The National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi is one of the best drama schools in India. It was started in 1959 and works under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. NSD is also linked with the Sangeet Natak Akademi, which is the national academy for music, dance, and drama.
NSD offers a 3-year Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts. In this course, students learn everything about theatre, such as acting, direction, stage design, voice, and body movement. Every year, only about 20–26 students are selected through a tough process that includes a written test, auditions, and interviews.
To support students, NSD provides a scholarship of INR 3,000 per month. However, students must sign a bond and also pay a small insurance premium every year.
NSD also helps students with placements in films, television, and theatre. Big production houses like Red Chillies Entertainment and AA Films hire talented students from here. Over the years, NSD has produced many famous actors and directors such as Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Anupam Kher, Irrfan Khan, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. These alumni have made India proud on both national and international stages.
NSD Delhi Highlights 2027
| Particular | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Location | New Delhi |
| Type of Institute | Public/ Government, Autonomous |
| Year of Establishment | 1959 |
| Affiliation | Sangeet Natak Akademi |
| Courses Offered | Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts |
| Official Website | https://nsd.gov.in/delhi/ |
NSD Delhi Courses 2027
The National School of Drama (NSD) Delhi offers a 3-year full-time Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts. This program is designed for theatre enthusiasts who wish to build a professional career in acting & theatre. Students get practical exposure by participating in a minimum of six theatre productions during the course. The course is taught in both Hindi & English. Below is the detailed information about the Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts offered by NSD Delhi in 2025:
| Course Name | Duration | Total Seats | Eligibility | Medium of Instruction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts | 3 Years (Full-time) | 26 | Graduation in any discipline with participation in at least 6 theatre productions | Hindi/ English |
NSD Delhi Admission 2027
The National School of Drama (NSD) offers admission to its 3-year Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts for candidates interested in theatre. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree and have experience in at least six theatre productions, supported by recommendations from theatre experts and documentary proof. The admission process begins in May, including an entrance exam and a 5-day workshop in New Delhi. The last date to apply is May 10. The eligible age limit is 18 to 30 years as of July 1, 2019.
Application Process For NSD Delhi Admission 2027
- Visit the official NSD website.
- Click on the ‘New Admission’ button and apply through the direct link for Indian candidates or Foreign candidates.
- Submit required documents like scanned photograph, signature, and marksheets.
- Pay the application fee (INR 100 for general, INR 50 for reserved categories).
- Download and print the application form for future reference.
- Appear for the entrance exam as per the schedule.
NSD Delhi Placements 2026
The National School of Drama (NSD) Delhi provides good placement opportunities for its students in the entertainment industry. Renowned organizations like Red Chillies Entertainment, AA Films, and others recruit from the campus. The dedicated Placement Cell supports students by offering training, workshops, and mock interviews, helping them build confidence and improve performance. These efforts ensure that students secure strong career opportunities in theatre, films and related fields.
NSD Delhi Scholarships 2027
The National School of Drama (NSD) Delhi provides financial assistance to its students in the form of a monthly scholarship of INR 3,000. However, candidates must sign a bond & submit a surety in case they discontinue the course midway. Additionally, students are required to pay a small premium for risk cover insurance. The table below provides a clear overview of the scholarship amount, conditions, and insurance requirements for NSD students.
| Scholarship Details | Amount | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Scholarship | INR 3000 | Must sign a bond of Rs. 108,000 for discontinuation and provide a surety. |
| Risk Cover Insurance | INR 150-200 annually | Students must pay the premium amount for insurance coverage. |
NSD Delhi Facilities
The National School of Drama (NSD) Delhi provides modern infrastructure and comprehensive facilities to support students’ academic, cultural, and personal development, ensuring a comfortable and engaging campus environment that fosters learning, creativity, and overall well-being.
- Auditorium: The NSD campus features a well-equipped auditorium for performances, workshops, seminars, and cultural events.
- Classrooms: Modern classrooms are designed to provide an effective and comfortable learning environment for students.
- Laboratories: Specialized laboratories support practical learning, research, and skill development in performing arts.
- Sports (Indoor and Outdoor): The campus offers indoor and outdoor sports facilities to promote physical fitness and overall health.
- Library: The library houses a wide collection of books, journals, and digital resources to aid academic and creative research.
- Hostels: Separate hostels provide safe and comfortable accommodation for students.
- Bank & ATM: Banking facilities and ATMs are available on campus for students’ financial convenience.
- Gym: A fully-equipped gym is provided to help students maintain their fitness and well-being.
- Cafeteria/Canteen: The cafeteria serves hygienic and nutritious food catering to the dietary needs of students.
- Transportation: Campus transportation facilities ensure safe and convenient travel for students and staff.
- Guest Rooms: Guest rooms are available for visiting faculty, guests, and family members.
- Medical/Health Centre: A medical and health centre is provided on campus to address students’ health needs promptly.
NSD Delhi Notable Alumni
The National School of Drama (NSD) Delhi has produced many legendary actors, directors, and theatre artists who have made a mark in Indian and international cinema. These alumni have won prestigious awards & contributed significantly to the entertainment industry. The table below highlights some of the most well-known NSD alumni and their key achievements in acting, theatre and direction.
| Name | Key Achievements |
|---|---|
| Naseeruddin Shah | Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, National Award, Filmfare Best Actor |
| Om Puri | National Award, Filmfare Award, BAFTA, Hollywood films (East is East, City of Joy) |
| Piyush Mishra | Best Actor (Julien Dubuque FF), Zee Cine Award (Best Dialogue), renowned theatre artist |
| Anupam Kher | Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, 2 National Awards, 8 Filmfare Awards, founder of Actor Prepares |
| Irrfan Khan | Padma Shri, National Award, Filmfare Best Actor, Hollywood films (Slumdog Millionaire, Jurassic World) |
| Yashpal Sharma | Noted for Lagaan, Gangaajal, Singh is Kinng, strong theatre and TV presence |
| Ratna Pathak Shah | Known for Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Lipstick Under My Burkha, Kapoor & Sons, theatre work |
| Nawazuddin Siddiqui | National Award (Special Jury), Filmfare Best Supporting Actor, acclaimed roles in Gangs of Wasseypur, The Lunchbox, Sacred Games |
| Ramesh Talwar | Renowned theatre and film director with major contributions to Indian cinema |
| Makarand Deshpande | Actor, director, playwright, known for innovative Indian theatre and films |
NSD Delhi FAQs
What course does NSD Delhi offer in 2025?
NSD Delhi offers a 3-year full-time Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts for students interested in theatre and acting.
How many seats are available for the Diploma Course at NSD Delhi?
The Diploma Course in Dramatic Arts at NSD Delhi has 26 seats in 2025.
What is the eligibility to apply for NSD Delhi’s Diploma Course?
To apply for NSD Delhi, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree and have participated in at least six theatre productions.
What is the admission process at NSD Delhi in 2025?
The NSD Delhi admission process includes a written test, audition and a 5-day workshop in New Delhi, followed by interviews.
What is the last date to apply for NSD Delhi admission in 2025?
The last date to apply for NSD Delhi admission is May 10, 2025.
What is the age limit to apply for NSD Delhi admission?
The age limit for admission at NSD Delhi is 18 to 30 years as of July 1, 2019.
Does NSD Delhi provide any scholarships to students?
Yes, NSD Delhi provides a monthly scholarship of INR 3,000, but students must sign a bond and provide a surety in case of discontinuation.
What facilities are available at NSD Delhi for students?
NSD Delhi offers auditoriums, library, hostels, classrooms, laboratories, gym, sports facilities, cafeteria, transportation, and a health centre.
What are the placement opportunities for students at NSD Delhi?
NSD Delhi students get placement opportunities with top companies like Red Chillies Entertainment and AA Films, with support from the Placement Cell.
Who are some notable alumni of NSD Delhi?
Prominent NSD Delhi alumni include Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Anupam Kher, and Ratna Pathak Shah.