NID Studio Test 2026: Preparation Strategy and Study Plan

Summary: The NID selection process for 2026 is divided into multiple levels. NID DAT Mains 2026 includes the NID Studio Test, which is important in shortlisting candidates. Here are some important NID 2026 Studio Test preparation recommendations.

NID exam is one of the most prestigious exams based on the DAT (Design Aptitude Test). It allows students to get into various undergraduate and postgraduate design courses.

The NID Prelims is a subjective and objective type of questions-based exam. After qualifying for the prelims, you proceed to the Studio test. The studio test for NID admissions comprises questions on drawing/sketching, hands-on model making, group discussions, presentations, etc. 

Continue reading to learn more about the NID studio test preparation strategies.

Unlock the Ultimate Study Material Pack for NID 2026 by CreativeEdge

Note: The video is for NID Studio Test 2025, but its relevant for 2026 also.

What is NID Studio Test 2026?

The NID Studio Test is part of the NID DAT Mains (B.Des & M.Des). It evaluates:

• Creativity and innovation
• Model-making skills
• Problem-solving under time limits
• Storyboarding and sketching
• Observation and visualization
• Audio-visual interpretation

Unlike Prelims, there are no right or wrong answers. Your score depends on originality, clarity, neatness, and creative approach.

You will be required to visualize and design things using various materials. A creative mind will be a bonus for you as the test requires a unique and innovative solution for examiners to be impressed by you. 

Check: How to download NID Admit Card

10 Most Asked NID Drawing Questions You Can't Skip (with Solution Tips)

NID Studio Test Preparation 2026 - Important Topics 

Here are all the expected topics for design problems to be asked in the Studio Test -

• Doodling exercise
• 3D Model Making
• Clay Modelling
• Wire Moulding
• Story Illustration
• Psychometric Test
• Thematic Apperception

How to Prepare for NID Studio Test Questions 2026

Here are some tips you should consider during your NID studio test questions preparations -

• Understand The Syllabus: The NID syllabus and exam pattern are the first and foremost things to analyse the syllabus of the Studio Test. This Studio Test comprises two types of questions regarding observation skills and conceptualisation.
• Topic-Wise Study: NID DAT Mains Studio Test includes tasks like story illustrations, clay modelling, wire moulding, 3-D model making, doodling exercises, psychometric tests, thematic appreciation, and more. You can prepare a Studio Test by doing topic or task-wise study.
• Create An Attractive Portfolio: To ace the NID 2026 Studio Test Preparation, you can create a portfolio displaying your design work and skills.

Read more: NID Placements 2026

You can follow these steps during your test preparations -

• Prepare a study plan and allow sufficient time to cover each topic in detail before the exam, keeping the NID exam pattern in mind.
• Try to evaluate your skill set and determine where you excel and where you fall behind. Then, work on those skills to enhance them better. 
• NID Studio test preparation requires creativity. Make room for creativity in your mind. The more creative you are, the better your chances of acing the exam.
• Practice model-making with every material you can. Get your hands on basic materials like thermocol, rubber sheets, wire, cloth, paper, clay, wool, threads, pins, plastic, plaster of Paris, hardboard, foils, etc. Try practising with these materials for a better understanding.
• Give each task a time limit and complete it in that allocated time.
• Focus on neat and clean model-making, which can help you secure better marks.
• The exam also consists of audio and visual tests. Try to focus on what is displayed or the audio clip being played. It is crucial as examiners can ask questions from any part of that audio or visual presentation.
• Accessing studio test NID previous year questions provides insights into exam structure and question types.
• Reviewing NID studio test sample papers helps in familiarizing with the format and improving problem-solving skills.
• Effective studio test NID preparation involves aligning study plans with the test requirements.
• Utilizing these resources builds confidence and readiness for the NID 2026 studio test Preparation.

Following these steps can ensure you can ace the test without difficulties.

Constantly work on your creativity and find solutions by thinking out of the box.

NID Studio Test Previous Years Questions 2026

Practising with the previous years' questions for NID entrance exam can help you understand the types of questions asked. While no questions are likely to be repeated, understanding the types of questions asked can help you during your preparations.

Model Making:

Q1. You are given a wet sponge. Make a ½ cut apple with it.

Q.2. Make a chair out of straws, design a pen holder with paper, build a toy using clay.

Q3. Make an object that can move, make sound, or do both with the materials provided.

Materials Provided:

• Potatoes - 2
• Ice Cream Sticks - 3
• Straws - 3
• Wires
• Rubberbands
• A4 Size Paper

(Write about your model)

Q.4. Make an object using the following material:

1. Clay
2. Hacksaw blade
3. Water
4. Sponge

The object should be appropriate for the given setting.

Storyboarding:

Q.5. Draw 4-6 frames showing “A day in the life of a dog” or “The journey of a seed.”

Audio Visual Round:

Q.6. Watch a short clip and answer creative questions.

Observation Sketching

Q.7. Sketch a person sitting and interacting with an object.

Practicing these kinds of NID studio test questions gives you a big edge.

Check: NID Entrance section wise preparation

Attempt Real NID Mock Tests (Free Access) & Prepare like a Pro!

How to Prepare for NID 2026 Studio Test - DAT Mains Weightage Distribution

For the NID 2026 exam, the DAT Mains stage carries 100% weightage in the final merit list. As officially stated in the NID 2026 admissions brochure, DAT Prelims marks are used only for shortlisting and do not contribute to the final result.
This makes understanding the DAT Mains weightage distribution extremely important for aspirants.

While NID does not publish an exact marks breakup for every activity, the evaluation structure and past trends, combined with the newly introduced components in 2026, give a clear picture of how marks are broadly distributed.

NID DAT Mains 2026 B.Des & M.Des – Weightage Distribution

DAT Mains Component	Approximate Weightage for B.Des	Approximate Weightage for M.Des	What Is Evaluated
Studio Test	60%	40%	Design thinking, creativity, problem-solving, material handling, model-making, visual communication, time management
In-Person Sensitivity Test (New in 2026)	40%	-	Observation, empathy, contextual awareness, human sensitivity, response to real-world situations
Personal Interview	-	60%	Communication skills, clarity of thought, intent for design, portfolio discussion (if applicable)

Check: NID Entrance Exam Section Wise Preparation Tips

What Is the NID In-Person Sensitivity Test?

As per the official declaration, the In-Person Sensitivity Test will be conducted during NID Mains 2026, along with the Studio Test and Interview (as applicable).
The term “sensitivity” in a design context typically refers to a candidate’s:

• Awareness of people, context, and environment
• Ability to empathise with users
• Responsiveness to real-world situations
• Observation and interpretation skills

What Experts Expect from the In-Person Sensitivity Test:

Although NID has not released official details, experts expect the test to potentially involve one or more of the following:

• Live observation-based tasks
  Candidates may be asked to observe a situation, object, or interaction and respond thoughtfully.
• Situational judgement or response exercises
  Assessing how a candidate reacts to social, environmental, or ethical scenarios.
• Interaction or discussion-based evaluation
  Measuring communication skills, empathy, and clarity of thought.
• User-awareness and sensitivity checks
  Understanding inclusivity, accessibility, and human impact of design decisions.

These expectations are based on NID’s long-term evaluation philosophy, not speculation about exact question formats.

Portfolio and Interview for NID 2026

The NID Test Portfolio and Interview round are held separately for each specialization immediately following the NID Studio Test at the same location. This is a very important stage in the final decision-making. The primary reason for conducting an interview is to evaluate your knowledge and interest in design, as well as your understanding of NID important topics. The panel will assess you based on your career focus, intellectual capacity, and soft skills.

Here are some tips to create a good portfolio for NID interviews -

• Include Your Best Work: This goes without saying, but including your best works in your NID portfolio can amplify your skills, ensuring you stand out from the competitors.
• Work on Presentation: Presentation plays an important role in showcasing your skills in an aesthetically pleasing way. 
• Models/Prototypes: If you are good at building models, it is advisable to showcase your designs using some of your best models during the NID interview process.

Please remember to bring your portfolio, including original artwork, 3D models, portraits, creative writing, posters, graphic art, and so on.

Read More: How To Prepare for NID Interview 2026?

Materials to Carry for NID Studio Test

Here’s a checklist of materials students usually find useful:

1. Pencils (2B, 4B, 6B)
2. Eraser, sharpener
3. Black sketch pens, color pencils
4. Cutter/scissors, fevicol, tape
5. Chart paper, craft paper
6. Clay or M-seal
7. Straws, matchsticks, thermocol sheets

Check your admit card for allowed items - carry only permitted materials.

Read more: NID Study Plan 2026   

Access Original Previous Year Papers PDF (Last 5 Years) with Answer Keys in One Click!

Conclusion

The NID Studio Test 2026 is a pivotal component of the NID selection process and evaluates candidates on their creativity, problem-solving skills, and practical abilities. It is essential to the admission criteria for both Bachelor and Master of Design programs at NID.

Completing this test requires a focused preparation strategy emphasising hands-on practice with various materials, creativity enhancement, and execution quality—regardless of which NID exam centres you choose.

Statistically, the test challenges candidates through doodling, model making, and audio-visual analysis exercises to filter the most innovative and skilled individuals for admission.

With rigorous preparation, candidates can significantly increase their chances of excelling in the NID Studio Test and securing a place at this prestigious institution.

Check:  NID Online Coaching by Creative Edge