The NDA Exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy. It is one of the most prestigious exams for students who wish to join the Armed Forces right after Class 12. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training at NDA, Khadakwasla (Pune), before joining their respective services as officers.
Application Fee
- General / OBC: ₹100/-
- SC / ST / Sons of JCOs / NCOs / ORs: Exempted (No Fee)
- Mode of Payment: Online (Debit/Credit/Net Banking/UPI) or offline via challan.
Age Limit
- Minimum: 16.5 years
- Maximum: 19.5 years
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India (or as per UPSC rules).
- Educational Qualification:
- Army Wing: 12th Class pass (any stream) from a recognized board.
- Air Force & Naval Wings / 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme: 12th Class pass with Physics and Mathematics.
- Other Requirements: Candidate must be physically and medically fit as per Defence standards.
Steps to Check NDA Result
- Visit the official UPSC website: https://www.upsc.gov.in.
- Click on the link: Written Results → NDA Examination.
- Open the PDF of shortlisted roll numbers.
- Search your Roll Number in the list.
- Qualified candidates proceed to SSB Interview.
FAQs
Q1. How many times is the NDA exam conducted in a year?
👉 Twice — NDA I (April) and NDA II (September).
Q2. What is the selection process?
👉 Written Exam (Mathematics + GAT) → SSB Interview (2-stage) → Medical Examination → Final Merit List.
Q3. Is there negative marking?
👉 Yes, 1/3rd mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
Q4. Can girls apply for NDA?
👉 Yes, since 2021, both boys and girls are eligible.
Q5. Can 12th appearing students apply?
👉 Yes, candidates appearing for their 12th exam can apply provisionally.
Q6. What is the training period after selection?
👉 3 years at NDA, followed by 1 year at the respective service academy (IMA/INA/AFA).