National College of Arts, Lahore / Rawalpindi Entry Test 2026-27
About This Entry Test
The National College of Arts selects undergraduates through its own drawing and aptitude tests (plus a mathematics paper for Architecture), followed by an interview. Admission is held once a year with tests conducted across Pakistan. This page covers the undergraduate entry test requirement for National College of Arts, Lahore / Rawalpindi profile.
Test at a Glance
| Test name | NCA Admission Tests (drawing and aptitude tests; maths for Architecture) plus interview |
| Conducted by | NCA (applications routed through NTS and NCA website) |
| Applies to | All undergraduate programmes. Fine Arts, Multimedia Art, Design: drawing and aptitude tests. Architecture: drawing, aptitude and mathematics examination. Music, Cultural Studies, Film & Television: departmental aptitude tests. All degree admissions require an NCA interview. |
| Eligibility | Intermediate/HSSC or equivalent (12 years) with at least 45% (second division); third division not eligible; result-awaiting candidates may apply. |
| Schedule | Admissions once a year (typically tests mid-year before the academic session). Dates: check official website. |
| Merit weightage | Not published; candidates must obtain high grades in drawing and aptitude tests and clear interview. Check official website. |
Test Format
Multi-stage: written/drawing aptitude tests held in all provinces once a year, followed by interview. MCQ counts, marks and durations: check official website/prospectus.
Eligibility
Intermediate/HSSC or equivalent (12 years) with at least 45% (second division); third division not eligible; result-awaiting candidates may apply.
How to Register
Apply on prescribed form through NCA website (nca.edu.pk) or NTS; submit attested SSC/HSSC, domicile, CNIC, photos, medical fitness certificate and guardian income affidavit. Fee: check official website.
Test Schedule 2026-27
Admissions once a year (typically tests mid-year before the academic session). Dates: check official website.
Merit Formula
Not published; candidates must obtain high grades in drawing and aptitude tests and clear interview. Check official website.
Preparation Tips
- Practise observational drawing daily (still life, figure, perspective) as the drawing test is central.
- Build a small portfolio and be ready to discuss it at interview.
- Architecture applicants should revise intermediate mathematics.
- Read about art, design and culture to prepare for aptitude/general awareness questions.
- Download the official prospectus for the exact stages and dates.
Official Links
- Official test / admission page
- National College of Arts, Lahore / Rawalpindi profile on Pak Student Hub
- Admission schedules and Merit Calculator
- How university merit is calculated
- ECAT vs NET vs NAT – which test to take
- All entry tests
Last updated: 18 October 2026. Test patterns, fees and dates are set by the university or test body and change every year. Always confirm on the official website before registering.
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