National Defence Academy Overview
National Defence Academy Overview
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is India’s premier joint services training institution where cadets of the Army, Navy, and Air Force train together before joining their respective service academies.
Admission to NDA is conducted through the NDA & NA Examination organized by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) followed by a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The academy is located in Khadakwasla, Pune.
Table of Contents
NDA 2026 Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | National Defence Academy |
| Conducting Body (Exam) | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Academy Location | Khadakwasla, Pune |
| Course Duration | 3 Years (Academy Training) |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a Year (NDA I & NDA II) |
| Selection Stages | Written Exam + SSB Interview + Medical |
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Indian citizen (as per UPSC rules).
- Age Limit: Generally 16.5 to 19.5 years.
- Educational Qualification:
- Army Wing: 10+2 from a recognized board.
- Air Force & Navy Wings: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- Only unmarried male and female candidates (as per latest notification) are eligible.
Selection Process
- UPSC Written Examination (Mathematics + General Ability Test).
- SSB Interview (5-day assessment process).
- Medical Examination.
- Final Merit List based on combined scores.
Candidates must qualify both written exam and SSB interview to be included in the final merit list.
Training & Career Path
- 3 years of joint training at NDA.
- Further 1 year specialized training at respective service academies.
- Commission as officers in Indian Armed Forces.
NDA cadets develop leadership, discipline, physical fitness, and academic excellence during training.
National Defence Academy FAQs
What is the National Defence Academy and what is its role in officer training?
NDA is India’s joint services academy. Cadets from Army, Navy, and Air Force train together. It prepares candidates for commissioned officer roles.
How many times is the NDA exam conducted in a year?
The NDA exam is conducted twice a year. They are referred to as NDA I and NDA II. Notifications are released by UPSC.
What subjects are included in the NDA written examination?
The written exam includes Mathematics and General Ability Test. GAT covers English and General Knowledge. Physics, Chemistry, History, and Current Affairs are included.
Is Physics and Mathematics compulsory for NDA Air Force and Navy wings?
Yes, Physics and Mathematics are mandatory. Candidates must have studied these subjects in 10+2. This requirement does not apply to Army wing.
What happens after qualifying the NDA written examination?
Candidates are called for the SSB interview. The interview lasts for five days. Medical tests follow successful interview clearance.
What is the duration of training at the National Defence Academy?
Training at NDA lasts for three years. Cadets receive academic and military training. Further training is completed at service academies.
Are female candidates eligible to apply for NDA?
Yes, female candidates are eligible as per recent Supreme Court ruling. They must meet all eligibility criteria. Selection process remains the same.
What is the age limit for applying to NDA 2026?
Candidates must generally be between 16.5 and 19.5 years. Exact dates are mentioned in UPSC notification. Age relaxation is not applicable.