NATA 2024: Top Architecture Colleges (NIRF Ranking 2024), Best Courses, Jobs, Benefits and Preparation Tips

National Aptitude Test in Architecture 2025 ( NATA )

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Updated on Aug 13, 2024 10:55 IST

NATA 2024 is an entrance exam conducted in India for admission to undergraduate architecture courses. The NATA exam is administered by the Council of Architecture (COA). The NATA exam dates 2024 was on every weekend from April 6, 2024, to July 28, 2024. Additional NATA examination date 2024 is on August 10, 2024, and August 24, 2024. Read more to know Top Architecture Colleges Based on NIRF Ranking, Best Courses, Benefits and Preparation Tips.

NATA Architecture

NATA Architecture

NATA 2024: NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture), is an entrance exam in India for undergraduate architecture courses, conducted by the Council of Architecture (COA). NATA exam assesses a candidate's skills in areas such as drawing, observation, sense of proportion, aesthetic sensitivity, critical thinking, and mathematics. NATA is a computer-based test held multiple times a year across various centres in India. The NATA exam dates are announced on the official website. 

Explore colleges based on NATA

Roorkee
#1 NIRF
₹10 L
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges
Ahmedabad
#6 NIRF
₹19.98 L
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges
Howrah
#4 NIRF
₹6.25 L
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges
Delhi
#7 NIRF
₹80.75 K
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges

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Nagpur
#10 NIRF
₹6.25 L
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges
Chennai
#11 NIRF
₹13.75 L
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges
Bhopal
#12 NIRF
₹2.5 L
Ranked in the top 50 by NIRF
Chandigarh
#13 NIRF
₹11.1 L
Ranked in the top 50 by NIRF
Vijayawada
#16 NIRF
₹2.13 L
Ranked in the top 50 by NIRF
Thiruvananthapuram
#18 NIRF
₹43.25 K
In Top 10 %ile by Average Salary of B.Arch Colleges
View allCollections

Eligibility for the NATA exam requires candidates to have completed their Class 12 or equivalent examination with at least 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. NATA application form is generally available from March. NATA is a vital step for students aiming to pursue a career in architecture, as successful candidates can gain admission to top architecture colleges across the country.

Q:   When will NATA 2025 be conducted?

A:

NATA 2025 will be held every weekend from April to July 2025.  The candidates will be able to attempt maximum three tests of NATA 2025 and the best score will be considered for admission. The authorities will conduct the entrance examination as a computer-based test and offline test for all eligible candidates. 

Q:   Will there be a drawing section in NATA 2025 paper?

A:

Yes. The CoA has added the drawing and composition section in the NATA paper. During the examination, the candidates will have to attempt questions on composition and colour, sketching and composition (black and white) and 3D composition. All three questions have to attempted within 90 minutes. Therefore, the candidates are advised to carefully prepare for the drawing and composition section.

Q:   Will NATA be held online?

A:

NATA will be conducted by the authorities as an online  i.e., computer-based and offline test. The MCQ section will be held as a computer-based test, while the drawing and composition test will be held as an offline test. CoA will conduct NATA at various centres. All registered candidates will have to report to their allotted centres and attempt the examination through the systems provided there. The detailed information regarding NATA exam pattern has been announced online.

Benefits of NATA Exam

Qualifying the NATA exam is a significant milestone that opens numerous opportunities in the field of architecture.
  • Passing the NATA exam qualifies the candidates to apply for undergraduate architecture courses at various colleges across India. Based on the NATA scores, the candidates can apply to their preferred colleges.
  • After earning an undergraduate degree in architecture, candidates have the option to pursue a Master's degree in the field or work as an architect in various firms, or government organisations, or even start their practice.
  • It's important to remember that passing the NATA exam is just the initial step towards a successful career in architecture. Continued hard work, creativity, and skill development are essential for long-term success in this profession.

Top 25 Architecture Colleges Based on NIRF Ranking 2024

The candidates can check the table below for the names of the Top 25 Architecture Colleges in India based on the NIRF Ranking. The candidates can apply to the best architecture colleges by knowing the NIRF Ranking of the colleges. 

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Q:   How can I create a good timetable for NATA preparation?

A:

Creating a timetable is very important for the preparation process of NATA. Students are advised to prepare a timetable that will allow them to complete the syllabus well before the examination. While creating the timetable, the candidates should ensure that the entire syllabus is equally distributed. The subjects and topics should be divided well so that the candidates cover different units in a day and the studying process does not become monotonous. The daily study routine should also include revision and mock test. It is very important that the timetable is created considering the aptitude of the candidate.

Q:   Where can I check the NATA exam centres?

A:

CoA will prepare and release the list of NATA exam cities online at nata.in. From the list of exam cities released by the authorities, the candidates will be able to make their choice. The preferred three exam cities for NATA has to be selected in the order of preference while filling out the application form. The allotment of NATA exam centres will be done based on the candidate's preferences and availabilty of centres. The candidates will be able to check the details of their allotted exam centres through the NATA admit card.

Q:   I have not been allotted into my first preferred NATA exam city. What should I do?

A:

It is to be noted that there are chances of cases arising where the candidates will not be allotted centres within their first preferred NATA exam city. The allotment of centres will depend on many factors including preferences, centre availability, total number of candidates for the particular test centre, etc. Hence, the authorities can add or remove centres as per the requirements. If the first preferred city is not available due to some particular reason, then the candidates will be allotted centres as per their second and third preference. 

Q:   Which items are prohibited in the NATA exam centre?

A:

Candidates are advised to check the details on the prohibited items carefully before reporting to the exam centre. No electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators, watches, laptops, etc., will be allowed inside the centre. Candidates will be required to just present a print out of their NATA hall ticket and identity proof for verification to enter the exam centre. Candidates are also advised to leave their expensive items at home or with their parents/guardians since the authorities will not be responsible for its loss.

Architecture Colleges NIRF Ranking
India Institute of Technology, Roorkee 1
India Institute of Technology, Kharagpur 2
National Institute of Technology, Calicut 3
Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur 4
School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi 5
Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology University 6
Jamia Millia Islamia 7
National Institute of Technology Tiruchirappalli 8
National Institute of Technology Rourkela 9
Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology Nagpur 10
S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology 11
School of Planning and Architecture Bhopal 12
Chandigarh University 13
Aligarh Muslim University 14
Malaviya National Institute of Technology 15
School of Planning and Architecture Vijayawada 16
Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology 17
College of Engineering, Trivandrum 18
Nirma University 19
Birla Institute of Technology 20
M. S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology 21
Dr. M. G. R. Educational and Research Institute 22
BMS College of Architecture 23
Lovely Professional University 24
Amity University 25

Best Architechture Courses

India offers many top architecture courses for students interested in pursuing a career in architecture. Here are some of the top architecture courses in India:
  • Bachelor of Architecture (BArch): This five-year undergraduate course focuses on design, construction, and the use of space. It is a popular choice for students aiming to become architects.
  • Bachelor of Planning (BPlan): This four-year undergraduate course centres on urban planning and design, covering topics such as urban development, transportation planning, and environmental planning.
  • Diploma in Architecture (DArch): This two-year diploma course provides students with the basic skills and knowledge required to become architects.
  • Master of Architecture (MArch): This postgraduate course is available to students who have completed their undergraduate degree in architecture. It emphasises advanced design, technology, and research.
  • Master of Planning (MPlan): This postgraduate course focuses on advanced planning techniques, research, and technology in urban planning and design.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Management (PGDUPM): This one-year postgraduate diploma course focuses on urban planning and management, including urban development, transportation planning, and environmental planning.
  • Integrated March: This five-year integrated course combines a bachelor's degree in architecture with a master's degree in architecture.

Top Architecture Colleges in India

The list of Top BArch Colleges in India that accept NATA scores.
  • Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy College of Architecture, Mumbai: It is one of the oldest architecture colleges in Asia. The institute offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in architecture, namely the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) and the Master of Architecture (M.Arch). The B.Arch degree is a five-year full-time program, while the M.Arch degree is a two-year full-time programme.
  • IIT Roorkee: The Department of Architecture and Planning at IIT Roorkee was the first institute in India to offer a master's degree course in architecture. As a modern institution, it has earned a distinguished reputation in the field of architecture. The architecture courses provided by IIT Roorkee are of an exceptional standard.
  • Chandigarh College of Architecture: It is one of the leading architectural institutes in Punjab. It offers a five-year full-time Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) course. Over the years, the college has received significant recognition for its excellent teaching methods in the field of planning and design.
  • NIT Tiruchirappalli: The Department of Architecture at NIT Tiruchirappalli, a public engineering and technology university, is ranked as the 4th best architecture college in India by Outlook through NATA. It offers one of the most promising architecture degrees in India. For years, it has enriched students' lives with comprehensive knowledge of architectural designs and concepts.
  • NIT Calicut: The Department of Architecture at NIT Calicut has steadily become one of India's most prominent institutions for architectural studies. It boasts some of the best faculty members who mentor, assist, and guide students. The diverse course structure has contributed to the college's remarkable growth in rankings.

Jobs After Architecture Course

Job opportunities in the field of architecture become available after the completion of the course. Here are some career paths you can explore:
  • Architect: Work with architectural firms, real estate companies, construction companies, or government organisations. Responsibilities include designing buildings, overseeing construction projects, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Interior Designer: Design functional and aesthetically pleasing interiors for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. Opportunities include working with architectural firms or starting your own interior design business.
  • Urban Planner: Plan and design cities and communities to ensure they are sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Employment can be found with government organizations, planning agencies, or architectural firms.
  • Landscape Architect: Design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and public spaces. Potential employers include government organizations, landscape design firms, or architectural firms.
  • Set Designer: Create sets for movies, theatre productions, and other performances. Work opportunities are available with production companies, theatres, or event management companies.
  • Construction Manager: Oversee construction projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. Employment can be found with construction companies, architectural firms, or real estate companies.

NATA Preparation Tips

Here are NATA preparation tips that will help candidates to score well in the exam.

  • Start Early: Begin NATA exam preparation as early as possible—ideally six months before the exam. This will allow ample time to cover all topics and refine various drawing techniques.
  • Manage Your Time: Develop a study plan and adhere to it. Allocate specific time slots for both NATA and board exam preparation. Strive to maintain a balance between the two to avoid overwhelming yourself.
  • Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for enhancing your drawing skills and aptitude. Regularly engage in drawing, sketching, and designing to improve your sense of proportion, observation skills, and critical thinking.
  • Take Mock Tests: Regularly taking mock tests can help you assess your preparation level and pinpoint areas of weakness. Aim to complete at least one mock test each week to track your progress and identify areas that need improvement.
  • Focus on Key Topics: Prioritise important topics for the NATA exam, such as drawing, mathematics, and reasoning. Ensure that you cover all topics outlined in the NATA syllabus.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest trends and developments in architecture by reading journals, books, and articles. This will provide valuable knowledge and insights into the field.
  • Maintain Your Health: Prioritise your physical and mental well-being. Ensure you get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and take breaks to prevent burnout and fatigue.
About the Author

Dhanya specialises in writing content on engineering colleges and related exams. She is a Post-Graduate in Physics with 5+ years of work experience in the education industry. With a natural talent for the creative a... Read Full Bio

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Answered a week ago

Yes, NATA is one of the accepting exams for admission to Sister Nivedita University BArch programme. Aspirants can also apply with SNUET scores for BArch. SNUET is an online multiple choice test conducted by the university. Aspirants have to fill out the university application form to appear for SNU

...more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

Important dates related to NATA is from April to July. Examination runs for 4 months every weekends with 3 attempt. You can give Examination of Nata and then apply for cllg as per your preference. If college is under government university, you have to wait for counselling process. Or If cllg is Priv

...more

M

Manisha Kumari

Beginner-Level 1

Answered 2 weeks ago

While your NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) and JEE Paper 2 scores are crucial for securing admission to architecture programs, your Class 12 marks still play an important role, especially in meeting eligibility criteria and in the overall selection process. 

Most institutes require a mi

...more

R

Rupesh Katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

The Tamil Nadu School of Architecture in Coimbatore requires a minimum score of 50% in the NATA exam for admission to the B.Arch course. To be eligible for admission, candidates must also have completed 10+2 with Physics Chemistry, Mathematics as a main subject.

The NATA qualifying cutoff is the mini

...more

A

Alesha Patel

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 3 weeks ago

Yes, you can appear for NATA more than once in a year. In fact, candidates are allowed to take the NATA exam up to three times in a year.The option to appear multiple times allows candidates to improve their scores if they are not satisfied with their first attempt. The best score from the attempts

...more

A

Aishwarya Garg

Beginner-Level 3

Answered 4 weeks ago

Yes, it can be observed that studying at top Architecture colleges can be expensive as most of the colleges have an average tuition fee of more than INR 5 lakh:

Fee RangeNo. of Colleges
< INR 1 lakh2 colleges
INR 1-2 lakh1 college
INR 2-3 lakh3 colleges
INR 3-5 lakh4 colleges
> INR 5 lakh24 colleges

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 4 weeks ago

India is home to 35 best Architecture colleges in India that accept NATA out of which 16 colleges are government-owned and the rest 11 colleges are owned by private entities. 

J

Jiya Singh

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a month ago

The NATA result date for 2024 has been announced, and the scorecards are available online after each exam phase. The NATA exam is held in multiple phases, and the results are typically released soon after each exam. The official NATA website provides updates on specific result release dates. You can

...more

U

Utkarsh Jain

Contributor-Level 8

Answered a month ago

For Tamil Nadu B.Arch admissions in 2024, both JEE Main and NATA exam dates are significant as they are among the entrance requirements. Here is a summary of the key dates:

JEE Main (for B.Arch Admissions)

  • Registration:
    • Phase I: November 1 to December 4, 2023
    • Phase II: February 14 to March 10, 2024
  • Exam

...more

S

Shiv Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

No, it is not mandatory to appear for both NATA and JEE Main Paper 2 for eligibility in COMEDK B.Arch. counselling. Candidates need a valid score in either NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) or JEE Main Paper 2 (Architecture) to be eligible.

This flexibility allows students to choose eithe

...more

D

Dhanya B

Contributor-Level 10