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NDA 2026 - Dates, Syllabus, Eligibility, Preparation

The NDA & NA Examination is a national-level defence entrance exam conducted by UPSC for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA). It is held twice a year and tests candidates on Mathematics and General Ability (English and General Knowledge). Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview process, followed by a medical examination. Final selection is based on merit in the written exam and SSB, subject to

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National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (NDA & NA Exam)

Conducted by: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Army Wing (NDA)Naval Wing/Air Force Wing (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA)
Admissionbuddy Team
Admissionbuddy Team

Content Writer | Updated 7 hours ago

Key Summary

•UPSC NDA & NA is a national-level 10+2 defence exam with a 900-mark written test followed by a 900-mark SSB interview for entry into NDA/INA.

UPSC NDA is India’s premier national defence entrance exam for admission to the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy after Class 12. The exam tests Mathematics and General Ability (English and GK) and is followed by the SSB interview for final selection.
The NDA & NA Examination is a national-level defence entrance exam conducted by UPSC for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA). It is held twice a year and tests candidates on Mathematics and General Ability (English and General Knowledge). Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview process, followed by a medical examination. Final selection is based on merit in the written exam and SSB, subject to medical fitness and eligibility conditions.

NDA Paper Pattern

exam Mode

Offline Based Test

exam Duration

5 hours total (2.5 hours Mathematics + 2.5 hours GAT, with a break between papers as per schedule)

total Marks

900 Marks

exam Level

UG

eligibility

Nationality: As per UPSC NDA notification (generally Indian citizens; certain categories of Nepal/Bhutan subjects and specified migrants as notified are eligible). Gender: As per current UPSC policy, both male and female candidates can apply for NDA & NA. Educational Qualification: For Army Wing of NDA—Class 12/HSC (10+2) or equivalent from a recognized board. For Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA and for Naval Academy—Class 12/HSC (10+2) or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Candidates appearing in Class 12 can also apply, subject to passing as per UPSC conditions. Marital Status: Unmarried candidates only at the time specified in the notification.

official Website

https://upsc.gov.in

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