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National Defence Academy
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the Joint Services academy of the Indian Armed Forces, where cadets of the three services, the Army, the Navy and the Air Force train together before they go on to respective service academies for further pre-commissioning training. The NDA is located at Khadakwasla near Pune, Maharashtra. It is the first tri-service academy in the world.​
NDA alumni have led and fought in every major conflict in which the Indian Armed Forces has been called to action since the academy was established. The alumni include 3 Param Vir Chakra recipients and 12 Ashoka Chakra recipients. National Defence Academy has produced 27 service Chiefs Of Staff till date. Current Chiefs Of Staff of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force are all NDA alumni.
NDA Exam Overview
The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year, is the gateway for admission to the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force wings. It is one of the most prestigious defence entrance exams for candidates aspiring to serve the nation as commissioned officers.
NDA Vacancies
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National Defence Academy (NDA): 355 seats (208 for Army, 55 for Navy, 72 for Air Force)
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Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme): 55 seats
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Total Vacancies: ~390 (subject to change based on training capacity)
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality:
A candidate must be:
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A citizen of India,or
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A subject of Bhutan or Nepal, or
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A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st Jan 1962, intending to settle permanently, or
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A person of Indian origin migrated from select countries (e.g., Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, etc.) with the intention of permanent settlement.
Educational Qualification:
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Army Wing: Passed 10+2 (any stream).
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Air Force & Naval Wing / Naval Academy: Passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
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Students appearing in 10+2 exams are also eligible to apply.
Age Limit:
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16.5 to 19.5 years (as notified by UPSC).
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Unmarried male and female candidates can apply.
NDA Exam Pattern & Syllabus
Written Examination (900 Marks):
Mathematics – 300 Marks, 2.5 hours
Algebra, Trigonometry, Probability, Matrices & Determinants, Geometry, Calculus, Vector Algebra
General Ability Test (GAT) – 600 Marks, 2.5 hours
English, General Knowledge (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Civics, Geography, Current Affairs)
Selection Process:
Written Exam (Mathematics + GAT)
SSB Interview – Psychological tests, group activities, and personal interview
Medical Examination – To ensure fitness for armed forces
Training & Career Path
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Candidates selected for Indian Naval Academy undergo a 4-year B.Tech program and can join Executive & Technical branches (subject to vacancies).
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NDA cadets undergo rigorous training at NDA Khadakwasla, Pune, before moving to respective service academies (IMA, INA, AFA).
Important Notes
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Every candidate for the Air Force is given the Pilot Aptitude Test only once. If failed, they cannot reapply for Air Force/Navy flying branches.
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Final merit list is prepared based on written exam + SSB interview + medical fitness.
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Success in the exam does not guarantee admission; suitability and medical standards must be met.​​
The NDA exam is a golden opportunity for young aspirants to join the Indian Armed Forces as future leaders and officers.