National Institute of Fashion Technology Fees, Admission 2026, Courses, Cutoff, Ranking, Placement

About National Institute of Fashion Technology - [NIFT] Kolkata

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Kolkata, established in 1995, is a premier government autonomous institute located in Kolkata, West Bengal. It operates under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and is one of the oldest NIFT centers, offering specialized education in fashion design, technology, and management.

NIFT Kolkata holds a strong reputation with a NAAC accreditation and is recognized for its comprehensive academic programs including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses. The institute is known for its industry-oriented curriculum, experienced faculty, and significant contributions to fashion education and research in Eastern India.

Key Highlights

Admission Dates 2026

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kolkata admission for 2026 is based on the NIFT Entrance Exam, which includes the General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT) for design programs. The application process opens in late 2025, with the entrance exam scheduled in February 2026, followed by situation tests, interviews, and counselling for seat allotment.

Admission Process

Admission to National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kolkata is based on the NIFT Entrance Exam, which includes the General Ability Test (GAT) for all programs and the Creative Ability Test (CAT) for design courses, followed by a Situation Test or Personal Interview depending on the program. Candidates must register online, appear for the entrance exam, and participate in counselling for seat allotment.

UG and PG Programmes Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Visit the official NIFT website and create a login ID for registration.
2. Fill out the online application form with personal and educational details and upload required documents.
3. Pay the application fee online (₹3,000 for General/OBC, ₹1,500 for SC/ST/PwD candidates).
4. Download the admit card when released and appear for the NIFT Entrance Exam (GAT mandatory; CAT for B.Des and M.Des).
5. Shortlisted B.Des candidates appear for the Situation Test; PG candidates appear for the Personal Interview.
6. Check results on the official portal and participate in counselling for seat allotment based on rank and preferences.
7. Complete document verification and pay the admission fee to confirm the seat.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

Documents Required

• Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates
• Graduation degree certificate (for PG applicants)
• Passport-size photograph
• Scanned signature
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• Admit card and entrance exam scorecard
• Proof of age (birth certificate or equivalent)

Cutoff 2025

The NIFT Kolkata 2025 cutoffs show a moderately competitive trend with general category closing ranks for popular courses like B.Des Fashion Design ranging roughly between 620 and 3060 across different rounds. The cutoffs for reserved categories such as OBC, SC, and ST are higher, reflecting typical category-based relaxation. Compared to previous years, some courses have seen slight fluctuations but overall maintain a stable cutoff range.

Placements 2025

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kolkata achieved a strong placement performance in 2025, with approximately 90+ offers and a placement rate around 78-85%. The highest package reached ₹12 LPA, while the average package stood at ₹4.2 LPA, reflecting steady industry engagement from top fashion and lifestyle brands.

Placement Statistics

Top Recruiters

Fashion & Lifestyle: Arvind Lifestyle Brands, Bata India, Manyavar, Monte Carlo, Nalli, H&M, Lifestyle, Reliance Brands, Titan, FabIndia, Fossil, Hidesign, Raymond, Shahi Exports, Aditya Birla Fashion, Nike, Reebok, Skybags

Retail & E-commerce: Reliance Trends, Marks & Spencer’s, Shoppers Stop, First Cry

Branch-wise Placement

Rankings & Accreditations

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kolkata holds a strong position among design institutes in India, ranked 8th in Fashion Design by India Today in 2025. It is recognized as the top NIFT campus in Kolkata and consistently ranks within the top 10 among NIFT campuses nationwide.

India Today 2025

The Week 2024

Outlook 2023

IIRF 2024

NIRF 2025

NIFT Kolkata is not separately ranked in the NIRF University, Engineering, or Management categories for 2025.

Accreditations

• NAAC: Accredited (Grade details not publicly specified)
• NBA: Not specifically listed for NIFT Kolkata programs

Scholarships & Financial Aid

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kolkata offers financial aid primarily through the SARTHAK Financial Assistance Scheme, which provides tuition fee waivers based on parental income. Additionally, the UDAAN scholarship supports foreign studies. The institute also facilitates educational loans and part-time assistantship programs to aid students financially.

Institute Scholarships

Government Scholarships

External Scholarships

• ITC and HomeShop18 Scholarships: Awards and scholarships instituted by apparel sector companies to recognize academic and creative excellence at NIFT Kolkata

Comparison

NIFT Kolkata is compared with NIFT Delhi and NIFT Mumbai as they are the most sought-after NIFT campuses and represent the top tier of fashion and design institutes in India. These three institutes are consistently ranked among the best in national design rankings and share similar course structures, placement profiles, and admission processes.

Key Strengths

• National Institute of Fashion Technology - [NIFT] Kolkata: Strong regional industry linkages, well-established B.Des and M.Des programmes, and consistent NIRF ranking among top design institutes.
• NIFT Delhi: Highest NIRF rank among NIFTs, strong academic reputation, and highest placement packages in the NIFT network.
• NIFT Mumbai: Prime location with strong industry exposure, high average and highest packages, and strong alumni network in fashion and design.

Campus & Infrastructure

NIFT Kolkata is located in Salt Lake City, Bidhannagar, approximately 13 km from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. The campus is designed to support creative education with modern facilities including specialized labs, studios, and a well-stocked resource center, serving around 950 students.

Campus Details

Academic Facilities

• Library: Extensive collection including rare books, journals, magazines, and samples related to fashion industry
• Labs: Photo Lab/Studio, Pattern Making/Draping Labs, Construction Labs, Flat Bed Knitting Lab, Computerized Knitting Lab, Weaving Lab, Textile Testing Lab, CAD Studio, MAC Lab, Jewellery Design Studio, Leather Processing Lab, Specialized Machine Labs
• Classrooms: Separate theory studios equipped with LCD projectors and workshops

Hostel

Other Facilities

• Auditorium with centralized AC
• Seminar Hall
• Video Conference Room
• Gymnasium with modern equipment
• Sports facilities: Badminton court, Basketball court, Volleyball ground, Table tennis
• Campus canteen with tea and snacks kiosk
• 24-hour Wi-Fi and wired internet connectivity
• 24-hour security with CCTV surveillance
• Medical facilities including a sick room and doctor consultation
• On-campus playground
• Shuttle bus service between hostel and campus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process and eligibility criteria for NIFT Kolkata?

Admission to NIFT Kolkata is through the NIFT entrance exam, which includes a Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT). Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent for undergraduate courses and a relevant bachelor's degree for postgraduate courses.

What are the typical cutoff ranks for admission at NIFT Kolkata?

Cutoff ranks vary yearly by program and category but generally range within the top few thousand ranks nationally, reflecting NIFT Kolkata’s competitive admission standards.

What is the fee structure for the B.Des and M.Des programs at NIFT Kolkata?

The annual tuition fee for B.Des and M.Des programs is approximately ₹2,00,000, excluding hostel and other charges. Fees are payable semester-wise through online modes.

Are scholarships or financial aid available for NIFT Kolkata students?

NIFT Kolkata offers merit-based scholarships and government scholarships for reserved categories. Students can also avail education loans from banks with NIFT’s official sanction letters.

What is the placement scenario at NIFT Kolkata?

NIFT Kolkata has a strong placement record with over 90% placement rate. Top recruiters include Raymond, Arvind, Shahi Exports, and Fabindia. Average packages range from ₹4 to ₹6 lakh per annum, with highest packages reaching ₹12 lakh.

Does NIFT Kolkata provide internship opportunities during the course?

Yes, internships are mandatory and facilitated by the institute with reputed fashion houses and textile companies, typically lasting 6-8 weeks during the summer semester.

What specializations are offered at NIFT Kolkata?

NIFT Kolkata offers specializations in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Leather Design, Accessory Design, and Fashion Communication at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

How experienced is the faculty at NIFT Kolkata?

The faculty comprises industry professionals and academicians with extensive experience in fashion design, textile technology, and related fields, ensuring practical and updated knowledge delivery.

What are the hostel facilities available for students at NIFT Kolkata?

NIFT Kolkata provides on-campus hostel accommodation exclusively for female students, with twin-sharing rooms equipped with furniture, Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, and medical facilities. The hostel capacity is around 180 students.

What is the quality and variety of food provided in the NIFT Kolkata mess?

The mess offers nutritious and hygienic meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, maintaining good food quality student reviews.

How safe is the NIFT Kolkata campus and hostel for students?

The campus and hostel have 24/7 security with CCTV surveillance, strict entry protocols, and on-call medical and psychological counseling services, ensuring a safe environment.

Is there a dress code or uniform requirement at NIFT Kolkata?

NIFT Kolkata does not enforce a strict dress code but encourages students to maintain professional and creative attire suitable for design studios and presentations.

Are laptops mandatory for students at NIFT Kolkata?

Laptops are recommended for design software and assignments, but the institute provides computer labs with necessary software for student use.

How accessible is NIFT Kolkata in terms of public transport and commute?

The campus is located in Salt Lake City, Kolkata, well-connected by public transport. The institute also provides shuttle bus services between the hostel and academic campus.

How does NIFT Kolkata compare with other NIFT campuses in terms of infrastructure?

NIFT Kolkata boasts state-of-the-art labs, design studios, and specialized textile and leather labs, comparable to top NIFT campuses, with a strong focus on textile design infrastructure.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for a degree from NIFT Kolkata?

Considering the average placement packages and industry demand, the ROI is favorable, with many graduates securing lucrative roles in fashion and textile sectors within a year of graduation.

Does NIFT Kolkata have an active alumni network?

Yes, NIFT Kolkata has a robust alumni network actively engaged in mentoring, industry collaborations, and providing placement support to current students.

What extracurricular activities and clubs are available at NIFT Kolkata?

The institute hosts various cultural fests, fashion shows, sports events, and clubs related to photography, dance, and design innovation, fostering holistic student development.

Are part-time job opportunities available for students at NIFT Kolkata?

Part-time jobs on campus are limited, but students often find internships and freelance design projects in Kolkata’s vibrant fashion industry to gain practical experience.

What kind of research opportunities exist at NIFT Kolkata?

NIFT Kolkata encourages research in textile innovation, sustainable fashion, and design technology, supported by well-equipped labs and collaboration with industry partners.