UPSC NDA 2026 – National Defence
Academy Exam Complete Guide
Join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as a commissioned officer. NDA I 2026 written exam held on 13 April 2026. NDA II 2026 notification expected June 2026 — prepare now.
1. What is UPSC NDA 2026?
💡 NDA I 2026 Written Exam Held — Result Expected June 2026
NDA I 2026 written exam was conducted on 13 April 2026. The result is expected in June 2026. SSB interviews for qualified candidates will begin July–October 2026. NDA II 2026 notification is expected in June 2026 — start your preparation now for the September cycle.
UPSC NDA (National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination) is a national-level entrance test conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. It is the premier pathway for school-leaving students to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers after undergoing training at the prestigious National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Pune.
The selection process has two stages: a written examination (Mathematics + General Ability Test) and a 5-day SSB (Services Selection Board) interview. Candidates who qualify both and clear the medical examination are admitted to a 3-year joint services training programme at NDA, followed by 1 year of pre-commissioning training at IMA (Army), INS Zamorin / Naval Academy (Navy), or Air Force Academy (Air Force).
NDA is open to male and female candidates (women eligible since 2021 per Supreme Court order) who have passed or are appearing in Class 12. The age window is narrow — 16.5 to 19.5 years — making this one of the youngest entry points into the Indian Armed Forces as an officer.
2. 📅 Important Dates – NDA 2026
NDA I 2026 written exam was held on 13 April 2026. Result and SSB dates are pending. 💡 Key update: NDA II 2026 notification is expected in June 2026 — start preparing now for the September exam.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NDA I 2026 – Official Notification Released | 8 January 2026 | Completed |
| NDA I 2026 – Online Application Window | 8 Jan – 28 Jan 2026 | Completed |
| NDA I 2026 – Admit Card Available | 20 March 2026 | Completed |
| NDA I 2026 – Written Exam Conducted | 13 April 2026 | Completed |
| NDA I 2026 – Provisional Answer Key Released | April 2026 | Completed |
| NDA I 2026 – Written Exam Result (Expected) | June 2026 (TBN) | TBN |
| NDA I 2026 – SSB Interviews (Expected) | July – October 2026 (TBN) | TBN |
| NDA I 2026 – Final Merit List (Expected) | November 2026 (TBN) | TBN |
| 💡 NDA II 2026 – Notification Expected | June 2026 | Expected |
| NDA II 2026 – Application Window (Expected) | June – July 2026 | Expected |
| NDA II 2026 – Written Exam (Expected) | September 2026 | Expected |
| NDA II 2026 – SSB Interviews (Expected) | November 2026 – Feb 2027 | Expected |
| NDA Joining (Course 156 / NDA I 2026) | January 2027 (Expected) | Expected |
⚠️ TBN = To Be Notified. All Expected/TBN dates are based on UPSC historical patterns and may change. Always verify on upsc.gov.in.
3. 🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Age Limit
Candidates must be 16.5 to 19.5 years old as on 1st day of the course commencement month.
Educational Qualification
Candidates appearing in Class 12 (final year) are also eligible to apply.
Nationality & Gender
Must be a citizen of India. Subjects of Nepal and Bhutan are also eligible as per Government norms.
Physical Standards
Candidates must be physically and mentally fit as per military standards. Key requirements:
- • Height: Minimum 157 cm (Army/Air Force), 157 cm (Navy)
- • Weight: Proportionate to height and age
- • Vision: 6/6 corrected for Army; Air Force (Flying) requires 6/6 without glasses
- • Must not have flat foot, knock knee, or colour blindness
4. 📊 Vacancies & Services – NDA 2026
| Service / Wing | NDA I 2026 | NDA II 2026 | Training Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Army | 208 | TBN | National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla |
| Indian Navy | 42 | TBN | National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla |
| Air Force (Flying) | 92 | TBN | National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla |
| Air Force (GS) | 18 | TBN | National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla |
| Air Force (Electrical) | 10 | TBN | National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry) | 36 | TBN | Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala (Kerala) |
| Total | 406 | TBN |
Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) cadets train at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala — not at NDA Khadakwasla.
5. 🗂️ Selection Process
Written Examination (Stage 1)
Two papers: Mathematics (300 marks, 2.5 hrs) and General Ability Test (600 marks, 2.5 hrs). Conducted at UPSC exam centres across India. Total: 900 marks. Negative marking applies.
SSB Interview (Stage 2)
Services Selection Board (SSB) interview — 5 days. Includes psychological tests, Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks, and personal interview. 900 marks. Only written exam qualifiers are called for SSB.
Medical Examination
Conducted at military hospitals (AFMSDs). Strict physical and medical standards must be met. Unfit candidates are granted one opportunity to appeal at a review medical board.
Final Merit List
Based on combined written exam (900) + SSB interview (900) = 1800 marks. Candidates are allocated wings (Army/Navy/Air Force) based on merit preference and vacancy availability.
Training at NDA / Naval Academy
3-year joint services training at NDA Khadakwasla (Army, Navy, Air Force). Naval Academy cadets train at Ezhimala. Followed by 1 year pre-commissioning training at respective service academy.
6. 📋 Exam Pattern – NDA Written Exam 2026
| Subject | Questions | Total Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 120 | 300 | 2.5 hrs | −0.833/wrong |
| General Ability Test (GAT) | 150 | 600 | 2.5 hrs | −1.333/wrong |
| Total (Written) | 270 | 900 | 5 hrs |
GAT (General Ability Test) Breakdown
| Part | Marks | Major Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Part A – English | 200 | Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Fill in the Blanks |
| Part B – GK / General Science | 400 | Physics (25%), Chemistry (15%), General Science (10%), History (20%), Geography (20%), Current Affairs (10%) |
7. 📚 Detailed Syllabus – NDA 2026
Mathematics (Paper 1)
- ▸Algebra – Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Permutations & Combinations, Binomial Theorem
- ▸Matrices & Determinants – Types, Operations, Inverse, Cramer's Rule
- ▸Trigonometry – Identities, Heights & Distances, Inverse Trigonometric Functions
- ▸Analytical Geometry of 2D – Lines, Circles, Parabola, Ellipse, Hyperbola
- ▸Differential Calculus – Continuity, Differentiability, Maxima & Minima
- ▸Integral Calculus & DEs – Integration, Area, Differential Equations
- ▸Vector Algebra – Scalar & Vector Products, Work & Torque Applications
- ▸Statistics & Probability – Mean, Median, Mode, Variance, Probability, Binomial Distribution
English (Part A of GAT)
- ▸Grammar & Usage – Parts of Speech, Tenses, Active/Passive, Direct/Indirect
- ▸Vocabulary – Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases
- ▸Reading Comprehension – Unseen passages
- ▸Cohesion in Extended Language – Para Jumbles, Fill in the Blanks
- ▸Spotting Errors & Sentence Correction
Physics (Part B – General Knowledge)
- ▸Physical World, Units & Measurements
- ▸Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work & Energy
- ▸Gravitation, Properties of Bulk Matter, Thermodynamics
- ▸Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Magnetic Effects
- ▸Electromagnetic Induction, Light – Reflection & Refraction
- ▸Modern Physics – Atomic Models, Nuclei, Semiconductors
- ▸Sound Waves, Natural Phenomena
Chemistry (Part B – GK)
- ▸Basic Concepts – Elements, Compounds, Chemical Reactions
- ▸States of Matter – Solids, Liquids, Gases, Atomic Structure
- ▸Periodic Classification of Elements
- ▸Acids, Bases & Salts, Chemical Bonding
- ▸Metals & Non-metals, Fuels & Combustion
- ▸Carbon Compounds, Food & Nutrition, Safety & Explosives
General Knowledge – History, Geography, Polity, Current Affairs
- ▸History – Indian Freedom Movement, World History (French Revolution, WWI, WWII)
- ▸Geography – Physical & Economic Geography of India, Maps, Climate
- ▸Indian Polity – Constitution, Parliament, Fundamental Rights, Defence Forces
- ▸General Science – Biology basics, Health & Nutrition
- ▸Current Affairs – National & International events, Defence, Science & Tech
- ▸Social Studies – UN, International Organizations, Discoveries
8. 🎯 SSB Interview – What to Expect
The SSB interview is a 5-day process conducted at Selection Centres across India. It carries 900 marks — equal to the entire written exam. The SSB assesses 15 Officer Like Qualities (OLQs) including leadership, initiative, intelligence, and integrity.
Stage 1 – Screening (Day 1)
Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test + Picture Perception & Description Test (PPDT). Only screened-in candidates continue for 4 more days.
Stage 2 – Psychological Tests (Day 2)
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), and Self Description (SD).
Stage 2 – GTO Tasks (Days 3–4)
Group Discussion, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Task (PGT), Half Group Task, Individual Obstacles, Command Task, Final Group Task (FGT).
Stage 2 – Personal Interview (Day 3 or 4)
One-on-one interview with a Psychologist/GTO/IO panel. Assesses Officer Like Qualities (OLQs): Courage, Integrity, Leadership, Initiative, Confidence.
Conference (Day 5)
All three assessors (Psychologist, GTO, IO) discuss your performance. Recommended candidates proceed for medical.
Medical Examination
Conducted at Military Hospital. Strict standards: vision, height, weight, hearing. Arm/Navy/Air Force have different vision standards.
💡 Key Insight: Only about 25–35% of candidates who appear for SSB are recommended. Personality development, physical fitness, and genuine leadership qualities matter far more than rote preparation. Start developing these qualities during your written exam preparation itself.
9. 💰 Salary, Allowances & Benefits
| Stage | Pay / Stipend | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cadet Training (3 years at NDA + 1 year IMA/Naval Acad/AFA) | ₹56,100/month (as per 7th CPC, likely revised under 8th CPC) | Training period |
| After Commission – Lieutenant (Army) / Sub Lieutenant (Navy) / Flying Officer (AF) | Pay Level 10: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500/month + allowances | Starting rank |
| All-inclusive in-hand (incl. Military Service Pay, DA, HRA, Kit allowance) | ₹80,000 – ₹1,10,000/month | Effective take-home |
Post-Commission Allowances & Perks
Free Accommodation
Government accommodation (or HRA of 24%–27% of basic pay in lieu) at all postings.
Free Medical (ECHS)
Free medical treatment for officer and family through ECHS hospitals throughout India.
Education Allowance
Children Education Allowance for up to 2 children up to Class 12.
LTC & Travel
Leave Travel Concession and free travel passes for family. Officers and family can travel free on Indian Railways (Air Force by Air).
Military Service Pay
Additional ₹15,500/month Military Service Pay on top of basic pay for all ranks.
CSD Canteen & Club
Access to CSD canteen for discounted goods. Exclusive Officers Mess and Service clubs at all stations.
10. 📅 NDA 2026 Preparation Roadmap (6-Month Plan)
Month 1–2 — Maths Foundation
Cover Class 11–12 Maths thoroughly: Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, and Calculus. Use NCERT + R.S. Aggarwal (NDA/NA). Target: 60 Maths questions daily. Physical fitness routine: 5 km run + push-ups/sit-ups.
Month 3 — GAT – English & Science
English: Grammar rules, vocabulary from Word Power Made Easy. Physics: Class 11–12 NCERT (all chapters). Chemistry: Class 9–12 NCERT basics. Give 1 GAT mock test per week. Track accuracy per subject.
Month 4 — GAT – History, Geography, Current Affairs
History: NCERT Class 12 + Indian Freedom Struggle. Geography: NCERT Class 11–12. Current Affairs: Read The Hindu / Indian Express daily. Maintain a GK diary for quick revision.
Month 5 — Full Mock Tests + Weak Area Revision
Give 2 full-length NDA mock tests per week (both papers in one sitting). Analyse errors. Target 50%+ in Maths and 60%+ in GAT. Revise Physics and History weekly. Start SSB reading (Arihant SSB Guide).
Month 6 — Final Revision + SSB Personality
Revise all formula sheets and GK notes. Give mock tests with strict time limits. Start SSB Personality Development: group discussions with friends, self-description writing, current affairs debates.
11. 📖 Best Books for NDA 2026
| Subject | Book Title | Author | Free PDF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Mathematics for NDA & NA | R.S. Aggarwal | — |
| Mathematics | NCERT Mathematics Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Download → |
| English | Word Power Made Easy | Norman LewisBuy | — |
| Physics | NCERT Physics Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Download → |
| Chemistry | NCERT Chemistry Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Download → |
| General Knowledge | Lucent's General Knowledge | Lucent PublicationsBuy | — |
| SSB Interview | Let's Crack SSB Interview | Arihant Publications | — |
| Previous Papers | NDA/NA Chapterwise-Sectionwise Solved Papers | Arihant | — |
12. 💡 Expert Tips for NDA 2026
Maths is non-negotiable
The Maths paper has 120 questions for 300 marks. You need at least 40–50% to qualify. Start NCERT Class 11–12 Maths from Day 1 — do not skip this subject.
Physical fitness starts on Day 1
NDA is not just a written exam. SSB interviews test your physical and mental stamina. Start running 5 km daily and basic exercises (push-ups, sit-ups) from the very first day of preparation.
English in GAT is the easiest 200 marks
The 200-mark English section is straightforward — grammar, comprehension, and vocabulary. Consistent daily practice of 20–30 questions can push your GAT score significantly.
NCERT is your backbone
Almost 70% of the GAT General Knowledge section is directly from Class 9–12 NCERTs (History, Geography, Physics, Chemistry, Biology). Cover these before going to any other reference book.
SSB is a personality test, not a GK test
SSB interviews are assessed over 5 days. They look for Officer Like Qualities (OLQs) — leadership, initiative, team spirit, integrity. Start developing these from now: join a team sport, take leadership roles, practice group discussions.
Apply twice a year
NDA is conducted twice a year — NDA I (April) and NDA II (September). You can appear for both cycles in the same year if you meet the age criteria. Plan your preparation to peak for April, then target September as a second attempt.
Use the negative marking wisely
Maths: −0.833 per wrong answer. GAT: −1.333 per wrong. Accuracy matters more than speed. For questions you are genuinely unsure about, it is better to skip than guess randomly.