All About National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) 2014

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is a prerequisite for admission to the five-year undergraduate architecture programme in various government, government-aided and unaided schools/colleges of architecture.

NATA scores are accepted by major institutions such as School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi; College of Architecture, Delhi; University School of Architecture and Planning, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi; and Sir JJ college of Architecture, Mumbai.

What is NATA?

“Besides measuring an applicant’s aptitude for studying architecture, NATA checks their drawing and observation skills, aesthetic sensitivity, critical thinking ability and sense of proportion. The two-part test has an online section based on aesthetic sensitivity followed by a test on drawing. The total duration is about three hours,” says Professor Inderjit Singh Bakshi, member, Council of Architecture. The drawing test is for two hours and aesthetic sensitivity test comprises 40 questions.

The drawing test is meant to judge a candidate’s ability to sketch a given object proportionately, envisaging and drawing the impact of light on objects.

The ability to think on relevant subjects and having a sense of perspective are also important.

Aspirants are also required to mix the 3D elements to form a building or structure. The online test is meant to determine a candidate’s imagination, creativity and communication ability.

The test is conducted by the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Architecture. NATA 2014 will begin from March 1, 2014, with the registration process beginning around February 15, 2014.

Eligibility

Candidates with 50% marks in 10+2 or equivalent examination with mathematics as one of the subjects are eligible for admission to the five-year BArch course.

What is the passing score at NATA?

As per the Council of Architecture regulations, a candidate applying to any school/ college of architecture in India should have achieved 40% score in NATA, i.e. at least 80/200, for consideration of admission into first year B.Arch.

Source: HT Education