NID DAT Age Restrictions 2026: Eligibility Criteria for BDes and MDes
If you are planning to appear for the NID DAT 2026 entrance exam, checking the age restrictions is just as important as preparing for the test. The National Institute of Design (NID) has set clear rules for who can apply for its BDes (UG) and MDes (PG) programs.
At MAD School, we not only prepare students for NID DAT but also keep them informed about all the important eligibility rules so there’s no confusion during applications.
In this blog, we’ll explain the NID DAT 2026 age limit for all categories—General, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, and Foreign Nationals.
NID DAT 2026 Age Limit for BDes (UG Courses)
Students applying for the Bachelor of Design (BDes) program must meet the following age criteria:
| Category | NID DAT 2026 Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General & EWS (Indian Nationals) | Born on or after 1 July 2005 |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST | Born on or after 1 July 2002 |
| PwD | Born on or after 1 July 2000 |
| Foreign Nationals (Overseas/Supernumerary) | Born on or after 1 July 2005 |
This means General category candidates should not be older than 20 years as of July 1, 2025.
NID DAT 2026 Age Limit for MDes (PG Courses)
Candidates applying for the Master of Design (MDes) program must follow a different cut-off:
| Category | NID DAT 2026 Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General & EWS | Born on or after 1 July 1994 |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST | Born on or after 1 July 1991 |
| PwD | Born on or after 1 July 1989 |
| Foreign Nationals (Overseas/Supernumerary) | Born on or after 1 July 1994 |
For General category candidates, this means the upper age limit is 31 years.
Why Are NID DAT Age Restrictions Important?
- These rules ensure students are within the right academic and professional bracket.
- Not meeting the age eligibility leads to automatic disqualification, even if you score well in the exam.
- Foreign Nationals must follow the same cut-off dates as General category candidates.
How MAD School Helps Students
At MAD School, we go beyond just exam preparation. We make sure our students are well-informed about every eligibility requirement, including age limits, so they apply with complete confidence.
Here’s what we offer:
- Expert NID DAT coaching for Prelims, Studio Test, and Interviews.
- Portfolio-making classes that help you stand out.
- Design software training to make your creative ideas more professional.
- Personalized guidance to keep you updated on eligibility, forms, and deadlines.
When you prepare at MAD School, you’re not just ready for the exam—you’re ready for admission success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on NID DAT Age Limit 2026
- What is the age limit for NID DAT 2026 BDes?
General & EWS: Born on or after 1 July 2005
OBC-NCL/SC/ST: Born on or after 1 July 2002
PwD: Born on or after 1 July 2000 - What is the age limit for NID DAT 2026 MDes?
General & EWS: Born on or after 1 July 1994
OBC-NCL/SC/ST: Born on or after 1 July 1991
PwD: Born on or after 1 July 1989 - Do foreign nationals have different age criteria?
No. They must meet the General category age limits. - Can I still apply if I don’t meet the age limit but clear the exam?
No. You will be disqualified during admissions if you don’t meet the age criteria. - Is there age relaxation for girls in NID DAT?
No. Relaxations apply only to reserved categories (OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and PwD candidates. - How many attempts can I take for NID DAT?
There’s no attempt limit, but you must fall within the age limit and meet educational qualifications.
At MAD School, we believe knowledge and preparation is confidence. If you’re aiming for NID DAT 2026, we’ll make sure you’re not only exam-ready but also fully clear about your eligibility.
Quick Tip: Students should always double-check the latest eligibility notice on the NID official website before applying as rules may be revised by NID.
Related Articles
- NID DAT 2026 Application Form: Dates, Application Fees, Correction Window, and Documents Required
- NIFT vs NID, Which one is the best for me?
