NDA Notification 2025 OUT: NDA 1 Official Notification PDF Here

National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Exam 2025 ( NDA )

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Registration: 11 Dec '24 - 31 Dec '24

Anangsha Patra

Anangsha PatraDeputy Manager – Editorial

Updated on Dec 11, 2024 22:49 IST

NDA Notification 2025: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released NDA 1 2025 notification on December 11, 2024. NDA 1 application form 2025 was released on December 11, 2024. NDA 1 vacancies 2025 were released along with the notification. A total of 406 vacancies were announced for the exam.

The notification for NDA 2 2025 exam will be released on May 28, 2025. The application form for NDA 2 exam will be released on May 28, 2025. 

 NDA 2025 exam dates were announced by UPSC. The written exam of NDA 1 2025 will be conducted on April 13, 2025. NDA 2 2025 exam will be conducted on September 14, 2025. NDA 2025 notification will be released in PDF form on the official website. However, we will provide NDA notification 2025 PDF on this page. Candidates are advised to check the notification carefully before applying for the exam. 

According to NDA eligibility, candidates who completed or are appearing in Class 12 exam are eligible to appear for the exam. Read below for more details on NDA notification 2025.

Q:   When NDA notification 2025 was released?

A:

NDA 1 2025 notification was released on December 11, 2024. NDA 2 2025 notification will be released on May 28, 2025. NDA notification PDF is made available on the official website. The notification PDF comprises details related to the exam such as important dates, eligibility, application process, exam pattern, syllabus, selection process, etc. Candidates, must read the notification carefully before applying for the exam. The recruitment process is carried out as per the details given in the notification.

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Q:   When NDA application form 2025 was released?

A:

The official notification for NDA 1 2025 exam along with the application form was released on December 11, 2024. The last date to apply for the exam is December 31, 2024. NDA 2 2025 exam will be conducted on September 14, 2025. NDA 2 2025 notification will be released on May 28, 2025. The application form will be available till June 17, 2025.  Candidates need to fill the application form online. The application fees can be paid both online and offline. The steps to fill NDA application form 2025 are given below.

  • Visit the official website of UPSC
  • Register online by filling the Part I of application
  • Login with the registration number to fill Part II of the application form
  • Fill all the details in Part II application form
  • Submit the fees and take printout of the application form
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Q:   When NDA 1 2025 exam will be conducted?

A:

NDA 1 2025 exam will be conducted on April 13, 2025. The official notification for NDA 1 2025 exam along with the application form will be released on December 11, 2024. The last date to apply for the exam is December 31, 2024.

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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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NDA Notification 2025

NDA notification is released for admission of eligible candidates to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy Course. Before applying to the exam, candidates are required to check NDA latest notification so that candidates can get an overview of the exam. Both male and female candidates can apply for NDA 2025. The selection of eligible males & females is done through written Examination and SSB interviews.

Download here NDA 1 Notification 2025 PDF

Q:   What are the stages of NDA selection process?

A:
NDA exam is conducted in two stages: written and SSB Interview. Candidates qualifying the written exam of NDA by securing the required cut off marks are called for the SSB interview. The SSB Interview is divided into two stages. Candidates qualifying theStage 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. This stage carries 900 marks.
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Q:   What is the difference between NDA and CDS exams?

A:
Though both are defence exams, there are many similarities and differences in the recruitment process, exam pattern, training, salary, perks, promotion, eligibility, etc. NDA is conducted for candidates who wish to join the defence services after Class 12. CDS is the exam conducted for the graduate candidates for training at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Air Force Academy (AFA), Officers Training Academy (OTA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA). NDA exam is conducted for Class 12 pass candidates. Whereas, CDS exam is conducted for graduate-level candidates. NDA exam carries two subjects-GAT and Maths. CDS exam carries three papers-Maths, English and GK. English and GK section is conducted for OTA, IMA, INA and AFA. Maths paper is conducted for IMA, INA and AFA. The total marks allotted to the written exam of NDA is 900 whereas it is 300 for CDS.
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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:   When NDA 2 2025 exam will be conducted?

A:

NDA 2 2025 exam will be conducted on September 14, 2025. NDA 2 2025 notification will be released on May 28, 2025. The application form will be available till June 17, 2025. NDA 2 notification 2025 will be released to select candidates for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of NDA and Indian Naval Academy Courses beginning in July 2025.

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NDA Dates

Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of NDA 2025 exam

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates

11 Dec '24 -

31 Dec '24

NDA 1 Application Form 2025

ONGOING

01 Jan '25 -

07 Jan '25

NDA 1 2025 Application Form

13 Apr '25

NDA 1 2025 exam

28 May '25 -

17 Jun '25

NDA 2 Application Form 2025

14 Sep '25

NDA 2 2025 exam

DatesPast Exam Dates

01 Sep '24

NDA 2 Exam Date 2024

23 Aug '24 -

01 Sep '24

NDA 2 Admit Card 2024

15 May '24

NDA 2 Notification 2024

NDA Eligibility 2025

NDA eligibility is the parameters in terms of age limit, educational qualification, nationality and physical standard. To be eligible for the NDA exam, candidates need to fulfil the following NDA eligibility criteria:

  • Only unmarried male and female candidates who are between 16 and 19 years can apply for NDA exam
  • For the Indian Army, candidates must have completed Class 12 or equivalent exam from a recognised board
  • For the Indian Navy and Air Force, candidates must have passed Class 12 or equivalent exam from a recognised board or university with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
  • Candidates who are appearing in Class 12 under the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination can also apply for this examination

Q:   Can I apply for NDA exam while studying in class 11?

A:

No, you cannot apply for NDA exam while studying in Class 11. According to the eligibility criteria, candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12 are only eligible to apply NDA exam. The educational qualification prescribed for the Army wing of NDA is that candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12 or equivalent exam from a recognised board can apply for the exam. The educational qualification prescribed for Air Force and Naval wings of NDA and 10+2 Cadet entry scheme at INA is that candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics can apply for the exam.

 

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Q:   Is Biology necessary for NDA exam?

A:

No, biology is not a compulsory subject for the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam. The NDA exam is a competitive examination in India conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for admission to the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. The exam consists of two parts: a written test and an interview. The written test includes subjects such as mathematics, English and general knowledge. Candidates are not required to have studied biology to be eligible for the NDA exam. 

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Q:   Does JEE Main rank matter for the NDA exam?

A:
JEE Main rank is not considered for the NDA exam. The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission UPSC for selection of candidates for admission to Army, Navy and Air Force wings of NDA and Indian Naval Academy Course. JEE Main is a separate exam which is conducted for admission to BE/B.Tech and B.Arch/Plan courses at NITs, IIITs, other Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs), Institutions/Universities funded/recognised by participating State Governments. Candidates for NDA are selected based on their performance in the written exam and interview. Besides, the physical and medical fitness of candidates are also checked.
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Q:   What is the criteria to give NDA exam?

A:
Hi, Eligibility Criteria to write NDA exam- (a) Nationality : A candidate must either be : i) a citizen of India, or ii) a subject of Bhutan, or iii) a subject of Nepal, or iv) a Tibetan refugee who came over to India with the intention of permanently settling in India, or v) a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka and East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire and Ethiopia and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India. Provided that a candidate belonging to categories (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v) above shall be a person in whose favor a certificate of eligibility has been issued by the Government of India. Certificate of eligibility will not, however, be necessary in the case of candidates who are Gorkha subjects of Nepal. (b) Age Limits, Sex and Marital Status : A candidate must be an unmarried male and have attained the age of 16 1/2 years and must not have attained the age 19 years on the 1st January or 1st of July of the year succeeding the year of examination. Candidates must not marry until they complete their full training. A candidate who marries subsequent to the date of his application, though successful will not be selected for training. A candidate who marries during training shall be discharged and will be liable to refund all expenditure incurred on him by the Government. (c) Educational Qualifications : For Army wing of National Defence Academy :- 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a University. For Air Force and Naval Wings of National Defence Academy and for the 10+2 (Executive Branch) Course at the Naval Academy :- 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics conducted by a State Education Board or a University. Candidates who are appearing in the 12th Class under the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination can also apply.
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NDA Notification 2025: How to apply?

NDA application form is released online along with the UPSC NDA exam notification. The application fee can be paid online and offline. The application fee is INR 100, SC/ST/Sons of JCOs/ORs are exempted from fee payment. The steps to fill NDA application form are given below:

  • Visit the official website
  • Click the registration link on the home page
  • Enter the required details for registration
  • Choose the preferred branch
  • Verify the details and submit the registration form
  • Registration ID will be generated
  • Pay the application fee
  • Select NDA exam centre
  • Upload scanned images of photograph and signature
  • Agree to the terms and conditions
  • Submit the application form

Q:   Can women candidates apply for NDA exam?

A:

Yes, women candidates can now apply for NDA exam. In 2021, Supreme Court of India has allowed women candidates to appear for NDA exam. The eligibility criteria of women candidates are same as male candidates. Women candidates aged between 16.5 years to 19.5 years can apply for NDA exam. They must have passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board. Candidates who are appearing in Class 12 exam can also apply for NDA. Now women candidates are also eligible for applying to the Indian Naval Academy course. Earlier, they were not allowed to apply for Indian Naval Academy. The eligibility for the women candidates are same as their male counterparts. However, there is a difference in the medical standards of women candidates.

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Q:   I am medical student. Can I apply for NDA exam?

A:
Yes, medical students are eligible to apply for the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam, provided they meet the other eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria for the NDA exam are as follows: Age: Candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years of age on the first day of the month in which the course is scheduled to begin. Educational qualification: Candidates must have passed the 10+2 examination or its equivalent from a recognised board. Medical students who have completed their 10+2 with Science subjects are also eligible to apply. Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens or subject of Bhutan, Nepal or a Tibetan refugee who came over to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India. Marital status: Candidates must be unmarried. Physical standards: Candidates must meet the prescribed physical standards. So, if you meet the above-mentioned eligibility criteria, you can apply for the NDA exam. The exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). You can check the UPSC's official website for more details on the exam and its application procedure.
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Q:   How can I apply for NDA exam?

A:
NDA application form is made available online and candidates can submit it through the official website. To fill NDA application form, candidates need to do the One Time Registration (OTR). NDA application form comprises two parts-1 and 2. NDA apply online part I registration is divided into four pages: candidate's registration, choosing the preferred branch, verifying details and generation of registration ID. In part II, candidates need to pay the application fees, select the exam centre, upload scanned images of photographs and signatures.
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Q:   What should I do if my name is more than 30 characters in the NDA form?

A:

You can abbreviate your name within 30 characters and fill it in the name column of NDA application form. You need to send a signed written request to Joint Secretary (Examination), UPSC Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi 110069 by speed-post or fax by giving details of the full name and reasons for abbreviation in this regard. Applicants need to fill NDA application form online. Candidates are not required to sent the hard copy of the NDA application form. The application form can be filled in two parts. In Part 1 of NDA application form, candidates need to fill register for the exam, choose the preferred branch, verify the details and generate the registration ID. In Part 2, candidates need to select the exam centre, upload scanned images of photograph and signature. Before filling the application form, candidates need to complete the one time registration.

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Q:   What photo-identity proofs do I need to upload during filling NDA application form 2023?

A:

Candidate should also have details of one photo ID such as Aadhar Card/ Voter Card/ PAN Card/ Passport/ Driving License/School Photo ID/Any other photo ID Card issued by the State/Central Government while filling the application form. Besides photo-identity proof, candidates are also required to upload their scanned photographs and signatures. Candidates need to bring the same photo-identity proof along with the admit card to the exam centre for appearing the written exam and SSB interview. The photo-identity proof that candidates upload during registration is used for all future reference by UPSC.The application form needs to be filled online only.  Candidates must have their photographs and signatures duly scanned in the .jpg format in such a manner that each file should not exceed 300 KB each and must not be less than 20 KB in size for the photograph and signature. Candidates scan their photo-identity proof in PDF only. The size of the PDF file should not exceed 300 KB and must not be less than 20 KB.

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NDA Exam Centre 2025

The list of NDA exam centres is given below.

Agartala

Ghaziabad

Panaji (Goa)

Agra

Gorakhpur

Patna

Ajmer

Gurgaon

Port Blair

Ahmedabad

Gwalior

Prayagraj (Allahabad)

Aizawl

Hyderabad

Puducherry

Aligarh

Imphal

Pune

Almora (Uttarakhand)

Indore

Raipur

Anantpur (Andhra Pradesh)

Itanagar

Rajkot

Aurangabad

Jabalpur

Ranchi

Bengaluru

Jaipur

Sambalpur

Bareilly

Jammu

Shillong

Bhopal

Jodhpur

Shimla

Bilaspur

Jorhat

Siligudi

Chandigarh

Kochi

Srinagar

Chennai

Kohima

Srinagar (Uttarakhand)

Coimbatore

Kolkata

Thane

Cuttack

Kozhikode (Calicut)

Thiruvananthapuram

Dehradun

Leh

Tiruchirapalli

Delhi

Lucknow

Tirupati

Dharwad

Ludhiana

Udaipur

Dispur

Madurai

Varanasi

Faridabad

Mumbai

Vellore

Gangtok

Mysore

Vijayawada

Gaya

Nagpur

Vishakhapatnam

Gautam Buddh Nagar

Navi Mumbai

Warangal

Q:   In how many cities NDA exam will be conducted?

A:
NDA exam is conducted across multiple test centres in more than 70 cities. The exam is conducted in two shifts-morning and afternoon. Candidates are required to appear in both shifts. The details regarding the NDA exam centre are mentioned on the admit card. There is a ceiling on the number of candidates allotted to each of the centres except Chennai, Dispur, Kolkata and Nagpur. Allotment of NDA centres is done on the first-apply-firstallot basis and once the capacity of a particular centre is attained, the same is frozen. Applicants who cannot get a centre of their choice due to ceiling, are required to choose a NDA exam centre from the remaining ones. Applicants should apply early so that they get their preferred exam centre.
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Q:   What do I need to carry to my NDA written exam centre?

A:
Candidates need to carry the following documents to the NDA exam centre: NDA Admit Card Aadhaar Card (Original copy) or any other government photo-identity proog Two Black Ball Point pen for marking your responses on the OMR sheet Analogue wrist watch as UPSC do not allow one with a digital display Two photos similar to that on the admit card.
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Q:   How do you know your NDA exam centres?

A:
UPSC releases the list of test cities along with the notification. Candidates are required to choose one test city as per their preferences while filling the application form. One test city can have multiple exam centres. The details regarding the NDA exam centres are mentioned on the admit card. Candidates need to appear for the exam at the allotted test centre or else their answer scripts are not evaluated. While appearing for the exam, candidates need to carry the printed copy of their admit cards along with one photo-identity proof to the allotted NDA exam centre.
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Q:   How many cities could an applicant choose for NDA exam?

A:
Candidates can select one city for NDA exam while filling the application form. The preferences of exam cities are required to be entered in Part 2 of NDA application form. The exam centres are allotted on a first-apply-first-allot basis. Once the capacity of a particular centre is filled, the same is frozen. Therefore, to get the preferred exam centre, candidates need to apply early. The examination authority reserves the right to allot exam centres to candidates.
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NDA Notification 2025: Vacancy Details

NDA Vacancies 2025 was released along with the notification. Candidates can check below NDA 1 2025 vacancy break-up. 

Academy Wings No. of Vacancies

NDA

Army 

208 (including 10 for female candidates)

Navy 

42 (including 06 for female candidates)

Air Force 

(i) Flying –92 (including 02 for female candidates)
(ii) Ground Duties (Tech) –18 (including 02 for female candidates)
(iii) Ground Duties (Non Tech) –10 (including 02 for female candidates)

Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)

-

36 (including 05 for female candidates) 

Total

 

404

 

 

 

 

Q:   How many vacancies were announced for NDA 2 exam in 2023?

A:

A total of 395 vacancies were announced for NDA 2 2023 exam. Out of total vacancies, 208 vacancies were announced for Army, 42 for Navy, 120 for Air Force and 25 for Indian Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme). A total of 35 vacancies were announced for women candidates.

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Q:   Does NDA select cadet according to academy vacancy or service vacancy?

A:
NDA select cadet based on service vacancy. It is according to the number of officers required at that time. But the academy accommodation also plays a role. The existing infrastructure at the academy can accommodate a certain number of cadets each term. If it is extended or the intake is greater than the capacity, the training standards will drop.
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Q:   How many vacancies were announced for NDA 1 2023?

A:

UPSC  announced 395 vacancies for NDA 1 2023. A total of 208 (including 10 for female candidates) were announced for Army, 42 (including 03 for female candidates) for Navy and 120 for Air Force (two vacancies each were earmarked for Flying and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical Branches). NDA exam is conducted for admission of candidates to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of NDA and Indian Naval Academy courses.

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Q:   How many vacancies were announced for NDA 2 2024 exam?

A:

A total of 404 vacancies were announced for NDA 2 2024 exam. The vacancy break-up is given below.

AcademyWingsNo. of Vacancies

NDA

Army 

208 (including 10 for female candidates)

Navy 

42 (including 06 for female candidates)

Air Force 

Flying- 92  (including 02 for female candidates)

Ground Duties (Tech)-18  (including 02 for female candidates)

Ground Duties (Non Tech)-10  (including 02 for female candidates)

Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)

-

34 (including 05 for female candidate)

Total

 

404

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NDA Notification 2025: Pattern of Exam

NDA exam pattern is divided into the written exam and SSB Interview. The written exam comprises two papers: Paper I is Mathematics and Paper II is the General Ability Test (GAT). Each paper will be for 2 ½ hours. According to NDA exam pattern, the maximum mark of the test is 900. For wrong answers, 1/3 of the marks allotted to each question will be deducted. The SSB Interview comprises two stages. Stage I comprise 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. The total marks of SSB Interview are 900.

NDA Exam Pattern for Written Exam

Papers Subject Maximum marks Duration

Paper 1

Mathematics

300

2 ½

Paper 2

GAT

600

2 ½

Total

900

5 hours

NDA Marking Scheme

The marking scheme of NDA exam is given below.

Subject NDA Negative Marking
GAT -1.33
Maths -0.83

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 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:   In how many stages SSB Interview is held?

A:
SSB Interview is held in two stages. Stage 1 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. The total marks allotted to SSB interview are 900. The performance in the SSB interview is also considered for final merit list.
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NDA Notification 2025: Syllabus

NDA syllabus comprises topics from Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The level of Mathematics syllabus is of Class 11 and 12 standards. Candidates must read the NCERT books for Mathematics to score good marks in this section. GAT is divided into two parts: A and B. Part A comprises questions from English while Part B carries questions from General Knowledge. To ace the exam, candidates need to follow a proper NDA Preparation Tips. The topics included in NDA syllabus 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.

Also Read: NDA Books

Q:   Can I complete NDA Syllabus in two Months?

A:
NDA is a national-level defence exam that is largely participated by the defence aspirants. Therefore, the competition is high for this exam. Candidates requires at least one year to six months for NDA preparation. However, with dedication and right approach, candidates can clear the exam in two months. Candidates must first go through the topics in NDA syllabus first. Attempt NDA previous years' papers and mock tests regularly to improve time management skills.
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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:   Is the NDA entrance exam syllabus the same as Class 12?

A:

Yes, the NDA syllabus is the same as class 12. To crack the NDA exam, candidates must have conceptual clarity for better application while handling tricky and simple questions. Candidates must practice previous years' question papers. For Maths candidates must practice from NCERT Class 11 books. Jot down important Mathematical formulas and concepts. For English, candidates must brush up on the concepts of English. Candidates must clear their basic grammar, improve reading comprehension, and build vocabulary to tackle Antonyms and Synonyms.

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Q:   Where can I find the PDF of NDA syllabus?

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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NDA Notification 2025: What is the Salary?

NDA salary during the entire duration of training in Service academies is INR 56,100. After the successful training, the NDA salary of the Officer Commissioned will be fixed in the first Cell of Level 10.

Q:   What is the highest NDA salary of an Officer?

A:
The highest NDA salary of an Officer is Level 18 which is INR 2,50,000. This salary is offered to Chief of Army Staff. The highest salary varies for different posts. The salary for the post of Lieutenant is INR 1,77,500 per month. The salary for Major General is INR 2,18,200 per month.
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Q:   What is the salary after graduating from NDA?

A:
The salary that candidates will get after completing their course in NDA is given below. Lt to Major: Lt: Level 10 (56100-177500) Capt: Level 10 B (61,300-193900) Maj: Level 11 (69400-207200) Lt Colonel to Major General: Lt Col: Level 12A (121200-212400) Col: Level 13 (130600-215900) Brig: Level 13A (139600-217600) Maj Gen: Level 14 (144200-218200) Lt Gen AG Scale: Level 15 (182200-224100) HAG + Scale: Level 16 (205400 224400) VCOAS/ Army Cdr/ Lt Gen (NFSG): Level 17 (225000) (fixed) COAS: Level 18 (250000) (fixed). .
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Q:   What is the salary of candidates selected through NDA exam?

A:
Aspirants are always interested in knowing NDA salary while preparing for the exam. The salary provides details regarding the compensation that employees get after joining NDA. The stipend given to the Gentlemen Cadets during training is INR 56,100. After the successful training, the NDA salary of the Officer Commissioned will be fixed in the first Cell of Level 10.
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NDA Cut off

NDA cut off is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure to qualify the exam and become eligible for the next round of selection process. The cut off marks are released after the completion of the recruitment process separately for the written exam and SSB interview. Candidates need to secure 25 per cent in each subject/paper. NDA cut off for the written exam is decided out of 900 marks whereas, the final cut off is calculated out of 1800 marks. The final cut off is the marks secured by last recommended candidate.

Read More: NDA Result

Q:   What is NDA cut off?

A:

NDA cut off is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure in the written exam and SSB interview. UPSC prescribes cut off marks for written exam and final selection. Candidates need to secure separate qualifying marks in written exam and SSB interview. Candidates securing the NDA cut off marks are called for subsequent rounds of selection process. NDA exam is conducted to select eligible candidates for admission to Army, Navy and Air Force wings of National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy course. NDA selection process comprises written exa and SSB interview. Candidates qualifying the written exam by securing the required cut off are called for the SSB interview. Candidates need to secure the cut off marks in the SSB interview also. 

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Q:   How is the NDA cut off determined?

A:

NDA cutoff is determined based on factors such as the number of test takers, total vacancies, and exam difficulty level. NDA cut off for written exam and final selection is released after the completion of the selection process. Separate cutoff marks are announced for written exam and final selection. NDA cut off marks are the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure inorder to qualify the exam. The written exam cutoff is calculated out of 900 marks. The last selected candidates’ scores are used to determine the final selection cutoff, which is based on their performance out of 1800 marks (900 for the written exam and 900 for the SSB interview). The prescribed qualifying NDA cutoff marks for each subject were 25 per cent.

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Q:   Where can I check the NDA cutoff scores?

A:

NDA cutoffs are released on the official website in PDF form after the declaration of the final result. The cutoff marks are also provided on this page after it is announced by the examination authority. The cut off are released separately for written exam and final selection. Candidates need to secure the cut off marks inorder to get selected in the exam. The steps to check NDA cut off marks are given below:

  • Visit the official website of UPSC 
  • From the 'Examination' tab, candidates need to go to the 'Cut off' tab
  • In the cut off page, candidates will find the NDA cut off marks
  • Check the cut off marks 
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Q:   How to check NDA cut off?

A:

The steps to check NDA cut off are given below:

  • Visit the official website of UPSC
  • Go to the 'Cut off' page from 'Examination'
  • Click the NDA cut off link
  • The cut off is displayed on the screen
  • Download the cut off and save it

Aspirants need to get at least 25 per cent marks out of 600 in General Ability Test (GAT) and 25 per cent marks out of 300 in Mathematics to qualify for NDA Written Exam. Candidates who will secure more than the minimum marks and the NDA cutoff will be called for the next round of selection i.e., the SSB Interview process.

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NDA Notification 2025 FAQs

Candidates can check below NDA 2025 notification FAQs.

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:   What is NDA syllabus?

A:
NDA syllabus outlines the topics and sub-topics which candidates need to cover for the exam. NDA syllabus is divided into Maths and GAT. The level of the syllabus is of Classes 10, 11 and 12 standards. Candidates can check below the topics included in the syllabus: 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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Q:   What will be the language of NDA question paper?

A:
The question paper of NDA is set in both English and Hindi. All the questions in the exam are objective type. There are a total of 150 questions in GAT while the Mathematics part carry a total of 120 questions.
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Q:   Is there any negative marking in NDA exam?

A:
Yes, there is negative marking in NDA exam. For incorrect answers in GAT 1.33 marks are deducted. For incorrect answers in Maths 0.83 marks are deducted.
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Q:   What is NDA marking scheme?

A:

There are negative marks for wrong answers, 1/3 of the marks allotted to each question are deducted for the incorrect answer. There is no deduction in marks for unanswered questions. The marking scheme of NDA is given below. GAT For correct answer, four marks are awarded while 1.33 marks are deducted for wrong answers. Maths For correct answer, 2.5 marks are awarded while 0.83 marks are deducted for wrong answers. The marks of candidates are calculated based on the number of correct and incorrect answers. The marking scheme of NDA exam is given below:

Sections

Marks for correct answer

NDA Negative Marking

GAT

4

1.33

Mathematics

2.5

0.83

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NDA Exam

Student Forum

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

Answered 2 days ago

Yes, you can apply for the National Defence Academy (NDA) after completing Class 12th, provided you meet the eligibility requirements. The NDA entrance exam is open to male candidates who have completed their 12th with Physics and Mathematics for applying to the Navy or Air Force, while candidates f

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T

Tejas Bodhankar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Women candidates can apply for Indian Naval Academy courses for NDA exam. In 2024, vacancies were released for women candidates for admission to Indian Naval Academy courses. 

S

Sumridhi Singh

Beginner-Level 2

Answered 6 days ago

Few important points related to NDA vacancies are given below:

  • NDA vacancies are provisional and may change depending on the availability of training capacity of the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy
  • Candidates are required to specify clearly in the online NDA application form, the ser

...more

B

Bhumika Arora

Beginner-Level 2

Answered 6 days ago

Following NDA 1 vacancies 2024 for women were announced in 2024.

AcademyWingsNo. of Vacancies
NDAArmy 10
Navy 12
Air Force  (i) Flying-2
(ii) Ground Duties (Tech)-18
(iii) Ground Duties (Non-Tech)-10
Indian Naval Academy-9

J

Jasleen Harsha

Beginner-Level 2

Answered 6 days ago

 

The following NDA 2 vacancies 2024 for females were announced.

AcademyWingsNo. of Vacancies
NDAArmy 10
Navy 6
Air Force  (i) Flying-2
(ii) Ground Duties (Tech)-2
(iii) Ground Duties (Non-Tech)-2
Indian Naval Academy-5

A

Anangsha Patra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

NDA exam centres are released along with the admit card. The list of test cities is made available along with the notification. Candidates are required to enter their preferences of test citiies while filling the application form. The test centres are allotted to candidates as per the preferences gi

...more

I

Ishita Aggarwal

Beginner-Level 2

Answered a week ago

No, you are not eligible for NDA 1 2025 because you were born after the required age range:

To be eligible for NDA 1 2025, candidates must have been born between July 2, 2006 and July 1, 2009

Your date of birth is August 4, 2008, which is after the required age range 

Other eligibility criteria for

...more

A

Anurag tiwari

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

Here are some reputable options for NDA crash courses:

Online Platforms

   

 * Physics Wallah: Provides affordable courses with a focus on conceptual understanding and problem-solving.

   

 * Dehradun Defence Academy: Offers both online and offline crash courses with a structured approach and experienced

...more

S

SUJITH S

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a week ago

In the NDA (National Defence Academy) written exam, the General Science section is part of the overall paper, which includes subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The weightage of General Science is divided as follows:

  1. Physics: Typically, questions from Physics hold the largest weightage in

...more

R

Rupesh Katariya

Contributor-Level 10

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