NATA

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or an equivalent examination recognized by the Central Government. Alternatively, candidates who have passed a 10+3 Diploma recognized by the AICTE with Mathematics as a subject are also eligible.
• Age Limit: There is no specific upper age limit prescribed.
• Nationality: Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply for the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA).

Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: Offline (paper-based)
• Number of Questions: The exam consists of two parts - Part A (Drawing Test) and Part B (Aptitude Test).
  • Part A: Drawing questions (2 questions for testing drawing and sketching ability)
  • Part B: Aptitude test with 40 questions multiple choice questions on Mathematics and General Aptitude.
• Marking Scheme: Total marks are 200 (Drawing Test - 100 marks, Aptitude Test - 100 marks)
• Subjects Covered: Drawing Test, Mathematics, General Aptitude.
• Exam Schedule: Usually held twice a year - first session in April and second session in July.
  • Notification is generally released 1-2 months prior to the exam, i.e., in February-March for April exam and May-June for July exam.

Syllabus

• Mathematics:
  • Sets, Relations, and Functions
  • Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic, Geometric Progressions)
  • Trigonometry (Heights and Distances, Trigonometric Ratios)
  • Analytical Geometry (Straight Line, Circle)
  • Differential Calculus (Limits, Continuity, Differentiation)
  • Integral Calculus (Basic Integration and Application)
  • Statistics and Probability
• General Aptitude:
  • Visualizing 3D objects from 2D drawings
  • Analytical Reasoning and Logical thinking
  • Pattern perception, Mental Ability, and Imagination
  • Architectural awareness and general knowledge related to architecture
• Drawing Test:
  • Understanding of scale and proportions
  • Sketching of objects from memory or imagination
  • Creating 2D and 3D compositions using basic geometrical shapes
  • Perspective drawing, Shadows, and Textures

Other Content

Application Process

1. Visit the official website www.nata.in.
2. Register online with a valid email ID and phone number.
3. Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and contact details.
4. Upload scanned copies of photograph and signature as per specifications.
5. Pay the application fee online through available payment modes.
6. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) in various colleges across India accepting NATA scores.

Facts about NATA

• It tests drawing and architectural aptitude of candidates aspiring to join architecture programs.
• Recognized by the Council of Architecture (CoA), India.
• Ranked as the primary entrance exam for Architecture admissions in India.

Admit Card

• Admit card can be downloaded from the official website usually 7 to 10 days before the exam date.
• Use registered credentials to log in and download the admit card.
• Carry the printed admit card along with a valid photo ID to the exam center.
• Check the details like name, exam center, date and time carefully on the admit card.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are declared on the official website around 2-3 weeks after the exam.
• Candidates can check their score by logging in with their application details.
• Cut-off marks vary depending on the category and participating institutes.

Preparation Tips

• Focus on improving drawing skills using practice sheets and reference books.
• Strengthen mathematical concepts relevant to the syllabus.
• Practice sample papers and previous years’ question papers.
• Use online resources and video tutorials for better understanding of aptitude topics.
• Time management during preparation and exam is crucial.

FAQs

• Q: Can a candidate appear for NATA more than once in a year?
  A: Yes, NATA is conducted twice a year and candidates can appear in either or both sessions.
• Q: Is NATA score valid for all architecture colleges in India?
  A: NATA scores are accepted by most architecture colleges in India recognized by the Council of Architecture.
• Q: What is the validity period of NATA score?
  A: The score is generally valid for one admission session/year.
• Q: Is there any negative marking in NATA exam?
  A: No, there is no negative marking in the aptitude section; drawing is evaluated qualitatively.
• Q: How to prepare for the drawing test?
  A: Regular practice in sketching, perspective drawing, and shading techniques is recommended.