NATA serves as a single-window system for assessing candidates’ aptitude for Architecture and facilitates admissions to the first year of the five-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree program at all COA-recognized institutions across the country.
Overview
NATA is an aptitude test designed to assess a candidate’s inherent abilities through a variety of testing formats. It evaluates skills that cannot be taught, memorised, or induced, focusing instead on natural aptitude relevant to the field of Architecture. The test measures cognitive skills, visual perception, aesthetic sensitivity, logical reasoning, and critical thinking abilities, along with knowledge acquired by the candidate over the years that is directly related to architectural studies.
The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) has been conducted by the Council of Architecture (COA) since 2006. It serves as a qualifying examination for admission to the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program across architecture institutions in India.
Questions and Marks of Examinations
| Part | Time | Marks |
| A: Drawing and Composition Test (Offline) | 90 minutes | 80 marks |
| B: MCQ & NCQ (Computer based adaptive test) | 90 minutes | 120 marks |
Total Marks: Part A & Part B = 200 Marks
Qualifying Criteria
- A minimum of 20 marks must be secured in PART A
- A minimum of 20 marks must be secured in PART B
- Overall qualifying marks for NATA 2025 shall be 60 marks out of 200 as aggregate of PART A & B.
Eligibility
- Passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with either Chemistry, Biology, Technical Vocational subject, Computer Science, Information Technology, Informatics Practices, Engineering Graphics or Business Studies with at least 45% marks in aggregate.
- Please note that qualifying in NATA alone does not guarantee admission.
Application Procedure
- Fill up the application form
- Upload photograph and signature
- Pay the application fee per test:
| General/OBC | SC/ST/EWS/PwD | Transgender | Outside India |
| Rs. 1,750 | Rs. 1,250 | Rs.1,000 | Rs. 15,000 |
- Allocation of the test centre is done based on the preferences selected by the candidate, subject to availability.
- Admit card can be downloaded from the official website prior to the examination
- Results will be available and declared on the website www.nata.in
Important Dates 2026
Source: NATA 2026
Conclusion
If architecture is your chosen path, now is the time to take action. The application for NATA 2026 is now open, plan your preparation around the official test windows:
- Phase 1: 4 April – 13 June 2026 (Fridays & Saturdays)
- Phase 2: 7 August – 8 August 2026 (for candidates who missed the first attempt)
Starting early with drawing practice, design thinking exercises, and familiarity with the exam format can significantly improve your confidence and performance. Secure your preferred exam slot at the earliest, and take the first step toward building your future in architecture.
