Exam pattern/paper format
The written exam conducted by NDA. Part one Paper consists of Mathematics and Part Two Paper consists of General Ability Test (GAT) Paper - the total marks of Mathematics paper is 300.The total marks of GAT paper is 600. Thus, the NDA's Overall Marks 900.
Eligibility to Apply for NDA 2024
In order to fill up the application form, candidates must fulfill certain eligibility conditions in terms of age limit, educational qualifications and physical standards.
Age Limit
As per the age criteria of NDA exam, the candidate must fall in the range of 17 to 19 years minimum
Physical Standards
NDA & INA : Candidate should be physically fit as per physical standards for admission to National Defense Academy and Indian Naval Academy ( NDA / INI)
Category wise Minimum Height
- Tribals of Ladakh Region 155 cm
- Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep 155 cm
- Gorkhas, Nepali Assamese Garhwali Kumaoni Uttarakhand 152 cm
- Bhutan, Sikkim & North East Region 152cm.
The NDA exam is held to choose candidates for the National Defense Academy and Naval Academy. This exam has two parts: a written test and an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
NDA Syllabus
Mathematics
The Mathematics part of the syllabus covers:
- Algebra
- Matrices and Determinants
- Trigonometry
- Analytical Geometry
- Differential Calculus
- Integral Calculus and Differential Equations
- Vector Algebra
- Statistics and Probability
General Ability Test (GAT)
The GAT part of the syllabus includes:
- English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Synonyms, Antonyms, etc.
- General Knowledge: Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Current Events
How to register for NDA exam 2025
Process to register for NDA 2025 are :
- Candidates have to visit the Official NDA website to begin the registration process.
- Secondly, click on the OTR (one time registration ) button and fill in the necessary registration details.
- Then the students have to carefully fill the registration form which consists of two parts, PART 1 and PART 2. All details must be filled in properly to avoid any mistakes.
- Then the candidate will have to upload the necessary/required documents as well as their photograph and signature in the required format.
- Lastly, pay the application fee which amounts to Rs. 100/- for all category candidates. The candidates are free to pay it online or offline.
NDA EXAM attempts:
Being held twice a year, there are two attempts for the NDA exam: NDA 1 and NDA II, which are conducted twice a year in April and September respectively. There is also no specific limit on attempts for this paper. Candidates may keep trying until they reach the age of 19.5 years, as per the eligibility criteria.
Does this exam have any negative marking?
Yes, it is imperative for the candidates to note that this exam will be having negative marketing of 33% in the assigned marks for this paper. .
What are the 2025 Exam Dates for the NDA exam?
Here is a list of important dates to keep in mind for aspirants looking to give the NDA exam in 2025:
NDA 1
- Notification - December 2024
- Last date to apply- January 2025
- Exam date- 13th April, 2025
NDA 2
- Notification - June 2025
- Last date to apply - July 2025
- Exam date- 14th September, 2025.
Admit Card and Result.
The Admit Card for the exam is uploaded on the website around 3 weeks before the exam date. The result of the written exam is generally released on the UPSC website soon after around 2 months of the exam date. The SSB interview result too is released on the UPSC website after the SSB interview process.
Keeping in mind all this information candidates are also however advised to keep an eye on the latest dates and updates, because they may be subject to change. With consistent preparation, dedication and a positive mindset, the candidates can surely achieve success.
Coaching Institute
ONLINE
Here is a list of a few online coaching institutes which helps in preparation of NDA
- TCY ONLINE- provides online material, test series and solutions. No video concept.
- GRADEUP- online Videos and online material, test series and solutions.
- UNACADEMY- Only online lectures.
- SSB CRACK- Online lectures, test series and solutions.
Rather than opting for subscribed coaching only, students can also prepare by self study through YouTube and other free materials
Colleges / Coaching Institutes FOR Preparation of NDA EXAM
- DOON DEFENCE ACADEMY, Dehradun- This institute is located at Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun and it's estimated fee ranges from Rs.18k to 2,37,500. Duration of Training ranges from 1 month to 24 months.
- BAALNOI ACADEMY, Delhi- This institute holds a place in Delhi as well as in Jaipur. Its estimated fee is Rs.9,900- Rs.28,320. Duration of Training is 2-3 months.
- TDA- Target Defense Academy is located in Lucknow and it's fee ranges from Rs. 15k to Rs. 2,35,000. Duration of Training is from 6 months to 24 months.
- TARA INSTITUTE - it is located in Delhi, Mumbai, Gaya, Jabalpur, Dehradun. Its fee is Rs. 35k and duration of Training is for 90 days only.
- BRIGADIER DEFENCE ACADEMY - Located in Dehradun, it's fee ranges from Rs. 35k to 3,25,000 and duration of Training is for 6 months to 24 months.
- CADET ACADEMY- Located in the heart of India, Delhi, this academy offers training for NDA for only Rs. 12k- 60k and training duration is for 1-12 months only.
Some suggestion and documentation procedure for aspirants :
- Must reach the examination center at least 60 minutes prior to the reporting time.
- Must carry a black ball point pen
- You mustn't enter after the reporting time and aren't allowed to leave before the examination time ends.
- Compulsorily, carry your admit card along with a government approved Identity Card and photographs.
- No personal belongings or digital devices are allowed in the center so you must take good care while preparing to keep the exam tools .
- Never be nervous before the examination and prepare yourself well for it.
DRESS CODE: (For Written Exam)
For the written exam, you can wear formals or casuals whatever suits you but it must be a decent attire.
For SSB Interview
- DAY 1 : You must wear formal attire with leather shoes, light colour shirt and dark colour, trousers, well shaved(men), decent hairstyle.
- DAY2 : full formals as day 1. Those who have GTO for day 2 must wear white sport shoes with white socks, white shorts with white shirt, prefer lower and upper in winters.
- DAY 3 : dress code same as day 2, whenever you are called for the interview, make sure you have at least 40 min before your interview to change your clothes accordingly and get back to formals.
- DAY4 : one must be in full formals.
Documents Required :
- Scanned photograph and signature
- A photo ID
- Class 10th Marksheet
- Aadhar card
- Active Email Id with Phone number
- Extra pen for rough work
- Admit card
- Bank Details
- Pan Card
- Passport size photograph
- Caste Certificate and certificate of Eligibility
- Address proof
- Original Class 12th marksheet
Queries solved in this article :
- NDA exam date 2024
- NDA form 2024
- NDA result 2024
- What does NDA stand for
- Who are eligible for NDA
- What is NDA and its salary