The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam Pattern 2026 is defined by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The NDA written examination consists of two objective-type papers conducted on the same day.
Candidates must qualify both the written examination and the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview to secure admission to the National Defence Academy.
| Paper | Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 Hours |
| Paper II | General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2.5 Hours |
Both papers are conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode. Questions are objective-type (MCQs).
Candidates must score minimum qualifying marks in each paper to proceed to the SSB stage.
Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.
Final merit list is prepared based on combined written and SSB scores (Total 1800 marks).
There are two papers in the NDA written exam. Mathematics and General Ability Test are conducted. Both are held on the same day.
The written examination carries 900 marks. Mathematics is 300 marks. GAT is 600 marks.
Yes, negative marking is applicable. Incorrect answers attract a penalty. Avoid random guessing.
GAT includes English and General Knowledge. GK covers science, history, geography, and current affairs. Total marks are 600.
Qualified candidates are called for SSB interview. It is a 5-day selection process. Medical tests follow SSB.
Total marks considered are 1800. 900 from written exam. 900 from SSB interview.
The NDA written exam is conducted offline. It is a pen-and-paper test. Answer sheets are OMR based.
Yes, minimum qualifying marks are required in both papers. Failing in one paper leads to disqualification. Overall score is also considered.