After Class 12 (or appearing in Class 12)
NDA and NA Exam
The NDA and NA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to select candidates for the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy, and for the Indian Naval Academy. Selection has two stages: a written test and the SSB interview.
Last reviewed October 2026
At a glance
- Conducted by
- Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Frequency
- Twice a year: NDA and NA (I) and (II)
- Stages
- Written test, then the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview
- Mathematics paper
- 300 marks, 2 hours 30 minutes
- General Ability Test
- 600 marks, 2 hours 30 minutes (English and General Knowledge)
- SSB test and interview
- 900 marks, over several days at an SSB centre
- Total
- 1,800 marks (written 900 + SSB 900)
- Marking
- Objective papers with negative marking for wrong answers
Who can apply
- Unmarried men and women are eligible.
- The age window is about 16.5 to 19.5 years, with exact birth dates given in each notification.
- Army wing: Class 12 pass or appearing, in any stream.
- Air Force and Naval wings (and the Naval Academy 10+2 entry): Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics.
- Medical and physical standards must be met.
Rules change from year to year. Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility in the official notice before you apply.
The written test
Both papers are objective (multiple choice). Wrong answers lose a fraction of the marks. Calculators and tables are not allowed.
| Paper | Time | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2 hours 30 minutes | 300 |
| General Ability Test (English and General Knowledge) | 2 hours 30 minutes | 600 |
| Total written | 900 |
The SSB interview
Candidates who clear the written test are called for the SSB. It lasts several days and tests intelligence, personality and officer-like qualities through screening, psychological tests, group tasks and a personal interview. Preparation for the SSB should begin early, with confidence, communication and fitness.
How to prepare
- 1
Master Class 11 and 12 Mathematics
The Mathematics paper is based on Class 10 to 12 topics. Practise regularly and build speed.
- 2
Build English and General Knowledge
Read daily, practise grammar and vocabulary, and revise science, history, geography and current affairs.
- 3
Solve previous papers
Practise with a timer and learn how negative marking affects your strategy.
- 4
Prepare for the SSB from the start
Work on communication, decision making, teamwork and physical fitness.
How Gyan Sanchar can help
Talk to us about NDA preparation, or book a free demo class. Our Mathematics faculty can also help you build the strong base this exam needs.
Frequently asked questions
How many times a year is the NDA exam held?
Twice a year. Each cycle has its own notification and dates.
Can girls apply for the NDA?
Yes. Unmarried women are eligible, as per the UPSC notification.
Which subjects do I need for the Air Force and Navy?
Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics. The Army wing accepts any stream. Check the notification for the exact rule.
Official sources
Dates, fees and eligibility are announced here. Always check the latest notice before you apply.
Gyan Sanchar is an independent coaching institute. It is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, the National Testing Agency, UPSC, the IITs or any other exam body. Exam names are used only to describe the exams.