NDA 2026 - National Defence Academy Exam
NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is conducted by UPSC twice a year. It is the premier path to join Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as an officer after 12th standard. NDA is considered one of India's toughest and most prestigious exams.
NDA 2026 Eligibility
Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years. Education: 10+2 passed/appearing. For Army: Any stream. For Navy/Air Force: PCM in 12th mandatory. Marital Status: Unmarried males (and females from Nov 2023).
NDA 2026 Exam Pattern
Written Exam: Mathematics (300 marks, 120 questions), GAT - General Ability Test (600 marks, 150 questions). SSB Interview: 900 marks. Total: 1800 marks. Cut-off 2025: Written ~300, Overall ~700.
NDA Physical Standards 2026
Height: Army 157 cm, Navy 157 cm, Air Force 162 cm. Weight: Proportionate. Eyesight: Army 6/6, Navy 6/6 (no glasses), Air Force 6/6 uncorrected. Medical: Fit across all parameters.
SSB Interview Preparation
SSB (Services Selection Board) is a 5-day assessment. Stage 1: OIR test + PPDT. Stage 2: Psychology tests, GTO tasks, Personal Interview. Only 10-15% of SSB candidates get recommended.
NDA Salary After Selection
NDA cadets get ₹56,100/month during training. After commissioning as Lieutenant: ₹56,100-₹1,77,500/month + allowances + accommodation + medical. Lifetime pension included.
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