The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the NDA & NA Examination 2026 to recruit candidates for admission into the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy. The exam is held twice a year — NDA 1 (April) and NDA 2 (September).

About NDA Exam

The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam is one of India’s most prestigious defence entrance examinations conducted by UPSC. It selects eligible male and female candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of NDA and the Indian Naval Academy (INA). The selection process includes a written exam and the SSB interview.

📍 Location: National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Pune, Maharashtra, India.

NDA Exam 2026 Overview

Important Dates for NDA 2026

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen (or as per UPSC norms for Nepal/Bhutan).
• Age Limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
  • NDA 1 2026: Born between 2 July 2006 – 1 July 2009
  • NDA 2 2026: Born between 2 Jan 2007 – 1 Jan 2010
• Educational Qualification:
  • Army Wing: 12th pass (any stream)
  • Air Force & Navy: 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics
• Gender: Both male and female candidates are eligible.

Exam Pattern

💡 Total Marks: 900 (Written) + 900 (SSB Interview) = 1800 Marks

Syllabus Overview

• Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry, Differential & Integral Calculus, Statistics, Probability, Matrices & Determinants.
• English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Sentence Usage.
• General Knowledge: Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.

Selection Process

1. Written Examination (Mathematics + GAT)
2. SSB Interview (Psychological Test, Group Tasks & Personal Interview)
3. Medical Examination
4. Final Merit List based on total marks (Written + SSB)

Training & Career Path

Selected candidates undergo comprehensive training at NDA, Pune, which includes academic, physical, and leadership development. After successful completion:

• Army Cadets join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
• Naval Cadets join the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
• Air Force Cadets join the Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad

💡 Note: During training, cadets receive a stipend of ₹56,100/month. Post-commissioning, a Lieutenant earns ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500/month plus allowances.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official UPSC website: www.upsc.gov.in
2. Click on “Apply Online” → “One Time Registration (OTR)” → NDA & NA Exam 2026.
3. Fill in personal, academic, and communication details carefully.
4. Upload scanned photograph and signature, then pay the ₹100 fee (if applicable).
5. Submit the application and print a copy for reference.

📅 NDA 1 Exam: 12 April 2026 | NDA 2 Exam: 14 September 2026

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