NDA
The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA).
About NDA
NDA/NA or National Defence Academy/Naval Academy Examconducted for entry into armed forces (Indian Army, Indian NavIndian Air Force) as an officer. examination is conducted by UPSC twice each year (Apr September) for both Male & Female Candidates exam is conducted to admit candidates into various mili academies post training, they are absorbed into the military wi(Army, Navy & Air Force) Earlier through NDA, only male candidates were shortlisted but fr NDA 2 2021 onwards, female candidates would be able to appear this exam. Female candidates in NDA would be given short service commission while male candidates would be given permanent commission.
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
Candidates must be:
- A citizen of India.
- A subject of Nepal, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated from specified countries intending to permanently settle in India.
Age Limit
- Typically between 16.5 and 19.5 years. Specific age cut-offs vary for each exam cycle, based on notification dates.
Educational Qualifications
- For Army Wing: Completion of 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board.
- For Air Force and Naval Wings: Completion of 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
Physical Standards
- Candidates must meet physical standards regarding height, weight, vision, and general health. Vision should generally be 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, with certain corrective measures allowed.
Selection process Syllabus
- Written Exam: Consists of two papers — Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT
- Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Vector Algebra, Probability.
- GAT:
- English: Grammar and vocabulary, comprehension, sentence structure.
- General Knowledge: Includes sections on physics, chemistry, biology, history, geography, and current affairs.
- SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates undergo a 5-day Services Selection Board (SSB) interview that includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
Exam Pattern
- For Army Wing: Completion of 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board.
- For Air Force and Naval Wings: Completion of 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
Physical Standards
- Candidates must meet physical standards regarding height, weight, vision, and general health. Vision should generally be 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, with certain corrective measures allowed.
Mathematics Paper:
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Total Marks: 300
- Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Matrices, Statistics, etc.
Application Process
- Apply Online: Applications are submitted via the UPSC website.
- Application Fee: Generally around ₹100 for General category candidates (SC/ST and certain others may be exempt).
- Admit Card: Available on the UPSC website, usually three weeks before the exam.
Important Dates
- Exam Frequency: The NDA exam is conducted twice a year, typically in April and September.
- Notification Release: Around January for NDA-I and June for NDA-II.
- Application Window: Usually open for around 3 weeks post-notification