NDA Exam Guide 2027
NDA (National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination) is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. It is used for entry to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy. This guide covers who can apply, how selection works, what is tested and how to prepare.
- Defence
- Pen and paper
NDA at a glance
- Full name
- National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination
- Conducted by
- the Union Public Service Commission
- Used for
- entry to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy
- Mode
- Pen and paper
- Who can apply
- Class 12 (with Physics and Mathematics for the Air Force and Navy wings) within the age limits in the notification.
- What is tested
- Mathematics and the General Ability Test
- Official website
- upsc.gov.in
How NDA selection works
- 1Written examination
- 2SSB interview and tests
- 3Medical examination and final merit list
How to prepare for NDA
- Mathematics is the scoring lever; revise Class 11 and 12 topics thoroughly.
- Prepare for the SSB alongside the written test, not after it.
- Before you apply, read the latest official notification at upsc.gov.in. Dates, fees, vacancies and cut-offs change every cycle and are not listed here.
Choosing NDA coaching
Coaching helps most when you need structure, regular tests and a peer group. Ask any centre for the batch size, the full fee including GST, a trial class and last year's results with roll numbers.
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Frequently asked questions
What is NDA?+−
NDA (National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination) is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. It is used for entry to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy.
Who can apply for NDA?+−
Class 12 (with Physics and Mathematics for the Air Force and Navy wings) within the age limits in the notification.
What are the stages of NDA?+−
NDA runs in 3 stages: 1. Written examination; 2. SSB interview and tests; 3. Medical examination and final merit list.
What does NDA test?+−
NDA covers Mathematics and the General Ability Test.
Are the dates and fees for NDA on this page?+−
No. Dates, fees, vacancies and cut-offs change each cycle, so confirm them in the official notification at upsc.gov.in before you apply.