The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year to recruit candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It is one of the most prestigious exams for young aspirants who want to serve the nation in the defence forces. Here’s everything you need to know about NDA Exam 2025, including important dates, application process, eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, results, and selection process.
NDA Exam 2025 Application Process
The application process for NDA 2025 is conducted online through the official UPSC website. Candidates must follow these steps to apply:
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Steps to Apply for NDA 2025
- Visit the official UPSC website (https://upsc.gov.in/).
- Click on ‘NDA & NA Examination’ and register on the One Time Registration (OTR) platform.
- Fill in the online application form with personal, academic, and contact details.
- Upload scanned images of your photograph and signature in the required format.
- Pay the application fee online via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General/OBC | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/Women | Exempted |
NDA Exam 2025 Important Dates
| Event | NDA (I) 2025 | NDA (II) 2025 |
| Notification Release | December 2024 | May 2025 |
| Online Application Starts | December 2024 | May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 2025 | June 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | March 2025 | August 2025 |
| NDA Exam Date | April 2025 | September 2025 |
| Result Declaration | May 2025 | October 2025 |
NDA Exam 2025 Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen, subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee settled in India before January 1, 1962.
- Educational Qualification:
- Army Wing: 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
- Navy & Air Force: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- Age Limit:
- NDA (I) 2025: Candidates born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009.
- NDA (II) 2025: Candidates born between January 2, 2007, and January 1, 2010.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates can apply.
- Physical Fitness: Candidates must meet the prescribed physical and medical standards.
NDA Exam 2025 Exam Pattern
- Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper-based Test)
- Duration: 5 hours (Mathematics – 2.5 hours, General Ability Test – 2.5 hours)
- Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Total Marks: 900 (Mathematics: 300, GAT: 600)
- Marking Scheme: +2.5 for correct answer in Maths, +4 for correct answer in GAT, -0.83 for incorrect answers in Maths, and -1.33 for incorrect answers in GAT.
Subject-Wise Exam Pattern
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
| Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 hours |
| General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2.5 hours |
| Total | 900 | 5 hours |
NDA Exam 2025 Syllabus
Mathematics
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Calculus
- Probability & Statistics
- Matrices and Determinants
General Ability Test (GAT)
- English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension
- General Knowledge: Current Affairs, Indian History, Geography, Science, Defence-Related Topics
NDA Exam 2025 Admit Card
- Admit cards will be released three weeks before the exam.
- Candidates must download them from the UPSC website.
- Carrying the admit card and a valid ID proof to the exam center is mandatory.
NDA Exam 2025 Result & Selection Process
- The written exam results will be declared on the UPSC website.
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview, which includes psychological tests, group tasks, and a personal interview.
- Final selection is based on written exam scores + SSB performance.
Documents Required for SSB Interview
- NDA Admit Card & Scorecard
- 10th & 12th Mark Sheets & Certificates
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card/PAN Card/Passport)
- Passport-size photographs
Conclusion
The NDA Exam is a golden opportunity for aspirants who wish to join the Indian Defence Forces. A well-structured study plan, strong conceptual knowledge, and regular practice of mock tests will help candidates succeed. Stay updated with official notifications and complete the registration process on time for a successful application.
