April 14, 2026
Quick Answer: The NATA marking scheme is based on a total of 200 marks, divided into Part A (Drawing – 80 marks) and Part B (Aptitude - 120 marks). Part A includes 3 drawing questions, while Part B consists of MCQ and numerical questions from mathematics, logical reasoning, and architectural aptitude.
There is no negative marking in the NATA exam, and marks vary depending on question type and difficulty level.
NATA marking scheme explains how marks are distributed across drawing and aptitude sections. Each part follows a different evaluation method, making it important for aspirants to understand the scoring process, weightage distribution, and preparation strategy required to maximize their overall performance.
NOTE: The video is about very recent changes in NATA for 2026 exams, but experts expect it to remain the same in 2027 as well.
The NATA 2027 exam pattern and marking scheme is based on a total of 200 marks divided into two parts. The drawing and composition section carries 80 marks and is evaluated subjectively, while the aptitude section carries 120 marks and is scored automatically through MCQ and NCQ questions. The final NATA score is calculated by combining marks from both sections.
The scheme also details tie-breaking rules and specifies that scores are valid for one year. Knowing about the NATA Marking Scheme and the NATA Total Marks distribution helps aspirants plan their preparation and time management effectively, ensuring they aim for maximum marks.
According to the official NATA exam brochure, the NATA evaluates candidates through a combination of drawing, composition, and aptitude-based objective questions. The exam is designed to assess visual perception, creativity, observation skills, and architectural aptitude through different question formats.
The NATA 2027 marking scheme is simple. There will be no negative marking in case the question is wrong. This is significant because even if you do not know the answer, you can try attempting the question.
Here's the NATA Total Marks distribution, let us look at the overall exam structure:
|
Part |
Area |
No of Questions |
Marks |
Evaluation Method |
|
Part A - Drawing and Composition Test |
Composition and Colour |
1 |
25 marks |
Subjective evaluation by expert examiners |
|
Sketching and Composition |
1 |
25 marks |
||
|
3D Composition |
1 |
30 marks |
||
|
Part B - MCQs |
General Aptitude |
30 Questions (2 marks) |
60 marks |
Computer-based automatic evaluation |
|
15 Questions (4 marks) |
60 marks |
Read more: Government colleges accepting NATA score
|
Section |
Type of Questions Asked |
Percentage Weightage in Total Marks |
|
Drawing and Composition Test (Part A) |
Composition tasks, sketching, visual storytelling, spatial visualization |
40% (80/200 marks) |
|
Aptitude MCQ Questions (Part B) |
Logical reasoning, basic mathematics, visual reasoning, architectural awareness, analytical questions |
60% (120/200 marks) |
|
Cognitive / Adaptive NCQ Questions (Part B) |
Visual analysis, design sensitivity, problem-solving tasks |
Included within 60% aptitude weightage |
Read more: NATA Exam Analysis
Understanding how the NATA marking scheme works is important for candidates preparing for the exam, as the final score is calculated using both subjective and objective evaluation methods. The NATA 2027 marking scheme combines creative assessment through drawing tasks with computer-based scoring for aptitude questions, ensuring that candidates are evaluated on design thinking as well as analytical ability.
The final NATA score is calculated by combining marks obtained in both parts of the exam:
|
Component |
Evaluation Method |
Contribution to Final Score |
|
Drawing and Composition Test |
Subjective evaluation by experts |
80 marks |
|
Aptitude MCQ and NCQ Test |
Computer-based objective scoring |
120 marks |
|
Final NATA Score |
Combined total from both parts |
200 marks |
Candidates must perform well in both creative and aptitude sections because the final score reflects overall architectural aptitude rather than performance in only one area.
Understanding the NATA marking scheme is not only about knowing total marks but also about identifying which sections offer higher scoring potential. Since NATA evaluates candidates through both creative drawing tasks and objective aptitude questions, aspirants should balance preparation based on marks weightage and expected difficulty level.
|
Section |
Total Marks |
Difficulty Nature |
Scoring Potential |
Preparation Focus |
|
NATA Drawing and Composition Test |
80 Marks |
Subjective and concept-based |
Moderate to High |
Focus on creativity, composition, and clarity of ideas |
|
Aptitude MCQ and NCQ Test |
120 Marks |
Objective and logic-driven |
High |
Practice reasoning, observation, and visual analysis |
The aptitude section carries more marks overall, but the drawing section allows candidates to stand out through originality and presentation.
|
Area of Focus |
Why It Matters for Scoring |
|
Visual Reasoning Questions |
Objective scoring allows faster marks accumulation |
|
Logical and Analytical Questions |
Accuracy improves overall aptitude score |
|
Composition Tasks |
Clear structure and creativity can secure high marks |
|
Demonstrates architectural aptitude valued by examiners |
Students should aim for strong accuracy in objective questions while maintaining consistency in drawing performance to maximise their overall NATA score.
Check: How to Crack NATA exam in first attempt
|
Strategy |
How It Improves Score |
|
Prioritize high-weight aptitude questions |
Increases chances of scoring quickly |
|
Practice timed drawing exercises |
Improves clarity under pressure |
|
Focus on observation and visualization |
Helps in both drawing and aptitude sections |
|
Avoid over-detailing drawings |
Saves time and maintains structure |
If you and other students have scored the same NATA Total Marks in the NATA Entrance Exam 2027, the board will decide on whom to consider for admission based on the below-mentioned criteria:
Read more: NATA` 2026 Exam Analysis
According to the NATA marking scheme, candidates will be evaluated based on the following criteria, and the authorities will set the questions considering these factors -
| Aptitude Test Parameters | Testing Ability |
| Diagrammatic Reasoning | Uses diagrams and situations to assess the candidate's logical thinking abilities. |
| Logical Reasoning | Tests the ability of the candidate to perceive patterns, sequences, or correlations between forms and visuals is tested. |
| Verbal Reasoning | Assesses the candidate’s ability to evaluate verbal logic |
| Situational Judgment | Assesses the problem-solving ability of the candidate |
| Inductive Reasoning | This test assesses the candidate's ability to recognize patterns and analyze presented data. |
| Numerical Reasoning | Simple problems are used to assess the candidate's arithmetic competence. |
| Abstract Reasoning | This test evaluates the candidate's general knowledge and ability to apply information in new settings. |
Check: NATA Eligibility Criteria
As per the recent NATA exam pattern, there is no negative marking in the NATA marking scheme. Candidates are encouraged to attempt all objective questions because incorrect answers do not lead to mark deductions.
|
Marking Aspect |
NATA 2027 Rule |
|
Negative Marking |
No negative marking expected as per recent pattern |
|
Unattempted Questions |
No penalty |
|
Objective Questions |
Attempting more questions can increase score |
|
Drawing Section |
Evaluated on quality, not deduction |
Check: Complete list of NATA colleges in india
Applicants who wish to pursue B.Arch/B.Planning courses at various prestigious institutes can appear for the NATA 2027 Entrance Exam. The question paper will contain three sets: Drawing, PCM, and General Aptitude. According to the NATA marking scheme, drawing carries 80 marks, while PCM and General Aptitude each carry 60 marks.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based |
| Offline Test | |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Medium | English Hindi |
| Section | Part A - Drawing and Composition Test |
| Part B - MCQs | |
| Total Number of Questions | 48 Questions |
| Maximum Marks | 200 marks |
| Qualifying Marks | 75 out of 200 |
Must Read: Sample NATA GK Questions with Answers PDF
| NATA Mock Test | |
| NATA Preparation Video 2027 | |
| NATA Syllaus 2027 | |
| NATA PYQs |
Explore: Best Books for NATA Preparation
CoA will publish the NATA syllabus for 2027 on the official website. The syllabus will allow candidates to view the courses, themes, and units that must be studied to pass the exam. The NATA marking scheme will also be made available, detailing how the exam is scored, including the weightage for different sections like Drawing, Mathematics, and General Knowledge. Understanding the marking scheme is essential for candidates to effectively manage their time and strategy during the exam
The candidates can comprehend the crucial concepts and prepare for the upcoming exam by knowing the syllabus in advance.
The following is the list of other topics mentioned by NATA officially as the NATA 2027 Syllabus'
| NATA Important Topics | |
| Mathematics | Colour theory |
| Physics and geometry | Visual perception and cognition |
| Language and interpretation | Graphics and imagery |
| Elements and principles of design | Building anatomy and architectural vocabulary |
| Aesthetic sensitivity | Basic building construction and knowledge of material |
| Lateral thinking and logical reasoning | General knowledge and current affairs |
Understanding the NATA marking scheme is essential for the preparation.
Preparing for NATA 2027? We can help you with exact strategic roadmap, study material and crucial feedback required to ace this exam.
Join CreativEdge, India’s leading NATA online coaching and get expert guidance on all NATA 2027 subjects.
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