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

NIFT Shillong conducts admissions for undergraduate (BFM, B.F.D), postgraduate (M.FD, MFD). Admission is entirely on an entrance basis, with the NIFT Entrance Exam (CAT + GAT) as the key evaluation for UG courses. For getting admitted to design programmes, a simple situation-based test takes place, while PG programmes are being followed by an interview after the GAT exam.

The tentative timeline proposed for online registration in NIFT Shillong will start in November 2025, followed by an entrance exam in February 2026, results in April 2026, and counselling/document verification in May 2026.

This structured application process at NIFT Shillong ensures transparency and helps students prepare effectively for a career in fashion design, technology, and management.

NIFT Shillong Dates & Events 2025

NIFT Shillong has set the schedule for its 2025 admission cycle. Registration (online) for all UG, PG, and CE programmes will begin this year on 15 November 2025, and the last date to submit applications is 31 March 2026. The BFD Situation Test registration will close by 31 January 2026. The NIFT Entrance Exams (CAT + GAT) for the UG programmes at NIFT Shillong is scheduled to be in February 2026, and PG interviews are conducted between late May and early June 2026. 

Merit results at NIFT Shillong are expected to come out in April 2026, and counselling & document verification processes will take place in May 2026. This timeline helps applicants plan effectively and stay ahead in their admission process.

NIFT Shillong Eligibility Criteria 2025

• UG Programmes: Admission is based on the NIFT Entrance Exam, which has the creative ability test (CAT) and general ability test (GAT). For design courses, a situation test is also required. Extra marks can be given for sports or cultural achievements.

• PG Programmes: Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree with 50% or more from a recognised university. Admission to MFD or MFM is through the GAT exam and a personal interview.

This planned eligibility makes sure that the NIFT Shillong students have the keen interest in academic foundation and creative aptitude to excel in NIFT’s rigorous programmes.

The 2025 batch at NIFT Shillong saw increasing placement trend trajectory, with more and more students landing roles in leading fashion houses and retail brands. Top offers reached around INR 5.7 LPA, while the average salary package reached INR 4.3 LPA, reflecting the growing need for skilled designers and fashion managers in the current markets. 

Key recruiters here at NIFT Shillong included Raymond, Amazon, Snapdeal, H&M, Reliance, and Aditya Birla, covering roles in design, merchandising, production, and retail management. Internships are offered here at NIFT Shillong for fundamental industry exposure with stipends going up to INR 1 Lakh/month, helping students gain practical experience and often secure early job offers from their internship companies.

The NIFT Shillong's industry-focused curriculum and live projects ensured students were ready for the challenges of the fashion industry, making placements smoother and more targeted towards their skills and interests.

NIFT Shillong Scholarships 2025

At NIFT Shillong, students don’t have to worry too much about finances, as the institute offers scholarships for both factors, i.e., merit and financial need, for students aspiring to study in the fashion and design field. If you’ve done really well in the NIFT Entrance Exam (CAT + GAT) or got a strong academic record, you can get merit-based support. 

There are also need-based scholarships for students who need financial help and special scholarships for women in design, differently-abled students, and defence wards. These scholarships mainly cover tuition fees and are renewed if you keep performing well, making it easier for talented students to focus on learning and building their fashion careers.