UPSC NDA 2025 Mock Test: Download NDA Mock Test PDF Here

National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Exam 2025 ( NDA )

DeskCalelnderExam On - 13 Apr '25

Anangsha Patra
Updated on Jan 8, 2025 14:11 IST

By Anangsha Patra, Deputy Manager – Editorial

NDA Mock Test 2025: NDA aspirants must prepare themselves for the most sought-after defence exam by practising NDA mock test series. Solving NDA mock tests help candidates to keep a track of their performance and improvement. Besides, such online test series give candidates the right frame of mind for the examination day. NDA syllabus is not a tough nut to crack but most candidates face problems in time management and strategy. Solving mock tests help candidates to develop their own strategies and manage time.

According to NDA exam pattern, there are 150 questions in General Ability Test (GAT) and 120 in Mathematics. To score well in the exam, candidates need to pick and solve questions strategically. This is where solving UPSC NDA mock tests helps.

Candidates must solve and analyse at least two NDA mock tests in a week to improve speed and accuracy of solving questions. Candidates can even increase the number of mock tests to at least 3 to 4 two weeks prior NDA exam.

Q:   What is NDA mock test?

A: 
NDA Mock test is a test that is exactly similar to the actual exam. Questions are in the same format as the actual exam and candidates need to solve in the same time limit. Solving NDA mock test gives candidates a perfect idea about the final exam. It also helps candidates to analyse their performance and check where they stand in the competition.
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Q:   Is NDA exam tough to crack?

A: 
NDA exam is known to be highly challenging and competitive exam. The exam tests the knowledge and aptitude of candidates in subjects such as Mathematics, General Ability and English . However, with proper preparation and practice, it is possible to crack the exam. It is important to note that success in the NDA exam also depends on factors such as dedication, focus, and time management.
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Q:   How many times can a candidate appear for the NDA exam, and what is the minimum qualifying marks required to pass?

A: 

NDA exam is conducted twice a year by UPSC. Candidates can appear for both the sessions of NDA exam. NDA 1 exam is conducted for admission to the courses commencing in January. NDA 2 exam is conducted for admission to the courses commencing in July. To qualify each section of the NDA exam, candidates need to secure 25 per cent in each subject. NDA exam is conducted to select candidates for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Fotce wings of National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy.

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Q:   Do past years' question papers help in clearing the NDA?

A: 
Past years' question papers can be a valuable resource for preparing for the NDA exam. They can provide candidates with an understanding of the types of questions that may be asked, the format of the exam, and the level of difficulty. However, it is important to note that the NDA exam is constantly evolving, and the questions may change from year to year. Therefore, it is important to use past years' question papers in along with other study materials and resources, such as practice tests, study guides, and tutorials.
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Q:   What questions are asked in NDA exam?

A: 

Questions in NDA exam are asked from the below-mentioned topics:

Mathematics: Algebra, Calculus,  Matrices and Determinants,  Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry,  Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and  Probability. 

GAT: The GAT syllabus of NDA is divided into two parts. Part A comprises questions from English, while Part B carries questions from General Knowledge. Questions in English part are asked from Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary,  Comprehension, and Cohesion. Questions in General Knowledge are asked from Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

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Table of content
  • NDA Exam Pattern
  • NDA Syllabus
  • What are the benefits of Solving NDA Mock Tests?
  • NDA Mock Test
  • NDA Mock Test FAQs
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NDA Exam Pattern

The structure of NDA exam pattern is given below.

Papers Subject Maximum marks Duration

Paper 1

Mathematics

300

2 ½

Paper 2

GAT

600

2 ½

Total

900

5 hours

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions

Q:   What is NDA exam pattern?

A: 
The written exam of NDA comprises two papers-Mathematics and General Ability Tests (GAT). The Maths paper carries 120 questions and the GAT carries 150 questions. Total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. Candidates qualifying the written exam are called for SSB interview. SSB Interview is divided into two stages. Candidates qualifying the Stage 1 are called for the Stage 2 exam. Stage 1 of the SSB Interview comprises Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT). Stage 2 comprises Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference
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Q:   Is the NDA exam MCQ type?

A: 

According to the NDA Exam Pattern, the NDA Exam will be conducted in offline mode, and all questions will be MCQ type. The exam is given in both English and Hindi. The question paper will consist of two sections: Mathematics and GAT. The total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. Candidates qualifying the written exam are called for SSB interview. The SSB Interview carries 900 marks.

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Q:   What questions are asked in an NDA SSB interview?

A: 
The questions that are asked in an NDA SSB interview are given below: 1) What is the meaning of your name? 2) How did your GTO and Psychology go, how many individual obstacles could you do, were you able to answer all the questions in psychology. 3) Why the IAF over the Army and Navy? 4) Tell me about your education background, the schools you've studied in (8th grade onwards), your marks, your favourite teacher, the teacher you disliked, favourite subject, disliked subject. 5) Tell me about the extracurricular and sport activities you actively took part in, your achievements, reason for taking part in those particular activities, level at which you participated. 6) Name few of your best friends from childhood, what do you like in them, what do you dislike in them, who supported you the most, what do they like in you, what do they dislike in you, who was your role model at school, reason for drop in percentage. 7) What are your weaknesses, how do you deal with them, is there any short coming you recently over came, how did you do so. 8) Tell me about your family background, the members of your family, what is their occupation, what do you like in each one of them, what do you dislike, what do they like in you, what do they dislike in you, which parent are you the closest to, why. 9) What is your routine on a holiday, how much pocket money do you get, how do you spend your money. 10) Tell me any 2 national and international news which you've come across recently. 11) Tell me how does an aircraft fly? What's the mechanism and principle. 12) What are your roles and responsibilities in your family, how do you help your family members and friends.
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Q:   What are the total marks of the NDA written exam?

A: 
The total marks allotted to NDA written exam are 900. The GAT paper carries 600 marks and Maths paper carries 300 marks. Yes, there is a sectional cutoff in NDA written exam. Candidates need to secure 25 per cent in each subject to qualify the exam. Besides, candidates are also required to secure the overall cut off marks prescribed for Army, Navy and Air Force.
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Q:   How many questions are asked in NDA exam?

A: 
A total of 120 questions are asked in the Maths paper of NDA. Questions are usually asked from Algebra Matrices and Determinants Trigonometry Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimensions, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, and Differential Equations Vector Algebra Statistics and Probability. In the GAT part of the NDA exam, a total of 150 questions are asked. This section is divided into parts. Part A comprises questions from English and Part B comprises questions from General Knowledge. In English questions are generally asked from Spotting Errors, Antonyms, Synonyms, Idioms, and Phrases and Fill in the Blanks. In General Knowledge, questions are asked from Physics Chemistry Biology Indian Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Defence Specific, Current Affairs & Static GK, etc.
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NDA Syllabus

NDA syllabus is of Classes 10, 11, and 12 standards. The syllabus of NDA is given below:

Mathematics: Algebra, Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and Probability. 

GAT: The GAT syllabus of NDA is divided into two parts. Part A comprises questions from English, while Part B carries questions from General Knowledge. Questions in English part are asked from Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion. Questions in General Knowledge are asked from Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

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Commonly asked questions

Q:   What is NDA syllabus?

A: 

NDA syllabus is prescribed by the examination authority so that candidates can know what they need to prepare for the exam. The standard of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11 and 12 levels. NDA syllabus is divided into two parts-Maths and GAT. NDA Maths syllabus carries questions from Algebra Calculus, Matrices and Determinants Integral Calculus and Differential Equations Trigonometry Vector Algebra Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and Probability.. NDA GAT syllabus carries questions from topics such as Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion. Questions in General Knowledge are asked from Physics Chemistry Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

 

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Q:   Where can I get NDA syllabus?

A: 

NDA syllabus is prescribed by UPSC. The syllabus is mentioned on the notification. NDA syllabus is divided into Maths and GAT. The standard of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11 and 12 levels. The total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. NDA Maths syllabus comprises topics such as Algebra, Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and  Probability. NDA GAT syllabus comprises topics such as Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion, Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

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Q:   Are NDA and CDS syllabus same?

A: 

NDA exam is conducted for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy Course. CDS exam is conducted to select eligible candidates for Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers Training Academy (OTA).

NDA and CDS syllabus are different. Candidates can check below in detail:

The level of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11 and 12 levels. Whereas, the standard of CDS syllabus is of graduation level. NDA syllabus is divided into Maths and GAT. CDS syllabus is divided into Elementary Maths, English and General Awareness. The total marks allotted to the NDA written exam are 900. The total marks allotted to the written exam of CDS are 300 for IMA, INA and AFA and 200 for OTA. 

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Q:   What level of math questions are asked in NDA?

A: 

The Paper 1 of NDA Maths section carries 300 marks. The exam comprises of 120 questions in maths from Class 12 level. For each correct answer,   candidate get 2.5 marks. Additionally, 0.83 mark is deducted for wrong response. Questions in Maths are asked from Algebra, Calculus,  Matrices and Determinants,  Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry,  Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and  Probability. 

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Q:   Where can I find NDA syllabus PDF?

A: 

NDA syllabus PDF is provided on this page. The syllabus PDF comprises the important topics related to the exam. Candidates can download the syllabus PDF and start preparing for the exam. With good practice, candidates can ace the exam. 

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View Syllabus
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What are the benefits of Solving NDA Mock Tests?

To prepare for the exam, it is important to give NDA mock tests as it helps to learn from the mistakes. Here are few benefits of solving NDA mock test:

  • Mock tests are considered practice tests before candidates appear for the final exam. Attempting NDA mock test, will boost candidate’s confidence and overcome their mistakes
  • NDA mock tests help in strategizing for the exam as to how to crack and clear the exam
  • Mock tests are like benchmarking took which help candidates to measure their level of preparedness
  • NDA mock tests help candidates in identifying their weaknesses and focus on the same
  • Each mock test that candidates attempt to help them to learn and improve their performance
  • The test helps candidates learn new techniques for solving questions
  • It is difficult to solve all questions in the exam with accuracy, therefore, solving more mock tests will help

Related Links:

NDA Preparation Tips NDA Books NDA Salary
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions

Q:   How many hours should be given to study for NDA?

A: 
Everyday candidates should study for two to three hours on regular basis. Categorize the course as per your comfort and start preparing. Practice previous year question paper as much as possible. Candidates must be thorough with the syllabus and exam pattern. They should prepare study routine and follow it seriously. Candidates must also solve mock test.
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Q:   How much time is required for NDA Exam Preparation?

A: 

The ideal time required for NDA preparation is one year to six months. During the preparation phase, candidates must focus on all subjects and topics relevant to the exam. Candidates must consider solving the NDA question papers. They should also attempt mock tests to increase speed and accuracy. Candidates must be thorough with the exam pattern and syllabus. The tips and tricks to prepare for NDA exam are given below:

  • To begin with the preparation, candidates need to understand the syllabus and exam pattern
  • Candidates can clear their basic concepts of the topics from the Class 10, 11 and 12 books
  • To improve speed and accuracy, candidates can attempt mock tests
  • After completing the syllabus, candidates must practice previous years' question papers to know the types of questions asked in the exam
  • Candidates must work on improving their weak areas
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Q:   Can I crack NDA through self-study?

A: 
There are many students who have cracked NDA exam with self-study. Replying only to coaching will not help in cracking the exam. Candidates should be consistent with their NDA preparation. The first and foremost step towards preparation should be going through the syllabus and exam pattern. Candidates must also solve previous years' question papers. By solving the previous years' question papers, candidates can know the type of questions asked in the exam.
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Q:   What are the important topics for NDA Maths?

A: 
The important topics for NDA Maths section are Integral Calculus, Differential Equations Trigonometry Algebra Vector Algebra Matrices and Determinants Analytical Geometry, Statistics & Probability. Candidates must practice previous years' question papers, mock test, go through the important topics, etc. To clear the concepts, candidates must refer to the high school level Maths books.
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NDA Mock Test

Shiksha has created an online NDA mock test for candidates on the basis of the previous years’ question papers. Click on the link below to take NDA mock test by Shiksha.

NDA Mock Test will help candidates to get an idea regarding the types of questions asked in the GAT section. Candidates can also check their scores after taking the mock test. Click the link below to take NDA mock test for free.

Free NDA GAT Mock Test 1

Get here free NDA GAT Mock Test 2 to prepare for the exam.

Free NDA GAT Mock Test 2

NDA Maths Mock Test will help candidates to know the types of questions asked in this section. After attempting the test, candidates can check their scores. Click the link below to take NDA mock test for Maths.

Free NDA Maths Mock Test 1

Get here free NDA Maths Mock Test.

Free NDA Maths Mock Test 2
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions

Q:   How to prepare for NDA exam in three months?

A: 

With just three months left for NDA exam, candidates must pull up their socks and start preparing for the exam dedicatedly. The competition for this exam is high and without a good preparation, it is not possible to crack it. Candidates must prepare a proper study plan and follow it diligently. Besides, candidates must solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests to get themselves familiar with the actual test and find out the strong and weak areas. 

Also Read: How to prepare for NDA 2023 in 3 months?

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Q:   Is it useful to solve NDA question papers?

A: 
Yes, solving NDA question papers is an important part of preparation. Solving the question papers helps candidates to assess their level of preparation for the exam. Candidates will also be able to find out their strengths and weakness and plan for the exam accordingly. Candidates must solve NDA question papers after completing the syllabus. They should fix a timetable for solving the question papers. Candidates at least one question paper regularly while preparing for NDA exam. Besides solving NDA question papers, you need to attempt mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy. Practising NDA question papers and solving mock tests should go hand in hand.
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Q:   How are NDA question papers useful?

A: 
NDA question papers help candidates to know the types of questions asked in the exam as well the difficulty level of the questions. The question papers also give candidates an idea regarding the pattern of the exam, topic-wise distribution of questions, topics that are given maximum weightage, etc. Candidates can use NDA question papers to improve their speed and accuracy of solving questions.
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Q:   Are you allowed to take the NDA question paper home?

A: 
Yes, UPSC allows candidates to take NDA question paper home. NDA exam is conducted in two shifts-afternoon and forenoon. Candidates can carry their question papers of Maths and GAT to their homes. However, UPSC also released NDA question papers online on its official website. The question papers are released online in PDF form. Aspirants can download the question papers and start preparing for the exam.
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NDA Mock Test FAQs

Candidates can check below NDA mock test FAQs.

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Commonly asked questions

Q:   Is NCERT enough for NDA exam preparation?

A: 

The NDA exam consists of questions that are of Class 10, 11, and 12 standards. If you follow the NCERT books thoroughly and grasp all the concepts mentioned in the books, you will not need any other reference books. For the NDA Maths section, you can prepare topics such as Algebra, Calculus, Determinants, Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Vector, Algebra, Statistics, and Probability. The GAT paper of NDA is divided into two parts. Part A comprises questions from English while Part B carries questions from General Knowledge. The topics that you can cover in English are Grammar and its Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion. The topics that you can prepare for General Knowledge are Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

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Q:   What is NDA selection process?

A: 

NDA selection process comprises written exam and SSB interview. Candidates need to secure qualifying marks separately in the written exam and SSB interview. Qualified candidates will be placed in a single combined list on the basis of total marks secure in the written exam and SSB interview. Final allocation is done based on the number of vacancies, eligibility, medical fitness and merit-cum-preference of the candidates. The written exam of NDA is conducted for 900 marks. The sectional cutoff marks for the written exam is 25 per cent. The SSB interview carries 900 marks. The SSB interview is conducted in two stages. Stage 1 comprises Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT) whereas Stage 2 comprises Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference.

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Q:   How can I prepare for NDA exam?

A: 

Every year thousands of candidates appear for NDA exam. With so much competition, candidates need to have a proper preparation strategy for the exam. Candidates need to be consistent with their study plans. They should devote few hours every day to study. Candidates need to be thorough with the syllabus. Candidates must revise their notes and important formulae every day. Candidates must practise mock tests and previous years' question papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and syllabus. Candidates must clear their basic concepts of each and every topic given in the syllabus. This will help candidates to solve the questions easily in the exam.

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qna

NDA Exam

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 days ago

Eligibility to appear in NDA EXAM:

Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years

Marital status: unmarried 

Educational qualification: 10+2 pass from a recognised board.

Specific subjects for air force and navy wings: physics, chemistry and mathematics.

Physics fitness: must meet the prescribed physical standard.

T

THENMOZHI Mohankumar

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 5 days ago

Yes, an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) candidate can appear for the NDA exam, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. According to the NDA eligibility requirements, an NRI candidate must be a citizen of India or a subject of Bhutan, Nepal, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 196

...Read more

63289109
Invicta Defence Academy

Beginner-Level 3

Answered 5 days ago

If the school address is incomplete on your NDA form, it could lead to complications in the verification process. It's essential to provide accurate and complete details to avoid any delays or issues with your application. I recommend updating the information as soon as possible to ensure everything

...Read more

81495300
Invicta Defence Academy

Beginner-Level 3

Answered 2 weeks ago

Yes, you are eligible for the NDA 1 exam in 2026. Candidates born between 2nd July 2007 and 1st July 2010 can apply, and being in the SC category does not affect your eligibility.

K

Kiran Kaithwar

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 weeks ago

To join the National Defence Academy (NDA) and undergo its rigorous training, candidates must meet specific physical and medical standards. Here's an overview of the key requirements:

Physical Standards:

  • Height and Weight:

    • Male Candidates: Minimum height of 157 cm.
    • Female Candidates: Minimum height of 1

...Read more

A

Ankit kumar

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

As per the official notification for NDA 1 2025, the age limit is as follows:

  • Date of Birth: Candidates must be born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009.

Currently, there is no indication of any changes to this age limit. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has not announced any modificati

...Read more

A

Ankit kumar

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

The application fee for the NDA 2025 exam is as follows:

  • General/OBC Candidates: ?100
  • SC/ST Candidates/Sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs/Women: Exempt from fee payment

The application process for NDA 1 2025 has concluded, with the last date for submission being December 31, 2024. The examination is scheduled for

...Read more

A

Ankit kumar

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

 

Hi Ayush,

For NDA 2025, the age eligibility criteria are as follows:

  • NDA 1 2025: Candidates must be born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009.

  • NDA 2 2025: Candidates must be born between January 2, 2007, and January 1, 2010.

Since your birthdate is February 24, 2006, you are eligible to apply f

...Read more

A

Ankit kumar

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

 

Hi Chandankumar,

NDA 2 refers to the second session of the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam held each year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The exam is conducted in two sessions:

  • NDA 1 (usually in April)
  • NDA 2 (usually in September)

Both exams serve as a gateway for candidates to join

...Read more

A

Ankit kumar

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

NDA Application Form 2025
Last Date to Apply: December 31, 2024.

Exam Date: April 13, 2025.

Application Fee: INR 100 (exemptions apply).

Apply at: upsc.gov.in  

K

Khushi Gupta

Contributor-Level 10

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