National Defence Academy Exam Pattern
National Defence Academy Exam Pattern
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.
Table of Contents
NDA Written Examination Pattern
| 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).
NDA Marking Scheme 2026
- Total Marks (Written Exam): 900
- Each question carries specific marks as per subject weightage.
- Negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers.
- Unattempted questions do not attract penalty.
Candidates must score minimum qualifying marks in each paper to proceed to the SSB stage.
SSB Interview Pattern
Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.
- Total Marks (SSB Interview): 900
- Stage I: Screening Test (OIR Test & Picture Perception Discussion Test)
- Stage II: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, and Personal Interview
- Medical Examination after SSB clearance
Final merit list is prepared based on combined written and SSB scores (Total 1800 marks).
National Defence Academy Exam Pattern FAQs
How many papers are there in the NDA written examination?
There are two papers in the NDA written exam. Mathematics and General Ability Test are conducted. Both are held on the same day.
What is the total marks for the NDA written exam?
The written examination carries 900 marks. Mathematics is 300 marks. GAT is 600 marks.
Is there negative marking in the NDA examination?
Yes, negative marking is applicable. Incorrect answers attract a penalty. Avoid random guessing.
What is included in the NDA General Ability Test paper?
GAT includes English and General Knowledge. GK covers science, history, geography, and current affairs. Total marks are 600.
What happens after qualifying the NDA written examination?
Qualified candidates are called for SSB interview. It is a 5-day selection process. Medical tests follow SSB.
How many total marks are considered for final NDA selection?
Total marks considered are 1800. 900 from written exam. 900 from SSB interview.
Is NDA exam conducted online or offline?
The NDA written exam is conducted offline. It is a pen-and-paper test. Answer sheets are OMR based.
Do candidates need to pass both papers separately in NDA?
Yes, minimum qualifying marks are required in both papers. Failing in one paper leads to disqualification. Overall score is also considered.