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National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is an important national entrance test for enrolment in undergraduate Architecture courses. The Council of Architecture (COA) is an independent statutory organization established by the Government of India within the Ministry of Education.
COA regulates architectural education and practice and manages the registration process for architects throughout India. By offering a single examination format to conduct aptitude tests, NATA is immensely important for students nationwide. Instead of appearing in several aptitude exams, it makes it easier for students to apply for vacancies in undergraduate architectural programs in India.
NATA’s eligibility criteria involve students with an overall 10+2 exam score of 50% and a minimum cumulative score of 50% in Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics. Alternatively, applicants with a 10+3 diploma with at least 50% in Mathematics may also apply.
The two parts of the NATA exam involve Part A, comprising a drawing exam. Part B is an objective type computer-based exam with 40 questions based on analytical reasoning and 20 questions based on Mathematics.
The syllabus and topics under the NATA exam encompass a Mathematics section covering algebra, calculus, geometry, trigonometry, matrices, logarithms, statistics, and probability. The General aptitude section covers analytical reasoning, architectural elements, and built-world textures.
The Drawing section covers various parameters on geometric compositions, visualization, cognitive ability, and understanding the colour schemes.
Creative thinking and visualization skills are important to evaluate problem-solving geometric skills and effective design communication.
The NATA test is an important stage towards becoming an architect in India. However, it is possible to excel at it with the appropriate preparation!
1. Creating a study plan and setting goals
Setting up a study schedule makes allocating sufficient time for each subject easier. To learn the subject matter better, establish achievable objectives and divide it further.
2. Recommended study materials and resources
The most effective resources for studying for the NATA entrance examination are books offering NATA sample questions. Further, online guides are also useful for NATA exam preparation.
3. Mock tests and previous year question papers
Solving previousyear question papers is one of the strategies to understand the exam pattern. Attempting mock tests can highlight the areas that need more focus and enhance time management.
1. Benefits of enrolling in a coaching institute
It seeks to improve students' abilities with expert guidance and study materials to control subjects effectively.
2. Self-study techniques and resources for independent preparation
It helps in gaining confidence among students to follow different resources such as online tutorials, setting a timetable for consistent studying, and following specific study materials.
1. Online registration procedure
Go to the NATA official website, to begin with the registration process.
Click on the registration link and create a username ID and password.
After signing in, applicants can start filling out the online NATA application form.
Upload the scanned copies of the necessary documents.
Pay the NATA application fee through an online payment or bank challan.
2. Document requirements and fee payment
The documents required for the NATA entrance exam involve applicants’ recent signatures and photographs. The mode of payment for the NATA application fee can be paid through Credit Cards, ICICI Isure Bank challan, or Net Banking.
The online NATA application dates vary every year. The concerned authorities would announce the dates and deadlines for the NATA application on the official website. Therefore, stay updated with the official NATA website.
A. Essential documents and materials to carry:
Admit card copy of NATA exam, original identity proof (Aadhaar, Driving license, Passport or Voter ID). Pencil, pen, and eraser for drawing or rough work.
B. Exam-day guidelines and instructions:
Reach the exam centre on time per the given schedule, maintain discipline and bring all the essential documents to the exam centre.
C. Tips for managing time during the exam:
For the drawing section, read questions for 5 minutes thoroughly, give 45 minutes for perspective, draw a rough sketch, give 40 minutes for 3D drawing, and rest 15 minutes to complete unfinished tasks.
The NATA exam consists of 125 questions with a total of 200 marks. The scoring scheme for questions might carry one mark, two or three marks with no negative marking.
The announcement of NATA scorecards and results is declared on the online NATA official website. Students can log in to their IDs and view their scorecards and results.
NATA scores play a crucial role in the admission process, such as higher chances of admission into a reputable college, improved job opportunities, and a better understanding of the subject.
Several colleges and universities accept NATA scores but below are the top B.Arch colleges in India renowned for their quality education and infrastructure for architectural programs.
1. Sir J.J College of Architecture, Mumbai
2. Department of Architecture, IIT Roorkee
3. Chandigarh College of Architecture, Chandigarh
4. Department of Architecture, NIT Calicut
5. Sushant School of Arts and Architecture, Gurgaon
6. Faculty of Architecture and Ekistics, JMI
7. Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra
8. RV School of Architecture, RVSE, Bangalore
9. Faculty of Architecture, Manipal University
10. CEPT University, Ahmedabad
These institutions provide bachelor's degree programs in architecture, such as the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), and have admission criteria, NATA scores, and academic credentials. Students can check the relevant college websites or brochures for further information on seat allocation and other admission procedures.
Ans: Candidates with an overall score of 50% or 50% aggregate in Mathematics, Chemistry, or Physics are eligible.
Ans: Students should start by creating a study plan, following study materials and resources, and attempting mock tests.
Ans: The validity period of the NATA score is 24 months (2 years) from the date of the candidate's NATA exam. Applicants might choose to take as many as three NATA exams.
NATA represents a national-level entrance exam for undergraduate architecture programs offering a single test format for conducting aptitude tests for aspiring architects in India. It is crucial to follow the tips and strategies in exam preparation, such as creating a study plan, using recommended study materials, and solving mock tests and previous year's questions to obtain a good score in the NATA exam. NATA score is important for enrolling into reputable colleges while offering better opportunities. With dedicated preparation and consistent effort, potential candidates can achieve their goals and excel in the exam.
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