What Is the Negative Marking Scheme in NATA?
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20263 min read
Quick Summary
Total Marks: 200 | Negative Marking: None | Qualifying Threshold: 70/200
As of the 2027 examination cycle, there is no negative marking scheme in the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA). Candidates can attempt all questions without the risk of marks deduction for incorrect answers. The total paper is evaluated out of 200 marks, with a minimum qualifying threshold typically set at 70 marks.
The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) is designed to evaluate a candidate's drawing, observation, and architectural awareness skills. For the 2027 session, the Council of Architecture (CoA) maintains a candidate-friendly approach by omitting negative marking. This structure encourages students to attempt all questions, as there is no penalty for incorrect responses.
The exam is conducted for a total of 200 marks. Because there is no negative marking, the strategy for students shifts from 'risk management' to 'time management.' Ensuring that you attempt every question, even if you are unsure of the answer, is a critical component of maximizing your aggregate score. Always refer to the latest information brochure on the official NATA website to confirm if any minor structural adjustments have been made for the upcoming phase.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Total Marks: 200
- ✓Negative Marking: Zero
- ✓Qualifying Score: Minimum 70 marks (subject to annual revisions)
- ✓Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
According to official CoA notifications and NIRF-aligned institutional benchmarks, the NATA score is a primary gateway for B.Arch admissions in India. While the exam does not penalize incorrect answers, candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks to be eligible for seat allocation in top-tier architecture schools. Historically, the qualifying threshold is set at 70 out of 200, though this is subject to change based on the difficulty level of the paper and the number of applicants.
Students are strictly advised to download the official NATA 2027 Information Brochure from the official portal (nata.in). Reliance on third-party predictors for cutoff trends should be secondary to official institutional disclosures. When evaluating your potential for admission, always cross-check the specific cutoff requirements of your target university, as many institutions also weigh 12th-grade PCM marks alongside the NATA score.
Institutional Fee vs Placement ROI Matrix
Compare tuition fees, program duration, packages, and ROI ratings
Quick Comparison
| College / Institution | Total Fee (Approx) | Duration | Real Avg Package | Top Recruiters | ROI Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPA Delhi | ₹1.5L - ₹2.5L | 5 Years | ₹8-12 LPA | Architectural Firms | High |
| CEPT University | ₹12L - ₹18L | 5 Years | ₹6-10 LPA | Design Studios | Moderate |
| JJ College of Arch | ₹3L - ₹5L | 5 Years | ₹5-8 LPA | Construction Firms | High |
Verified Fee Benchmarks: Figures reflect audited notifications and semester schedules.Source: Official Circulars & Mandatory Disclosures
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Verify Official Syllabus
Download the latest NATA brochure from the official website to identify weightage across sections.
2Step 2
Strategic Attempting
Since there is no negative marking, prioritize completing the entire paper within the allotted time to maximize scoring potential.
3Step 3
ROI Evaluation
Compare your expected NATA score against the historical cutoff trends of your preferred colleges using the Kampus Filter discovery tool.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is there negative marking in NATA 2027?
No, there is no negative marking in the NATA 2027 examination. You will not lose marks for incorrect answers.
What are the minimum qualifying marks for NATA?
The minimum qualifying mark is generally 70 out of 200. However, please check the official NATA brochure for the most current academic year requirements.
How should I prepare for NATA given the marking scheme?
Since there is no negative marking, focus on time management and attempting all questions. Prioritize accuracy, but ensure you complete the entire paper to maximize your score.
Institutional Data & Fee Transparency Disclaimer
Fee structures, cutoff percentiles, and placement statistics published on Kampus Filter are compiled from official university prospectuses, NIRF statutory filings, UGC/AICTE public notifications, and institutional disclosures. All figures represent comparative historical benchmarks and are subject to periodic revisions by respective university governing bodies.
Prospective students and guardians are advised to verify current academic session fees, seat matrices, and admission deadlines directly with the official university admissions office prior to financial commitments. Kampus Filter is an independent higher education research directory and does not solicit donations or represent university administration.