UPSC NDA & NA: syllabus, exam pattern & eligibility
National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination. Entry to Army/Navy/Air Force wings at NDA and Naval Academy (after Class 12)
- Category
- Civil Services & Defence
- Conducted by
- Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Level
- Recruitment (post-Class 12)
- Frequency
- Twice a year (NDA I in Apr, NDA II in Sep)
- Mode
- Pen & paper (OMR)
- Languages
- English, Hindi
Eligibility
- Education: Class 12 (PCM for Air Force/Navy)
- Age: 16.5-19.5 (verify)
- Nationality: Unmarried male/female candidates (verify)
Exam pattern
Mathematics
150 min · 120 questions · 300 marks
General Ability Test
150 min · 150 questions · 600 marks
- English: 50 questions, 200 marks
- General Knowledge: 100 questions, 400 marks
Syllabus
Mathematics
Algebra, Matrices & determinants, Trigonometry, Analytical geometry (2D, 3D), Differential & integral calculus, Vectors, Statistics & probability
General Ability
English (grammar, vocabulary, comprehension), Physics, Chemistry, General science, History, geography, current events
Important dates (2026)
- NDA I 2026 exam: 2026-04-12
- NDA II 2026 exam: 2026-09-13
Selection process
Written -> SSB (5 days) -> medical -> merit
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Frequently asked questions
What is UPSC NDA & NA?
UPSC NDA & NA stands for National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination. Entry to Army/Navy/Air Force wings at NDA and Naval Academy (after Class 12). It is conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Level: Recruitment (post-Class 12).
Who is eligible for UPSC NDA & NA?
Education: Class 12 (PCM for Air Force/Navy). Age limit: 16.5-19.5 (verify). Nationality: Unmarried male/female candidates (verify).
What is the exam pattern of UPSC NDA & NA?
Mathematics: 150 minutes, 120 questions, 300 marks. General Ability Test: 150 minutes, 150 questions, 600 marks. Mode: Pen & paper (OMR).
How often is UPSC NDA & NA held?
Twice a year (NDA I in Apr, NDA II in Sep).
When is UPSC NDA & NA held?
2026 cycle: NDA I 2026 exam 2026-04-12; NDA II 2026 exam 2026-09-13.
How are candidates selected through UPSC NDA & NA?
Written -> SSB (5 days) -> medical -> merit.
Compiled from public sources, last checked 2026-09-25. Dates, fees and rules change, so confirm with the official website before you apply.