All exams

Written Examination

The written examination consists of two objective-type papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT), conducted on the same day. Both papers are bilingual (Hindi and English), except for the English section in GAT.

Marks obtained directly contribute to the final merit list (900 marks total) along with the SSB interview.
Paper I - Mathematics (Code No. 01)300 marks · 2.5 hours
- 1/3 of allotted marks per wrong answer penalty
Paper II - General Ability Test (Code No. 02)600 marks · 2.5 hours
- 1/3 of allotted marks per wrong answer penalty

Preparation Timeline

Suggested phase-by-phase study plan

Phase 1: Foundation Building Months 1-3

Strengthen core 11th and 12th standard Maths and basic Sciences.

  • Cover entire NCERT Mathematics for classes 11 and 12, focusing on concepts.
  • Review basic Physics and Chemistry concepts from Class 9 to 12 NCERT.
  • Develop a habit of reading an English newspaper daily to improve vocabulary and track current events.
Phase 2: Depth & Practice Months 4-5

Solving advanced level questions, taking up Geography and History.

  • Solve RS Aggarwal or Pathfinder for NDA Mathematics.
  • Start reading standard books for History and Geography, making short notes.
  • Practice English grammar rules and solving reading comprehension passages.
Phase 3: Mock Tests & Revision Last 1 Month

Time management, PYQ solving, and physical fitness.

  • Solve at least 10 previous year question papers (PYQs) strictly within 2.5 hours each.
  • Revise the formula book for Maths and short notes for GAT.
  • Start a basic physical fitness routine (running, push-ups) to prepare for SSB physical standards.

Exam Details

Concise and stable information snapshot

Overview

The NDA & NA Examination is the gateway for unmarried male and female candidates to join the prestigious National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy. It involves a two-stage selection process: a rigorous Written Examination conducted by UPSC followed by a comprehensive 5-day Intelligence and Personality Test by the Services Selection Board (SSB).

Posts

  • Army Wing of National Defence Academy
  • Navy Wing of National Defence Academy
  • Air Force Wing (Flying) of National Defence Academy
  • Air Force Wing (Ground Duties - Tech) of National Defence Academy
  • Air Force Wing (Ground Duties - Non Tech) of National Defence Academy
  • 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme of Indian Naval Academy

Eligibility

Educational Qualification Army: 12th Class pass. Air Force/Navy/Naval Academy: 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Age Limit 15.5 to 18.5 years
Age Relaxation Only unmarried male/female candidates born not earlier than 01st July 2007 and not later than 01st July 2010 are eligible for NDA I 2026.
Nationality Citizen of India, subject of Nepal, or qualifying person of Indian origin

Tags

defencendanaval-academyarmynavyair-forceupsc

Dive Deeper into NDA & NA

Explore specific sections in detail

Eligibility Criteria Exam Pattern & Stages Preparation Strategy Books & Resources Job Posts & Profiles

Recommended Resources

Curated study materials for preparation

Mathematics

Mathematics for NDA and NA — R.S. Aggarwal

Book

Excellent for practicing concept-based objective questions.

NCERT Mathematics — Class 11 and 12

Book

Crucial for building base concepts before moving to shortcuts.

General Ability Test (GAT) - English

High School English Grammar and Composition — Wren & Martin

Book

Best for grammar rules.

Word Power Made Easy — Norman Lewis

Book

For building strong vocabulary.

General Ability Test (GAT) - General Knowledge

Pathfinder for NDA & NA Entrance Examination — Arihant Experts

Book

A highly recommended all-in-one comprehensive guide.

Lucent’s General Knowledge

Book

Great for revising History, Geography, and basic sciences.

Current Affairs

The Hindu or The Indian Express

Newspaper

Read daily for current events and vocabulary.

Pratiyogita Darpan or Monthly Current Affairs Magazines

Magazine

Last updated: 9 Mar 2026