NDA 2026 Complete Guide: Everything You Need to Know
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the gateway for young aspirants who dream of serving the nation as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Every year, thousands of candidates appear for the NDA exam to secure a place in this prestigious academy. Here is a complete guide for NDA 2026 to help you understand the process, eligibility, exam pattern, and preparation strategy.
What is NDA?
The National Defence Academy is a premier joint training institution of the Indian Armed Forces. Located in Khadakwasla, Pune, it trains cadets for the Army, Navy, and Air Force before they move to their respective academies for specialized training.
NDA 2026 Exam Overview
The NDA examination is administered by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on two occasions each year:
NDA 1 – April 2026 (Expected)
NDA 2 – September 2026 (Expected)
Eligibility Criteria
1. Educational Qualification
Army Wing: 12th pass in any stream from a recognized board.
Navy & Air Force Wings: 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics.
2. Age Limit
Candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years.
Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
3. Nationality
Must be a citizen of India.
NDA 2026 Selection Process
The selection process has two main stages:
Stage 1: Written Examination
Conducted by UPSC.
Subjects and Marks:
Mathematics – 300 Marks
General Ability Test (GAT) – 600 Marks
Total: 900 Marks
Stage 2: SSB Interview
SSB includes:
Screening Test
Psychological Tests
Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks
Personal Interview
Conference
SSB Marks: 900
Total Marks (Written + SSB): 1800
NDA 2026 Physical and Medical Standards
Candidates must meet the required physical fitness and medical standards.
Basic Physical Requirements:
Good physical and mental health
No permanent tattoos (except permitted areas)
Minimum height as per defence standards
Clear vision and hearing
NDA 2026 Exam Pattern
Subject Duration Marks
Mathematics 2.5 Hours 300
General Ability Test 2.5 Hours 600
GAT includes:
English General Knowledge Physics Chemistry History Geography Current Affairs NDA 2026 Syllabus Highlights Mathematics Algebra Trigonometry Calculus Matrices and Determinants Statistics Probability General Ability Test English: Grammar Vocabulary Comprehension General Knowledge: Physics Chemistry History Geography Current Affairs
Preparation Strategy for NDA 2026
1. Build Strong Basics
Focus on Class 10 and 11 Mathematics and Science concepts.
2. Daily Study Routine
4–6 hours of focused study Daily revision Weekly mock tests
3. Improve Physical Fitness
Running Push-ups Sit-ups Chin-ups Swimming (optional but helpful)
4. Read Newspapers
Stay updated with current affairs and defence-related news.
Recommended Books for NDA 2026
NCERT Mathematics (Class 10–12)
NDA Pathfinder (Arihant)
Objective General English (SP Bakshi)
Lucent’s General Knowledge
NDA 2026 Important Tips
Start preparation early.
Practice previous year question papers.
Maintain physical fitness.
Develop communication and leadership skills.
Stay disciplined and consistent.
Career After NDA
After completing training at NDA, cadets move to:
Indian Military Academy (Army)
Indian Naval Academy (Navy)
Air Force Academy (Air Force)
They are then commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
Conclusion
The NDA exam is one of the most respected and competitive defence exams in India. With the right preparation, discipline, and determination, you can achieve your dream of wearing the uniform and serving the nation. Start your NDA 2026 preparation today and move one step closer to your goal.
Contact:
Manasa Defence Academy
New Gajuwaka Depot, Visakhapatnam.
Andhra Pradesh-530012.
Manasa Defence Academy
New Gajuwaka Depot, Visakhapatnam.
Andhra Pradesh-530012.
call:7799799220,7799799221
call:7799799220,7799799221
web:www.manasadefenceacademy.com
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