What is NATA?
The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is a national-level entrance exam for admission to undergraduate architecture programs across India. Recognised by all major architecture institutions, NATA tests a student’s drawing skills, spatial perception, critical thinking, and mathematical ability, all key components of architectural aptitude.
Clearing NATA is essential for admission into top architecture colleges in India, and PAHAL DESIGN offers expert coaching and personalised support to help you succeed in the NATA Exam.
Conducted by
NATA is conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA), a statutory body under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The CoA is responsible for regulating architecture education and practice in India, and NATA is its official entrance test for admission to a 5-year B.Arch. degree programs offered by institutions approved by the CoA.
Accepted by
- School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi (also accepts JEE Paper 2)
- CEPT University, Ahmedabad
- R.V. College of Architecture, Bengaluru
- Sushant School of Art and Architecture, Gurgaon
- L.S. Raheja School of Architecture, Mumbai
- Sir J.J. College of Architecture, Mumbai
- Chandigarh College of Architecture, Chandigarh
- BMS College of Architecture, Bengaluru
- M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bengaluru
- Rizvi College of Architecture, Mumbai
Exam Pattern
Aptitude Test
Drawing & Observation
Mathematics & Logical Reasoning
Cognitive reasoning (in online mode)
Attempts
You can attempt multiple times (Maximum 3 attempts), and the best 2 scores are considered
Career Paths
Architect (Core Career)
- Design outdoor areas like parks, gardens, campuses, and resorts.
- Combines ecology, botany, and architecture.
- Further Study: M.Arch in Landscape Architecture.
Urban Planner / Town Planner
- Design and plan cities, towns, transportation systems, and infrastructure.
- Work with government agencies, municipal bodies, or private consultancies.
- Further Study: M.Plan (Urban Planning), GATE, or courses from SPA, CEPT, etc.
Interior Designer
- Design indoor spaces: homes, offices, cafes, and showrooms.
- Strong sense of aesthetics, space usage, lighting, and materials.
- Many architects pursue short-term interior design diplomas.
Landscape Architect
- Interior Designer
- Design indoor spaces: homes, offices, cafes, and showrooms.
- Strong sense of aesthetics, space usage, lighting, and materials.
- Many architects pursue short-term interior design diplomas.
Architectural Visualisation /3D Artist
- Use software like SketchUp, Lumion, Blender, and Revit to create 3D models and renders.
- Highly in-demand in real estate, animation, and marketing sectors.
BIM (Building Information Modelling) Specialist
- Use tools like Revit, ArchiCAD to manage large construction projects digitally.
- Work in multinational architecture or engineering firms.
Academia / Teaching
- Become a lecturer or researcher in architecture colleges.
- Requires M.Arch or PhD in Architecture/Design.
Construction Project Manager
- Manage the execution of building projects on-site.
- Combines architecture with business, engineering, and logistics.
- Courses: PMP Certification, MBA in Construction Management.
