At the outset, I wish all aspiring architects the very best for the upcoming examinations!
As the architecture entrance exams approach, it's crucial to understand the recent changes in formats, topics, and the importance of effective preparation. Enrolling in specialized coaching programs such as NATA Coaching 2025 and JEE2 Coaching, can provide structured guidance, expert instruction, and ample practice opportunities, significantly enhancing your chances of success
Objective
The architecture entrance exams, NATA and JEE2, have undergone several changes this year, including modifications in the question paper format, number of attempts, and topics covered. Many candidates are confused about the differences between these exams and their importance.
This article aims to address common queries, including:
Overview of Architecture Colleges in India
TIndia has around 700 architecture colleges, including government, private, and public-private institutions. Popular entrance exams for architecture include JEE2 and NATA, which provide admission to top colleges such as:
- JNAFAU - Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University
- SPA - School of Planning & Architecture (Delhi, Bhopal, Vijayawada)
- NIT - National Institute of Technology (Multiple campuses)
- CEPT University - Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology
- IIEST - Indian Institute of Engineering Science & Technology
- IITs - Indian Institutes of Technology (Multiple campuses)
Both exams are significant, but they differ in topics covered, frequency, question paper pattern, and participating institutions. Below is a quick comparison.
| Description | JEE2 | NATA |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency | Council of Architecture |
| Number of Attempts in a year | 2 attempts in a year | 3 attempts in a year |
| Examination conducted every year | January -1st attempt April – 2nd Attempt |
April to July ( Choice of any 3 attempts ) |
| Examination | B. Arch | B. Arch |
| Maximum Marks | 400 Marks | 200 Marks |
| Negative Marking | Yes | No |
| Total Number of Questions | Total of 82 questions 1. 20 Questions MCQ & 10 Numerical value questions from Mathematics 2. 50 questions from Aptitude 3. 2 questions on drawing |
Total number of questions : 47 1. 3 questions on Drawing 2. 45 questions ( Theory ) |
| Mode of Examination | Theory : Computer based Drawing : Paper & Pencil |
Theory : Computer based Drawing : Paper & Pencil |
| Language | 13 languages : English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urudu | English & Hindi |
| Topics | Topics Include : Theory ( online ) 1. Sequences & Series 2. Trigonometry 3. Calculus 4. Analytic Geometry 5. Determinants 6. Permutations & Combinations 7. Quadratic Equations 8. Probability 9. Vector Algebra 10. Mathematical Induction 11. Differential Equation 12. Limit, continuity & differentiability 13. 2d/3d visualization 14. Graphs, charts & Maps Drawing test : (offline) Sketching of Scenes and activities from Memory of Urban scape |
Topics Include :- 1. Composition & Color 2. Sketching & Composition ( B& W) 3. 3D Compositions 4. Visual Reasoning 5. Logical Derivation 6. GK Architecture & Design 7. Language Interpretation 8. Design Sensitivity 9. Design Thinking 10. Numerical Ability |
| Total Exam Duration | 3 hours 30 minutes | 180 Minutes /3.0 Hours |
| A good score | 250 and above | 130 and above |
| Exam Eligibility | Should have Maths, Physics & Chemistry with 50% Marks | Should have Math's, Physics & Chemistry with 50% Marks |
| Considered Score | Best of 2 attempts | Best of 3 attempts |
| Counseling Authority | Through JOSAA | Through Govt appointed University 1. Hyderabad : JNAFAU 2. Chennai : Anna University |
| Declaration of results | Month of March & May End of Month |
After each attempt |
| Participating Institutions | IIT, NIT & Govt architecture colleges | CEPT, SPA & Autonomous institutions |
| Total number of students appeared (2024) | 71009 students | 45,000 Students |
| Highest Score (2024) | Shared by 4 people with 100 percentile | 156 (Name cannot be disclosed) |
| Activity round | No | Yes (3d composition) |
Comparison of JEE2 and NATA Exam
Exam Structure and Key Topics
JEE2 Topics
Theory (Online):
- Sequences & Series
- Trigonometry
- Calculus
- Analytic Geometry
- Determinants
- Permutations & Combinations
- Quadratic Equations
- Probability
- Vector Algebra
- Mathematical Induction
- Differential Equations
- Limit, Continuity & Differentiability
- 2D/3D Visualization
- Graphs, Charts & Maps
Drawing Test (Offline):
Sketching of scenes and activities from memory (urban scape)
NATA Topics
- Composition & Color
- Sketching & Composition (Black & White)
- 3D Compositions
- Visual Reasoning
- Logical Derivation
- GK on Architecture & Design
- Language Interpretation
- Design Sensitivity
- Design Thinking
- Numerical Ability
Counseling Process for JEE 2 & NATA
JEE2 Counseling (Through JOSAA)
- Online Registration: Candidates must register on jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Document Verification: Upload required documents online
- Choice Filling: Select preferred institutions
- Seat Allotment: Based on rank, availability, and preferences
- Online/Offline Counseling: Attend sessions as required
NATA Counseling (State-Level Admission)
- Candidates must apply individually to their preferred institution
- NATA counseling is state-level, whereas JEE2 counseling is national-level
- Telangana example: JNAFAU conducts NATA counseling in Telangana
- Counseling dates are announced in national newspapers and on www.nata.in
- Domicile requirements vary by state
State Registration Windows
| State | Registration Portal |
|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | TNEA |
| Telangana | TGCHE |
| Karnataka | COMEDK |
| Andhra Pradesh | APSCHE |
| Kerala | KEAM |
| Maharashtra | MHT CET B.Arch |
| Delhi | JAC |
Note: Students who wish to appear for counseling in other states should register with the respective websites to be qualified. This does not qualify the state domicile.
