The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the UPSC NDA NA I Exam Notification 2026, announcing a total of 394 vacancies for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA). This is your golden opportunity to join the elite ranks of the Army, Navy, and Air Force as a Lieutenant. With applications opening today, December 10, 2025, don’t miss out on this prestigious recruitment drive. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from eligibility criteria and application process to exam dates, syllabus, and preparation tips. Read on to kickstart your journey towards a rewarding career in defense!
What is the UPSC NDA NA I Exam 2026?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I) 2026 is a national-level entrance exam conducted by UPSC twice a year (NDA I and NDA II). It serves as the gateway for unmarried male and female candidates to secure admission into the NDA in Pune and the NA in Ezhimala, Kerala. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training to become commissioned officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
This year’s NDA NA I 2026 notification highlights 394 posts, a slight dip from last year’s 406, but still offering immense scope for aspiring patriots. The exam not only tests your academic prowess but also your physical fitness and leadership qualities through a multi-stage selection process.
Key Dates for UPSC NDA NA I Exam 2026
Mark these dates in your calendar to stay ahead in the competition. Missing deadlines could cost you your spot!
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | December 10, 2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | December 10, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | December 30, 2025 (till 6:00 PM) |
| Application Correction Window | To be announced (post-December 30) |
| Written Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
| SSB Interview | To be announced (post-written exam results) |
Applications are accepted exclusively online via the official UPSC website. Apply early to secure your preferred exam center!
Vacancy Details: 394 Posts Across Army, Navy, Air Force, and NA
The UPSC NDA 2026 vacancies are distributed as follows, with reservations for female candidates promoting gender inclusivity in the armed forces:
| Academy/Wing | Male Vacancies | Female Vacancies | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDA – Army | 198 | 10 | 208 |
| NDA – Navy | 39 | 3 | 42 |
| NDA – Air Force (Flying) | 32 | – | 32 |
| NDA – Air Force (Ground Duties) | 60 | 2 | 62 |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 21 | 3 | 24 |
| Grand Total | 370 | 24 | 394 |
These figures include tentative reservations for SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories as per government norms. For the exact breakdown, refer to the official notification PDF on upsc.gov.in.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC NDA NA I 2026
Before applying, ensure you meet the NDA eligibility 2026 requirements. UPSC is strict on these criteria:
Nationality
- Must be an Indian citizen, or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, or a person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries.
Age Limit
- Born not earlier than July 2, 2007, and not later than July 1, 2010 (both days inclusive).
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
Educational Qualification
- For Army Wing: Passed or appearing in Class 12 (10+2 pattern) from a recognized board.
- For Air Force and Naval Wings: Passed or appearing in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as compulsory subjects.
Physical Standards
- Height: Minimum 157 cm for Army (relaxable for certain regions); 162.5 cm for Air Force/Navy.
- Vision: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other (correctable to 6/6).
- No major ailments or color blindness. Detailed medical standards are in the notification.
Candidates appearing for Class 12 boards in 2026 can apply provisionally, but must provide proof of passing by the SSB interview stage.
How to Apply Online for UPSC NDA NA I Exam 2026
Applying for the NDA 2026 application form is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to upsconline.nic.in or upsc.gov.in.
- One-Time Registration (OTR): If not registered, click “One Time Registration” and provide basic details like name, DOB, email, and mobile number. You’ll receive an OTR ID and password.
- Fill Part I of the Form: Log in using OTR credentials, select “NDA & NA (I) 2026” from notifications, and enter personal, educational, and address details.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload photo (20-300 KB, JPEG), signature (10-200 KB, JPEG), and ID proof.
- Pay Application Fee:
- General/OBC Male: ₹100 (via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI).
- Exempted: SC/ST/Females/Sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs.
- Submit and Print: Review the form, submit, and download the confirmation page. No hard copy is required.
Pro Tip: Use a stable internet connection and keep scanned documents ready. The direct apply link is active now – Apply Online for NDA NA I 2026.
Selection Process: From Written Exam to Commissioned Officer
Clearing the NDA selection process 2026 demands holistic preparation:
- Written Examination: Objective-type papers (900 marks total).
- Mathematics (300 marks, 2.5 hours).
- General Ability Test (GAT) (600 marks, 2.5 hours) – Covers English, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, etc.
- Negative marking: 1/3rd for wrong answers.
- SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates (based on written cutoff) undergo a 5-day Services Selection Board (SSB) test (900 marks).
- Stage I: Screening (Officer Intelligence Rating + Picture Perception & Description Test).
- Stage II: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, Personal Interview, and Conference.
- Medical Examination: Thorough check-up at designated military hospitals.
- Merit List: Final selection based on combined written + SSB scores. Training commences at NDA/NA post-merit list.
Expected written cutoff: Around 350-400 marks (varies yearly).
Syllabus and Exam Pattern for NDA NA I 2026
The NDA syllabus 2026 emphasizes Class 11-12 level concepts:
- Mathematics: Algebra, Matrices, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry, Differential Calculus, Vector Algebra, Statistics, Probability.
- GAT: English (200 marks) + General Knowledge (400 marks) – Physics (100), Chemistry (60), General Science (40), History (80), Geography (80), Current Events (40).
Exam Pattern:
| Paper | Duration | Marks | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2.5 hours | 300 | 120 |
| GAT | 2.5 hours | 600 | 150 |
| Total | 5 hours | 900 | 270 |
Download the detailed syllabus from the official notification.
Preparation Tips to Crack UPSC NDA NA I Exam 2026
With fierce competition (over 5 lakh applicants expected), strategic preparation is key:
- Build a Strong Foundation: Focus on NCERT books for Class 11-12 (especially PCM for technical wings).
- Practice Mock Tests: Solve previous years’ papers and take timed mocks to handle 2.5-hour papers.
- Current Affairs Mastery: Read newspapers (The Hindu/Indian Express) daily; use apps like BYJU’s or Unacademy for quizzes.
- Physical Fitness: Start running, push-ups, and yoga – SSB tests endurance.
- Time Management: Allocate 4-6 hours daily; join coaching if needed (e.g., Baalnoi Academy or online platforms).
- Resources: RS Aggarwal (Maths), Lucent’s GK, Wren & Martin (English).
Aim for 70%+ in mocks to stay competitive. Remember, consistency beats intensity!
Why Choose NDA NA? A Career of Honor and Adventure
Joining through NDA NA I 2026 isn’t just a job – it’s a life of discipline, leadership, and national service. Graduates receive a stipend during training (₹56,100/month post-commissioning) and perks like housing, medical benefits, and pension. Serve your country while exploring the world – from Siachen patrols to naval voyages!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UPSC NDA NA I Exam 2026
Q1: Can female candidates apply for NDA 2026?
Yes, unmarried females are eligible for all wings, with 24 reserved vacancies.
Q2: What is the NDA exam fee for 2026?
₹100 for General/OBC males; exempted for others.
Q3: Is Physics and Maths compulsory for all wings?
No – only for Air Force and Naval Academy. Army wing requires general Class 12.
Q4: When will the NDA 2026 admit card be released?
Expected in March 2026, downloadable from upsc.gov.in.
Q5: How many attempts are allowed for NDA?
No limit, but age restricts to 2-3 attempts typically.
The UPSC NDA NA I Exam Notification 2026 with 394 posts is a clarion call for the youth of India. With just 20 days to apply, gear up now – download the notification, register online, and start your prep marathon. A career in defense awaits those who dare to dream big. Stay motivated, stay fit, and remember: The Indian Armed Forces need leaders like you!
Download Official Notification
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