As we gear up for the NDA 1 2026, we’re excited to bring you the latest information on this prestigious examination. The National Defense Academy exam is a gateway to a rewarding career in the armed forces, and we understand how crucial it is for aspiring candidates to stay informed.
Our team has gathered all the essential details about the NDA 1 2026 Notification, exam dates, and eligibility criteria to help you prepare effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about NDA 1 2026. We’ll cover the application process, age limits, and selection procedures. You’ll also find insights into the exam pattern and tips to ace your preparation.
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or trying again, this article aims to give you a clear roadmap to navigate the NDA 1 2026 journey. Let’s dive in and set you on the path to realizing your dream of serving the nation.
NDA 1 2026 Notification Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the NDA 1 2026 notification, announcing the commencement of the application process for the 157th Course of the National Defence Academy and the 119th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC). This notification is a gateway for young aspirants to fulfill their dreams of serving the nation by joining the prestigious defence forces.
Key Dates for NDA 1 2026
| NDA 1 2026 EVENTS | DATES |
| NDA 1 2026 Application Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| NDA 1 2026 Application Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| NDA 1 2026 Exam Date | 12 April 2026 (SUNDAY) |
| NDA 1 2026 Admit Card Download Date | 3 weeks before the exam |
| NDA 1 2026 Result Date (Expected) | June – July 2026 |
NDA 1 2026 Vacancy Details
The UPSC has meticulously outlined the distribution of vacancies for the NDA 1 2026 examination. A total of 394 positions are up for grabs, with the following breakdowns:
| Organization | Total Vacancies | Female Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Army | 198 | 10 |
| Indian Navy | 37 | 5 |
| Indian Air Force – Flying | 90 | 2 |
| Indian Air Force – Ground Duties (Tech) | 16 | 2 |
| Indian Air Force – Ground Duties (Non-Tech) | 8 | 2 |
| Indian Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 21 | 3 |
Vacancies are provisional and may be changed depending on the availability of training capacity of National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy.
NDA 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the NDA 1 2026 exam, candidates must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria set by UPSC. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
Nationality
- Candidates must be citizens of India, or
- Candidates must be subjects of Nepal, or
- Candidates must be persons of Indian origin who have migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, and Ethiopia or Vietnam with the intention of permanent settlement.
Provided that a candidate belonging to categories (ii) and (iii), above shall be a person in whose favour a certificate of eligibility has been issued by the Government of India.
Certificate of eligibility will not, however, be necessary in the case of candidates who are Gorkha subjects of Nepal.
Age Limit and Marital Status
- Candidates must be unmarried.
- For NDA 1 2026, candidates must be born not earlier than July 1, 2007 and not later than July 1, 2010.
The date of birth accepted by the Commission is that entered in the Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate or in a certificate recognised by an Indian University as equivalent to Matriculation or in an extract from a Register of Matriculates maintained by a University which must be certified by the proper authority of the University or in the Secondary School Examination or an equivalent examination certificates.
Educational Qualification
- For Army Wing: Candidates must have passed the 12th class examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
- For Air Force and Naval Wing: Candidates must have passed the 12th class examination or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from a recognized board.
- 12th Appearing candidates can also apply for NDA 1 2026. (If they clear the SSB, they should have the 12th result by December 10, 2026)
Physicial Standards
- Candidates must meet the prescribed physical fitness standards as per the NDA 1 2026 notification.
Please note that these eligibility criteria are subject to change and candidates are advised to refer to the official NDA 1 2026 notification for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Fee
Candidates (excepting SC/ST candidates/female candidates / Wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs specified in Notification are exempted from payment of fee) are required to pay a fee of Rs. 100.
For the applicants in whose case payments details have not been received from the bank, they will be treated as fictitious payment cases and their applications will be rejected in the first instance.
A list of all such applicants shall be made available on the Commission’s website within two weeks after the last day of submission of online application.
The applicants shall be required to submit the proof of their fee payment within 10 days from the date of such communication either by hand or by speed post to the Commission. On receipt of documentary proof, genuine fee payment cases will be considered and their applications will be revived, if they are otherwise eligible.
NDA 1 2026 Application Process
The NDA Application Process is conducted online through the UPSC official website https://upsconline.nic.in., candidates must complete their applications within the specified deadline to avoid disqualification.
Steps to Apply:
Before applying check the new changes that have been brought as mentioned above.
- Registration: Visit the official website, https://upsconline.nic.in with four parts – Account Creation, Universal Registration, Common Application Form, and an Exam-Specific Form.
- Fill Application Form: Provide personal details, educational qualifications, and preferences for the armed forces.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and ID proof.
- Pay Application Fee: Submit the fee online using debit/credit cards or net banking.
- Submit Form: Review the details and submit the form.
NDA 1 2026 Exam Pattern
The NDA 1 2026 exam consists of a written examination and an SSB (Services Selection Board) interview. Let’s take a closer look at the exam pattern for each stage:
Written Examination
The written examination comprises two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT).
- Mathematics: This paper carries a total of 300 marks and consists of 120 questions. Each correct answer is awarded 2.5 marks, and there is a negative marking of 0.83 marks for each incorrect answer.
- General Ability Test (GAT): This paper carries a total of 600 marks and consists of 150 questions. Each correct answer is awarded 4 marks, and there is a negative marking of 1.33 marks for each incorrect answer.
Both papers are conducted in offline mode and the duration for each paper is 2.5 hours.
SSB Interview
Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for the SSB interview, which is a comprehensive selection process conducted over multiple days. The SSB interview assesses candidates on various aspects, including intelligence, personality, and suitability for a career in the armed forces.
NDA Exam Cut Off Marks
| NDA EXAM YEAR | WRITTEN EXAM MARKS | WRITTEN + SSB |
|---|---|---|
| NDA & NA (I) 2025 | 334 | 699 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2024 | 305 | 673 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2024 | 291 | 654 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2023 | 292 | 656 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2023 | 301 | 664 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2022 | 316 | 678 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2022 | 360 | 720 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2021 | 355 | 726 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2021 | 343 | 709 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2020 | 355 | 723 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2020 | 355 | 723 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2019 | 342 | 704 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2018 | 325 | 688 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2018 | 338 | 705 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2017 | 258 | 624 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2017 | 342 | 708 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2016 | 229 | 602 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2016 | 288 | 656 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2015 | 269 | 637 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2015 | 306 | 674 |
NDA 1 2026 Admit Card
The admit card for NDA 1 2026 will be released by UPSC on their official website. Candidates can download the admit card using their registration number or roll number. The admit card will contain important details such as the exam date, time, venue, and instructions for the examination. It is mandatory for candidates to carry the admit card to the exam center along with a valid photo ID proof.
NDA 1 2026 Written Result
The result of NDA 1 2026 will be declared by UPSC on their official website. Candidates can check their results by entering their roll number or name. The result will display the candidate’s qualifying status, marks will only be published after the final result of NDA 1 2026.
NDA 1 2026 Selection Process
The selection process for NDA 1 2026 consists of two stages: the written examination and the SSB interview.
- Written Examination: Candidates who qualify the written examination are shortlisted for the SSB interview based on their performance in the exam.
- SSB Interview: The SSB interview is conducted in multiple stages, including psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. Candidates are assessed on various parameters such as leadership qualities, communication skills, and physical fitness.
- Medical Examination: . This comprehensive check ensures you meet the strict physical and mental fitness standards required for officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
- Final Selection: Based on the combined performance in the written exam and SSB interview, the UPSC will prepare the final selection list and announce the successful candidates.
Candidate Helpline for Assistance
UPSC has set up a dedicated helpline to support candidates during the application process.
- Helpline Number: 011-24041001
- Working Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Working Days: Monday to Friday (except holidays)
Candidates can call this helpline for help with:
- Filling the application form
- Fee payment issues
- Uploading documents
- Any other application-related queries
Conclusion
The NDA 1 2026 notification presents a golden opportunity for young aspirants to join the esteemed National Defence Academy and serve the nation with pride. Make sure to carefully read and understand the official notification, fulfill the eligibility criteria, and prepare diligently for the exam. With dedication and hard work, you can pave the way for a successful career in the defence forces. Good luck!
