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NDA Exam 2026
Get complete details on NDA Exam 2026 including eligibility, age limit, syllabus, exam dates, and application steps. Start your NDA 2026 preparation here.
NDA Exam 2026: Complete Guide on Eligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern & Application Process
If you are planning to appear for the NDA Exam 2026, this detailed guide will help you understand every part of the process. The NDA exam is one of India’s most prestigious defence exams. It selects candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy.
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What Is the NDA Exam 2026?
The NDA Exam 2026 is conducted by the UPSC to recruit young candidates for officer training. As per the official notification, the exam date is 12 April 2026. This exam evaluates your academic ability, general awareness, mental aptitude, and officer-like qualities.
NDA Exam Date 2026
UPSC has officially announced the exam schedule:
- NDA 1 2026 Exam Date: 12 April 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 30 December 2025
- Admit Card Release: One week before the exam
If you want your preferred exam centre, apply as early as possible.
NDA Vacancy 2026
UPSC has released 394 vacancies for NDA & NA Exam (I) 2026. These include seats for both male and female candidates.
- Army: 208
- Navy: 42
- Air Force: 120 (Flying + Technical + Non-Technical)
- Naval Academy: 24
These numbers may change depending on training capacity.
NDA Eligibility 2026
To apply for the NDA Exam 2026, you must meet these conditions:
1. Nationality Requirements
You must be:
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal, or
- A person of Indian origin who migrated from specific countries intending to settle in India
2. NDA Age Limit 2026
You must be born between:
2 July 2007 and 1 July 2010
Both male and female candidates can apply.
3. Educational Qualifications
- Army Wing: 12th pass
- Navy, Air Force, Naval Academy: 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics
Students appearing in Class 12 are also eligible.
4. Physical Standards
You must meet the physical and medical standards prescribed in the official notification.
NDA Exam Pattern 2026
The NDA Exam 2026 consists of two stages:
1. Written Examination
2. SSB Interview
If you clear the written exam, you will appear for the SSB Interview, which carries 900 marks. This includes:
- Psychological tests
-
GTO tasks
-
Personal interview
Air Force candidates must also take the CPSS pilot aptitude test.
NDA Syllabus 2026
Understanding the NDA syllabus 2026 is essential for strong preparation.
Mathematics Syllabus
Key topics include:
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Matrices & Determinants
- Analytical Geometry
- Calculus
- Vector Algebra
- Statistics & Probability
GAT Syllabus (General Ability Test)
English (200 Marks)
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
- Comprehension
General Knowledge (400 Marks)
Covers:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- General Science
- Indian History
- Geography
- Current Affairs
Physics carries the highest weightage in the GAT section.
How to Apply for NDA Exam 2026
Here are the steps to apply online:
- Visit the UPSC website: upsconline.nic.in
- Complete registration to generate your URN
- Fill out the Common Application Form (CAF)
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee (₹100 unless exempt)
-
Select your exam centre
-
Submit the form before 30 December 2025
No correction or withdrawal is allowed after submission.
NDA Exam Centres 2026
The NDA exam will be held in more than 80 cities across India, including:
-
Delhi
-
Mumbai
-
Kolkata
-
Chennai
-
Bengaluru
-
Lucknow
-
Hyderabad
-
Pune
Centres fill up quickly, so apply early.
Conclusion
The NDA Exam 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students who want to join the Indian Armed Forces. By understanding the eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and application process, you can prepare efficiently and confidently.
Start early and follow a structured preparation strategy. With dedication and the right guidance, you can achieve your dream of becoming an NDA cadet.