.

Section Number of Questions Marks Type
Cognitive Skills (Diagrammatic Reasoning, Visualization, etc.) 20–25 75–100 Objective
General Aptitude & Logical Reasoning 20–25 75–100 Objective
Drawing & Observation-Based Questions 10–15 50–75 Descriptive / Visual

Total Marks: 200   |   Duration: 3 Hours   |   Mode: Online (with interactive drawing questions).

NATA 2026 Syllabus

The NATA 2026 syllabus evaluates both analytical and creative abilities:

1. General Aptitude

  • Analytical reasoning
  • Mathematics (Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry)
  • General knowledge of architecture

2. Drawing Section

  • Composition and color sense
  • Geometric form drawing
  • 2D/3D visualization
  • Perspective and scale understanding

3. Cognitive Skills

  • Visual memory
  • Spatial ability
  • Logical reasoning

NATA 2026 Preparation Tips

  • Start Early: Begin at least 6–8 months before the exam.
  • Study Material: Refer to ADA Classes’ NATA study material and previous year papers.
  • Practice Drawing Daily: Focus on perspective, shading, and proportion.
  • Take Mock Tests: Attempt full-length online mocks under timed conditions.
  • Join Expert Guidance: Coaching from experienced faculty helps you master both creative and technical parts efficiently.

ADA Classes offers:

  • Live & offline batches
  • 3-month crash course
  • Online test series
  • Personalized portfolio support

Ready to start? ADA Classes offers structured NATA coaching, mock tests and portfolio mentoring to help you score higher.

View Courses Contact Us

NATA Exam 2026 Centers

NATA 2026 will be conducted in major cities across India, including:

Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Patna, and many more. Candidates can select their preferred test city while filling the application form.

Conclusion

The NATA Exam 2026 is your gateway to top architecture colleges in India. A well-planned preparation strategy, the right study material, and consistent practice are key to achieving success. If you’re planning to appear for NATA 2026, ADA Classes offers India’s leading coaching with proven results in NATA & JEE B.Arch.

Enroll now for NATA 2026 Coaching at ADA Classes
Delhi | Kolkata | Lucknow | Jaipur | Online Batches Available

FAQs on NATA Exam 2026

1. What is the NATA Exam 2026 conducted for?

NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) 2026 is conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission into B.Arch (Bachelor of Architecture) programs across India. It tests a student’s drawing, observation, and design aptitude essential for becoming an architect.

2. Who is eligible to apply for NATA 2026?

Students who have passed or are appearing in 10+2 (Class 12) with Mathematics as a compulsory subject are eligible. They should also secure at least 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 or equivalent.

3. How many times will NATA 2026 be conducted?

NATA 2026 is expected to be conducted three times - in April, June, and July 2026 (tentatively). Candidates can appear for one, two, or all three attempts. The best score among attempts is considered for admission.

4. What is the exam pattern for NATA 2026?

NATA 2026 is a computer-based online test carrying 200 marks. It includes questions from: General Aptitude & Logical Reasoning; Drawing and Visualization; Cognitive Skills & Analytical Thinking. The duration of the exam is 3 hours.

5. What subjects are included in the NATA 2026 syllabus?

The NATA 2026 syllabus covers: General Aptitude (Mathematics, Reasoning, GK of Architecture); Drawing & Observation (Sketching, Composition, Perspective); Cognitive & Visualization Skills (Spatial ability, Visual memory, Logic).

6. When will the NATA 2026 registration start?

The NATA 2026 registration is expected to start in February 2026, after the CoA releases the official notification. Students can apply online at the official website: nata.in.

7. What is the validity period of NATA 2026 score?

The NATA 2026 score is valid for one academic year only - i.e., for admission in the 2026–2027 session of B.Arch programs.

8. Can I appear for both NATA and JEE Paper 2 for B.Arch admission?

? Yes. You can appear for both NATA and JEE (Main) Paper 2. Many architecture colleges accept either or both scores, depending on their admission policy.

9. What is the minimum qualifying marks in NATA 2026?

The qualifying marks will be decided by the Council of Architecture (CoA) after the exam. Usually, candidates need to score at least 70 marks out of 200 (35%) to qualify, but this can vary each year.

10. How can ADA Classes help me crack NATA 2026?

ADA Classes offers: Expert-led online & offline NATA coaching; Mock tests and drawing workshops; Access to study material, previous year papers, and portfolio guidance. These programs are designed to help students achieve top NATA scores and secure admission to the best architecture colleges in India.

For more resources, visit our articles and test series.