The National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination is one of the most prestigious competitive exams in Indiaconducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) .One Can Be join as Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force after selection . Every year, lakhs of students apply to fulfill their dream of serving the nation.
Here In this Artiicle we will cover all the Complete and Updated details about NDA 1 2026, including important dates, eligibility criteria, application steps, exam pattern, and selection process.
- Exam Name: National Defence Academy (NDA) & Naval Academy (NA) Examination
- Conducting Body: UPSC
- Exam Level: National
- Exam Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper) (OMR)
- Frequency: Twice a year (NDA I & NDA II)
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
NDA Exam Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | NDA I | NDA II |
| Notification Release | January | May |
| Application Start | January | May |
| Last Date to Apply | February | June |
| Admit Card Release | March | August |
| Written Exam Date | April | September |
| Result Declaration | May | October |
Note: Exact dates are yet to be announced in the official UPSC notification.
NDA Eligibility Criteria
1. Nationality
- Indian citizen, or
- Subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or
- Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1962 (as per UPSC rules)
2. Age Limit
- General date of Candidates must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years
- Date of birth range is specified in the official notification
3. Educational Qualification
- Army Wing: Passed or appearing in Class 12 (any stream)
- Air Force & Navy: Passed or appearing in Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible
NDA (I) 2026
- Notification Release: January 2026
- Last Date to Apply: February 2026
- Admit Card Release: March 2026
- Written Exam Date: April 2026
- Result Declaration: May 2026
NDA (II) 2026
- Notification Release: May 2026
- Last Date to Apply: June 2026
- Admit Card Release: August 2026
- Written Exam Date: September 2026
- Result Declaration: October 2026
NDA Application Form – How to Apply
Candidates can apply online through the UPSC website. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official UPSC portal
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill out the NDA application form
- Upload photograph and signature
- Pay the application fee
- Submit the form and download confirmation
Application Fee
- ₹100 for General/OBC candidates
- SC/ST/Female candidates: No fee
- Online apply here : https://upsc.gov.in/apply-online
NDA Exam Pattern
Written Examination
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 Hours |
| Paper II | General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2.5 Hours |
| Total | 900 |
GAT includes:
- English (200 marks)
- General Knowledge (400 marks)
NDA Selection Process
The NDA selection process is conducted in two stages:
Stage 1: Written Examination
Candidates must qualify the UPSC written exam.
Stage 2: SSB Interview
Qualified candidates are called for a 5-day SSB interview, which includes:
- Intelligence tests
- Psychological tests
- Group tasks
- Personal interview
Final Merit List
The final selection is based on:
- Written exam marks
- SSB interview performance
- Medical fitness
NDA Training Details
Selected candidates undergo training at:
- National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla
- Naval Academy, Ezhimala
After training, cadets are commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
Why Choose NDA After 12th?
- Prestigious career in defence
- Leadership and discipline
- Attractive salary and allowances
- Respect and pride of serving the nation
- Early entry into the armed forces
Preparation Tips for NDA Aspirants
- Build strong basics in Mathematics and English
- Focus on NCERT books for General Knowledge
- Practice previous years’ question papers
- Take regular mock tests
- Maintain physical fitness
Final Words
The NDA exam is not just an examination—it’s a gateway to a life of honor, discipline, and service. If you dream of wearing the uniform and leading from the front, start your preparation early and stay consistent.
For more NDA updates, syllabus, PYQs, and preparation strategies, keep visiting Competition Prepare.
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NDA exam notification 2025 released by UPSC. Check NDA eligibility, important dates, application process, exam pattern, syllabus, and selection process in detail.