Examination Structure
The NDA written examination, held on April 12, 2026, comprises two papers:
| Subject |
Marks |
Duration |
Syllabus |
| Mathematics (Code: 01)
No of Questions : 120
Negative Marking : One Third(1/3) |
300 |
2.5 hours |
Includes Algebra (sets, Venn diagrams, complex numbers, binary system), Matrices and Determinants, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry (2D and 3D), Differential and Integral Calculus, Vector Algebra, Statistics, and Probability. Questions test conceptual understanding and problem-solving at the 10+2 level. |
| General Ability Test (Code: 02)
No of Questions : 150
Negative Marking : One Third(1/3) |
600 |
2.5 hrs |
- English: Tests grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension to assess communication skills.
- General Knowledge: Covers Physics (mechanics, heat, electricity, optics), Chemistry (elements, compounds, material preparation), General Science (biology, human body, epidemics), History (Indian history, freedom movement), Geography (climate, resources, trade routes), and Current Events (recent national and international developments).
|
Note: It is necessary to attain 25 % marks in Paper -1 for qualify . If you are unable to attain 25 % marks in papper -1 , Paper-2 will not be checked .
The exam is objective-type, with answers marked on a scannable sheet using a black ball pen. Negative marking applies, and candidates must follow strict instructions to avoid answer sheet rejection. Prohibited items include mobile phones, calculators, smart watches, and other electronic devices. Candidates encode details like centre, subject, test booklet series, and roll number on the answer sheet, with discrepancies reported to the invigilator immediately.
Examination Centres
The exam is conducted in 70 cities, including Agartala, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and others. A ceiling on candidate numbers applies to most centres (except Chennai, Dispur, Kolkata, and Nagpur), allocated on a first-apply-first-allot basis. Candidates unable to secure their preferred centre must choose an alternative.
SSB Interview
Candidates who qualify in the written exam proceed to the SSB interview, conducted from July to September 2026. The SSB assesses intelligence, personality, and officer-like qualities through psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. Candidates must present original Matriculation and 10+2 certificates, verified by SSB authorities. Discrepancies or false claims lead to disqualification, and candidates may face disciplinary action for misconduct.
Physical and Medical Standards
General Physical Standards
- Height and Weight:
- Army (Male/Female): Minimum height is 157 cm (male) and 152 cm (female), with age-specific weight charts (e.g., 43.2 kg minimum for 155 cm, up to 60.1 kg for 17-20 years).
- Navy: Minimum height is 157 cm, with relaxations for regions like Ladakh (155 cm) and Gorkhas (147 cm).
- Air Force (Flying Branch): Minimum height is 162.5 cm, with leg length (99-120 cm), thigh length (max 64 cm), and sitting height (81.5-96 cm).
- Vision Standards:
- NDA/NA: Uncorrected vision 6/12, corrected to 6/6, with myopia (-1.0 D) and hypermetropia (+2.0 D) limits.
- Air Force (Flying Branch): Requires perfect colour vision and precise ocular muscle balance (e.g., convergence up to 10 cm).
- Medical Fitness:
- Candidates must be free from diseases/disabilities affecting performance, such as scoliosis, congenital anomalies, or dental issues (minimum 14 dental points required).
- Female candidates undergo gynaecological exams to rule out conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or pelvic infections.
- Post-surgical candidates (e.g., hernia repair, LASIK) require recovery periods (e.g., 24 weeks for hernia, 12 months for LASIK) with no complications.
Medical Examination Process
- Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo a Special Medical Board (SMB). Those declared unfit can request an Appeal Medical Board (AMB) within 42 days at a Command Hospital.
- Mandatory tests include complete haemogram, urine RE, chest X-ray, and USG abdomen/pelvis. Air Force candidates require additional spinal X-rays.
- Conditions like keratoconus, cardiac anomalies, psychiatric disorders, or severe dental issues result in rejection. The Medical Board’s decision is final, with the benefit of doubt given to the state in ambiguous cases.
Conclusion
The NDA is a transformative institution, forging disciplined, capable officers for India’s Armed Forces. The UPSC’s NDA provides a clear roadmap, from the online application (due December 31, 2024) to the examination on April 13, 2025, and beyond. With rigorous selection, world-class training, and generous financial support, the NDA offers an unparalleled opportunity to serve the nation with honor. Aspiring candidates should prepare diligently, verify their eligibility, and embrace the challenge of this prestigious journey. For those with courage, determination, and a passion for service, the NDA is the gateway to a glorious military career.
