The NTA NIFTEE 2026 Provisional Answer Key has been released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on February 17, 2026, for the General Ability Test (GAT) paper of the NIFT Entrance Examination.
This provisional key, along with candidates' recorded response sheets, is available on the official portal, allowing test-takers to verify their answers, estimate scores, and raise objections if needed before the final key is prepared.
This key applies to the GAT section for admissions to NIFT's UG and PG programmes, including B.Des, B.F.Tech, M.Des, M.F.Tech, and MFM. Note that no answer key is released for the CAT (Creative Ability Test) as it lacks a model solution.
NTA NIFTEE 2026 Provisional Answer Key Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | NIFT Entrance Examination (NIFTEE) 2026 – GAT paper |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Purpose of Exam | Admission to NIFT UG & PG fashion design and technology programmes |
| Answer Key Type | Provisional answer key for NIFTEE 2026 (GAT) |
| Answer Key Status | Released on February 17, 2026 |
| Mode of Release | Online via candidate login on NTA NIFT portal |
| Official Website | exams.nta.nic.in/niftee |
Important Dates Related to NTA NIFTEE 2026 Answer Key
| Events | Dates 2026 |
|---|---|
| NIFT Entrance Exam (NIFTEE 2026) date | February 8, 2026 |
| Provisional answer key & response sheet release | February 17, 2026 |
| Objection window for provisional key | February 17 to February 19, 2026 (till 11:50 PM) |
| Final answer key release | Expected March–April 2026, after objections |
| NIFT Entrance Exam result declaration | After the final key, as per the NTA/NIFT schedule |
How to Download NTA NIFTEE 2026 Provisional Answer Key
-
Visit the official NTA NIFT portal: exams.nta.nic.in/niftee.
-
Look for and click the link “Display of Provisional Answer Keys and Recorded Response Sheet for Answer Key Challenge for NIFT Entrance Examination – NIFTEE – 2026”.
-
Log in using your Application Number/Roll Number, Date of Birth, and security pin.
-
Select the relevant exam/paper (GAT) and booklet series if prompted.
-
View/download the provisional answer key PDF and your recorded response sheet.
-
Save and print for reference, score estimation, and objection purposes.
NTA NIFTEE 2026 Provisional Answer Key – Direct Download Link
How to Raise Objections Against NTA NIFTEE 2026 Provisional Answer Key
-
Eligibility: Only candidates can challenge discrepancies during the window.
-
Steps:
-
Log in to exams.nta.nic.in/niftee with your credentials.
-
Navigate to the “Challenge Provisional Answer Key” or objection section.
-
Select the question(s) to challenge, choose your claimed correct option, and provide justification (text/reference/document).
-
Upload supporting proof if required (in specified format/size).
-
Pay the non-refundable fee of ₹200 per challenged question online.
-
Submit before the deadline (February 19, 2026, 11:50 PM).
-
Valid objections are reviewed, and changes (if any) are reflected in the final key, which is binding and cannot be challenged further.
How to Calculate Your Score Using NTA NIFTEE 2026 Provisional Answer Key
-
Download the provisional key and your response sheet from the portal.
-
Refer to the official marking scheme in the information bulletin (typically + marks for correct answers; negative marking may apply for wrong answers in GAT – confirm from your admit card/bulletin).
-
Count:
-
Correct answers × marks per correct question.
-
Wrong answers × negative marks (if applicable).
-
-
Estimated score = (Marks from correct) – (Negative marks from incorrect).
This is tentative; NTA calculates final scores using the final answer key, with possible normalization if applicable.
NTA NIFTEE Result 2026 – What Happens After the Provisional Answer Key?
After the objection window closes, NTA reviews challenges and releases the final answer key (expected March–April 2026). Results are then prepared based on this final key and published as scorecards on the candidate login portal, showing section-wise and total marks.
Download your scorecard using your application number and DOB. Qualified candidates proceed to NIFT counselling for seat allocation across campuses, based on merit, category, and preferences.
Useful Preparation & Planning Tips While Waiting for NIFTEE 2026 Result
-
Start preparing your portfolio (for design programmes) with sketches, projects, and creative work.
-
Practice for situation tests or studio tests, if applicable – focus on drawing, visualization, and design concepts.
-
Explore backup options like other fashion/design entrances or institutes to stay prepared.
