Understanding the Full Form and Purpose of NATA: The National Aptitude Test in Architecture

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is a critical examination for aspiring architecture students in India. This test is designed to evaluate candidates on their aptitude and drawing skills. This comprehensive guide will explore the purpose and details of the NATA, including the full form, eligibility criteria, test structure, and participating institutions.

What is NATA?

National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is a standardized test conducted by the Council of Architecture (COA), a statutory body under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India. The test aims to measure the basic aptitude, creativity, and drawing skills required for a career in architecture.

Conducting Organization

The National Institute of Advanced Studies in Architecture (NIASA), a body under the Council of Architecture (COA), in New Delhi, India, conducts the NATA.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the NATA is based on the completion of a secondary education and the inclusion of mathematics as a subject.

Secondary Education Completion

Candidates who have passed their secondary education, typically 10 2 or an equivalent exam, are eligible to appear for the NATA. Mathematics must be one of the subjects taken in the secondary education exam.

Diploma Holders

Candidates who have completed a 10 3 diploma with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in any stream (including commerce with mathematics) are eligible to apply for the NATA.

Commerce Stream with Mathematics

Commerce stream students with a minimum of 50% marks in mathematics at the 12th standard level are also eligible to appear for the NATA. However, it is important to note that candidates from the commerce stream are not directly eligible for architecture programs but can pursue alternative routes after demonstrating adequate aptitude.

Test Structure

The NATA is a two-hour test divided into two sections: Aptitude Test and Drawing Test.

Aptitude Test

The Aptitude Test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and is conducted in an online format. This section evaluates the candidate's understanding of basic mathematical and logical concepts, as well as their analytical abilities.

Drawing Test

The Drawing Test is a practical assessment of the candidate's drawing and spatial skills. Candidates are required to create drawings and sketches based on given instructions. This section is considered to be of equal importance as the aptitude test.

Scoring and Merit Calculation

The NATA consists of 300 marks in total, with 120 marks allocated to aptitude questions and 80 marks to the drawing section. Candidates need to secure a minimum of 70 marks to pass the test. The final merit score is calculated by taking the NATA score and dividing it by two, then adding the secondary education board percentage (out of 100), and dividing the total by two.

Participating Institutions

Many prestigious architecture institutions in India accept NATA scores for admissions. Some of the well-known institutions that accept NATA scores include:

Anna University, Chennai Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology Shibpur, University Ahmedabad Jadavpur University, Kolkata Andhra University College of Engineering, Visakhapatnam Sayajirao University of Baroda Mizoram University SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore

Therefore, the NATA plays a crucial role in determining the eligibility and progression of aspiring architects. It is essential for candidates to be well-prepared to secure a successful performance and gain admission to top architecture institutions in India.