If you’re planning to pursue architecture in India, the NATA entrance exam is your gateway to top architecture colleges. But here’s a common dilemma students face every year:
“How many NATA attempts should I take — one, two, or all three?”
In this post, we’ll help you decide how to approach the NATA 2025 attempts strategically. Plus, we’ll guide you on how to maximize your performance using smart preparation and expert coaching.
What is the NATA Exam?
NATA full form is the National Aptitude Test in Architecture. It is conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission to undergraduate architecture courses (B.Arch) across India.
Unlike other entrance exams, NATA evaluates your drawing ability, architectural awareness, reasoning, math, and critical thinking. The exam is entirely online (except for the drawing section, which is digital) and is accepted by most architecture colleges in India.
If you’re wondering “what is NATA exam”, it’s your ticket to getting into institutions that value creative thinking and design aptitude over rote learning.
NATA Exam Dates 2025
The NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) 2025 will be held from March 7th to August 9th, 2025, with tests scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays.
NATA application last date for the final session is June 25, 2025
NATA 2025 Registration opened on February 3, 2025
Make sure to complete your registration and fee payment on time to secure your preferred test date. For context, the NATA exam date 2024 ranged from April to July, and the NATA exam date 2023 followed a similar pattern.
How Many NATA Attempts Are Allowed?
You can take up to three attempts in one academic year.
Your best score from all attempts will be considered for admission. This flexible format lets you improve your performance across sessions without penalty.
Can Last Year’s NATA Score Be Used?
Yes. As per the latest CoA guidelines, a valid NATA score from the previous year (e.g., 2024) can also be used for admission in the next academic year (e.g., 2025) — provided it falls within the validity period and is accepted by the college you’re applying to.
This is especially helpful if you scored well in 2024 but took a drop year or delayed your admission. However, always check with your preferred institute if they accept past-year scores before applying.
How to Decide Which NATA Attempts to Take
Not sure which attempt(s) to go for? Here’s how to choose wisely based on your preparation level and goals:
Attempt 1: The Early Advantage
- Ideal for students who start preparing early (in Class 11 or early Class 12).
- Gives you real-time experience with the NATA exam question paper format.
- Helps you assess your strengths and weaknesses.
Best for: Confident students who’ve covered most of the NATA syllabus by March.
Attempt 2: The Strategic Score Booster
- Most students show significant improvement in their second attempt.
- You’ll already know what to expect and can refine your strategy.
- Focus on time management, weak areas, and question types.
Best for: All students — this is statistically the highest-scoring attempt.
Attempt 3: The Final Push
- Use this to improve your best score or recover from underperformance.
- Helps those aiming for top-tier colleges or chasing cut-off marks.
Best for: Students who want to secure a top score or felt unprepared earlier.
NATA Exam Syllabus & Preparation Tips
The NATA exam syllabus includes:
- Cognitive skills in reasoning, logical thinking, and visualization
- Drawing and design aptitude
- Mathematics and general aptitude
- Architecture awareness and observation
Practice regularly using:
- NATA previous year question papers
- Attempt Mock tests
- Timed drawing practice and mental ability quizzes
Check out our blog for more information on how to prepare for NATA in 6 Months
NATA Registration Process
To apply for NATA 2025:
- Visit the official portal: www.nata.in
- Complete your NATA registration and choose your test sessions
- Upload documents and pay the fee
- Download your admit card before each attempt
Be sure to check for updates on the NATA 2025 registration date and deadlines. Once missed, you can’t register for that session.
FAQs About NATA Attempts
Q. Can I take all three NATA attempts?
Yes. In fact, it’s recommended if you’re looking to improve your score or aim for top colleges.
Q. Will my college see all three scores?
No. Only your best score among the attempts will be used for admissions.
Q. Do I need to apply separately for each attempt?
You can register for all sessions in one go or choose sessions individually before each deadline.
Why Choose Vantage for NATA Coaching?
At Vantage Design School, we help you prepare for NATA in a way that’s smart, structured, and stress-free with our NATA Exam online coaching. Here’s why hundreds of students choose us each year:
- Expert faculty and one-on-one feedback for every drawing submission.
- Assignments, quizzes, and full-length mock tests for every topic.
- Online-first model that gives you the flexibility to learn anywhere.
- Capstone projects that boost your portfolio.
Whether it’s your first NATA attempt or the final round, we’ll help you bring your A-game.
Final Thoughts
Choosing how many NATA attempts to take depends on your prep level, but taking at least two gives you a real edge. Use every attempt as a stepping stone to learn, improve, and raise your score.
And remember — success in NATA isn’t about perfection in one try. It’s about progress with every attempt. With the right coaching and consistent practice using NATA question papers, you can unlock your best performance.
With Vantage Design School by your side, your dream of becoming an architect is just a few smart choices away.
