NDA EXAM
The NDA exam, conducted by the UPSC for the Indian Armed Forces, is a two-stage process involving a written exam and an SSB interview. The written exam consists of two papers—Mathematics and General Ability Test—which are objective in nature. Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age, nationality, and marital status, and for the Air Force and Navy wings, a 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics is mandatory. The exam is held twice a year.
NDA EXAM | 2026
NDA Exam Pattern
Stages:
The selection process has two stages: a written exam followed by the SSB
interview.
Written
Exam:
Papers:
Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT).
Total
Questions: 270 questions.
Mathematics
Paper: 120 questions, 300 marks, duration 2.5 hours.
General
Ability Test (GAT): 150 questions, 600 marks, duration 2.5 hours.
Type:
Objective type, multiple-choice questions.
Topics:
Mathematics:
Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry,
Statistics, and Probability.
GAT:
English, General Knowledge (including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History,
Geography, and current events).
You can
watch this video to learn about the selection process for the National Defence
Academy (NDA):
Eligibility
Criteria
Nationality:
Citizens of India, Nepal, or Bhutan. Tibetan refugees who settled in India
before January 1, 1962.
Age: 16.5
to 19.5 years.
Marital
Status: Must be unmarried.
Educational
Qualification:
Army Wing:
10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
Air Force
& Naval Wings: 10+2 or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics.
Physical
Standards: Must meet the physical standards laid down by the authorities.
Other
Information
Exam
Schedule: The exam is conducted twice a year.
Notification:
Check the official UPSC website for exam dates.
SSB
Interview: The SSB interview includes a physical fitness test, psychological
tests, group discussion, and a personal interview.
