JEE Mains Complete Syllabus 2026 | Paper 1 2A 2B Complete Guide
The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission into B.Arch programmes across India. NATA 2026 will be conducted in two phases: Phase 1 between April and June 2026 and Phase 2 in August 2026. This page covers the complete NATA syllabus 2026, including the exam pattern, Part A drawing test, Part B aptitude topics, and effective preparation.
NATA 2026 Exam Structure Overview
NATA 2026 is divided into two parts that test both creative ability and analytical thinking.
| Part | Mode | Duration | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A – Drawing & Composition | Offline (Pen and Paper) | 90 minutes | 80 marks |
| Part B – Aptitude Test (MCQ + NCQ) | Online Adaptive | 90 minutes | 120 marks |
| Total | — | 180 minutes | 200 marks |
The exam is conducted in English and Hindi. Each session lasts three hours and combines both sections. This structure ensures a balance between design skills and logical aptitude.
NATA Exam Snapshot
Clear structure balances design and logic.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Marks | 200 (Part A: 80, Part B: 120) |
| Duration | 180 minutes |
| Part A | Offline Drawing (90 min, 80 marks) |
| Part B | Online Adaptive (90 min, 120 marks; 42 MCQ + 8 NCQ) |
| High-Weightage Areas | 3D Composition (30 marks), Visual Reasoning, Architecture GK |
NATA 2026 Syllabus 2026 – Section-wise Topic List
NATA 2026 — Part A (Drawing & Composition Test)
| Section | Topic | Subject Details | Priority | How to Approach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Composition and Colour | Creating visual compositions using shapes, forms, and colour balance based on a given theme | 🔴 High | Practice colour harmony, layout balance, and creative arrangement |
| A2 | Sketching and Composition (B/W) | Freehand drawing of real-life scenes focusing on proportion, perspective, and shading | 🔴 High | Work on perspective, depth, and detailing through regular sketching |
| A3 | 3D Composition | Building physical 3D models using given materials to represent spatial ideas | 🔴 High | Practice model-making, improve spatial understanding and form creation |
NATA 2026 — Part B (Aptitude MCQ & NCQ Test)
| Section | Topic | Subject Details | Priority | How to Approach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visual Reasoning | Understanding shapes, patterns, and spatial arrangements in 2D and 3D forms | 🔴 High | Practice visual puzzles, spatial rotation, and pattern recognition |
| 2 | Logical Derivation | Analysing situations and identifying patterns to draw logical conclusions | 🟠 Medium | Solve reasoning questions regularly, focus on pattern logic |
| 3 | General Knowledge (Architecture & Design) | Awareness of famous architects, buildings, materials, and design trends | 🟠 Medium | Stay updated with architecture basics and landmark structures |
| 4 | Language Interpretation | Reading comprehension, grammar, and sentence interpretation | 🟡 Low | Improve reading habits and basic grammar skills |
| 5 | Design Sensitivity and Thinking | Understanding design intent, spatial awareness, and visual analysis | 🔴 High | Observe real-world designs, analyse layouts and objects |
| 6 | Numerical Ability | Basic maths concepts related to geometry and spatial calculations | 🟡 Low | Revise fundamental maths and practice simple problems |
NATA 2026 Marking Scheme
- Total marks: 200 (Part A: 80 and Part B: 120)
- NATA uses a percentile-based scoring system across multiple sessions
- Students can attempt up to two tests in Phase 1
- The best raw score is used for the final percentile calculation
- A non-zero percentile in the final scorecard is considered qualifying
NATA 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- Passed or appearing in 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with one of Chemistry, Biology, Technical Vocational, Computer Science, IT, Informatics Practices, Engineering Graphics, or Business Studies, with at least 45 percent aggregate
- Passed or appearing in a 10+3 Diploma with Mathematics as a compulsory subject with at least 45 percent marks
Qualifying for NATA does not guarantee admission. Each institution or state authority has its own admission process. For full details, refer to the NATA 2026 registration and eligibility guide.
How to Prepare for NATA 2026
- Practise composition and colouring daily using colour pencils and dry colours. This helps improve speed and accuracy for Part A.
- Work on observational sketching. Draw real environments such as streets, rooms, and buildings to improve proportion and perspective.
- Build 3D thinking by using paper models or simple construction kits. This directly helps in the 3D composition section.
- Solve visual reasoning and pattern-based questions regularly for Part B.
- Stay updated with architecture and design by reading articles, observing buildings, and following current trends.
- Revise basic geometry and percentages for numerical ability. These questions are simple but easy to miss without practice.
You can also explore preparation strategies in the how to prepare for NATA exam guide, including time management and mock test practice, to stay consistent.
Students writing both NATA and JEE should also refer to the JEE Main Paper 2A syllabus for B.Arch, as the Aptitude and Drawing sections overlap significantly.
Why Prepare for NATA at Giraffe Learning
Giraffe Learning offers dedicated NATA coaching in Bangalore with focused training for both drawing and aptitude sections. Students receive structured practice in composition, sketching, and spatial design, along with guidance on Part B topics. With experienced faculty and consistent mock tests, preparation becomes more organised and effective.
Explore NATA coaching at Giraffe Learning to understand how guided preparation can support your performance.
Free Official NATA Syllabus Downloads
FAQs
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What is the NATA 2026 syllabus?
The NATA syllabus 2026 includes Part A drawing and composition tasks and Part B aptitude topics such as reasoning, general knowledge, and design thinking. Refer to the NATA 2026 registration and eligibility guide for the full exam overview.
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How many parts does the NATA exam have?
NATA has two parts. Part A is an offline drawing test, while Part B is an online aptitude test.
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Is there negative marking in NATA 2026?
There is no negative marking for NCQ questions. MCQs are marked according to the standard marking scheme, but candidates should refer to the official guidelines for exact details.
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What drawing materials are allowed in NATA?
Students can use pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and coloured pencils. Use of digital tools or advanced instruments is not allowed in the drawing section.