How to become an architect in India: NATA vs JEE Paper 2

To become an architect in India, you complete a 5-year B.Arch degree recognised by the Council of Architecture (COA) and then register with COA. There are two main entrance routes. NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) - Conducted by COA. Accepted by most architecture colleges across India, including many state and private colleges. - Tests drawing, visual reasoning, spatial ability, general aptitude and maths. The exact format is announced each year. JEE Main Paper 2A (B.Arch) - Conducted by NTA. Used for B.Arch admissions at NITs, IIITs and SPAs (Schools of Planning and Architecture) through JoSAA, and some other institutes. - Has maths, aptitude and a drawing test. - IIT B.Arch programmes need JEE Advanced plus the AAT. Which should you take? Many students take both. JEE Paper 2 for NITs/SPAs, NATA for a wider set of colleges. Eligibility: Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics plus one more approved subject (such as Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science or Engineering Graphics) and at least 45% aggregate, or a 10+3 diploma with maths and 45%. Check the current COA notice. Skills that matter - Freehand sketching and perspective drawing. Practise daily. - 3D visualisation and spatial thinking. - Observation: buildings, spaces, how people use them. After B.Arch: practice, urban planning, landscape, interior and sustainable design, BIM/computational design, or M.Arch. Early-career pay can be modest; it grows with experience and your own practice. Guidopia's Career DNA measures spatial reasoning and Artistic interest, both central to architecture.