NATA General FAQs

What is NATA?

NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) is a national-level aptitude test for admission to the 5-year B.Arch programme.

Who conducts NATA?

The Council of Architecture (CoA), a statutory body constituted under the Architects Act, 1972, conducts NATA.

Have the NATA 2027 dates been announced?

No. As of 15 October 2026, the Council has not released the NATA 2027 schedule. Check nata.in for updates.

When was NATA 2026 scheduled?

The NATA 2026 brochure scheduled Phase 1 from 4 April to 13 June 2026, and Phase 2 on 7–8 August 2026.

What is the NATA exam pattern?

In 2026, NATA had a 90-minute offline drawing test (80 marks) and a 90-minute computer-based adaptive aptitude test (120 marks), totalling 200 marks.

In which languages is NATA conducted?

NATA 2026 was conducted in English and Hindi.

Is there negative marking in NATA?

The NATA 2026 brochure does not mention negative marking. Check the 2027 brochure when released.

How many times can I take NATA?

In 2026, candidates could take up to two attempts in Phase 1, or one attempt in Phase 2, but not both phases.

What happens if I take NATA twice?

In 2026, the better raw score of the two Phase 1 attempts was used for the percentile.

Does NATA release an answer key?

The NATA 2026 brochure did not mention an answer key or objection process.

Where can I find the NATA test centres?

The 2026 brochure listed test cities across India and Dubai as the international centre. The final list depends on availability.

How should I prepare for NATA?

NATA tests aptitude, so regular drawing practice and reasoning practice matter more than memorising chapters. See the NATA Syllabus.

Need Help with B.Arch Admissions?

Eduspray India can help students understand NATA requirements, shortlist architecture colleges and plan their admission applications. Use the College Predictor, compare colleges or explore top colleges in India.

NATA Eligibility FAQs

Can I apply for NATA while appearing in Class 12?

Yes. In 2026, candidates appearing in 10+2 or the 10+3 Diploma could register.

Which subjects are compulsory for NATA?

Physics and Mathematics were compulsory in 2026, plus one subject from a list that includes Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science and others.

Is Chemistry compulsory for NATA?

No. Chemistry is one of several optional subjects that can be combined with Physics and Mathematics.

Can commerce students take NATA?

Only if they studied Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects in 10+2. Business Studies is one of the accepted third subjects.

What minimum marks are needed?

At least 45% aggregate in the qualifying exam under the NATA 2026 rules.

Is there an age limit for NATA?

The NATA 2026 brochure does not state an age limit.

Can diploma holders take NATA?

Yes. 10+3 Diploma holders with Mathematics as a compulsory subject and at least 45% aggregate were eligible in 2026.

Can candidates outside India take NATA?

Yes. In 2026, the form included OCI, PIO and Foreign options, and the fee for a test centre outside India was ₹15,000.

Is my NATA 2026 score valid for 2027 admissions?

NATA 2026 scores were valid for the 2026–27 academic session. Rules for using earlier scores in 2027–28 will be confirmed in the NATA 2027 brochure.

Are there provisions for candidates with disabilities?

Yes. In 2026, eligible candidates with a valid certificate received compensatory time for the drawing test and scribe provisions for the online test under specified conditions.

Need Help with B.Arch Admissions?

Eduspray India can help students understand NATA requirements, shortlist architecture colleges and plan their admission applications. Use the College Predictor, compare colleges or explore top colleges in India.