The National Defence Academy (NDA) is one of the most prestigious institutions in India that trains cadets for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The NDA exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and serves as a gateway for young aspirants who dream of serving the nation through the Indian Armed Forces.

This blog covers all the essential aspects of the NDA exam including eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, selection process, and preparation tips to help you crack the NDA 2025 examination.

1. What is NDA?

The NDA is a joint services academy where cadets of the Army, Navy, and Air Force train together before they go on to their respective service academies. Located in Khadakwasla, Pune, the NDA grooms future officers of the Indian Armed Forces through military and academic training.

2. NDA 2025 Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of India or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal. Tibetan refugees who came before January 1, 1962, are also eligible.
• Gender: Both boys and girls are eligible to apply for NDA 2025.
• Age Limit: Candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years.
• Marital Status: Only unmarried candidates are eligible.
• Educational Qualification:
  • Army Wing: 12th pass from a recognized board.
  • Navy & Air Force: 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics.

3. NDA 2025 Exam Pattern

The NDA written exam consists of two papers:

• Paper 1 – Mathematics: 300 marks
• Paper 2 – General Ability Test (GAT): 600 marks

Total Marks: 900

Time Duration: 2.5 hours for each paper

Negative Marking: 1/3rd of marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer.

4. NDA Syllabus 2025

Mathematics (300 Marks)

• Algebra
• Trigonometry
• Analytical Geometry
• Statistics and Probability
• Calculus
• Vector Algebra
• Matrices and Determinants

General Ability Test (600 Marks)

• English (200 Marks): Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension
• General Knowledge (400 Marks): Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs

5. NDA Selection Process

The selection process involves:

1. Written Examination conducted by UPSC
2. SSB Interview (Services Selection Board): 5-day assessment involving psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interview
3. Medical Examination to assess physical and mental fitness

Final merit is based on the combined scores of the written exam and SSB interview.

6. How to Prepare for NDA 2025?

• Start early and understand the complete syllabus and exam pattern.
• Use NCERT textbooks and standard reference books for concept clarity.
• Practice mock tests and previous year question papers.
• Improve communication and general awareness for SSB interview.
• Stay physically active and build stamina for physical fitness rounds.

7. Important Dates (Tentative) for NDA 2025

• NDA 1 Notification: December 2024
• NDA 1 Exam Date: April 2025
• NDA 2 Notification: May 2025
• NDA 2 Exam Date: September 2025

Conclusion

The NDA exam is a golden opportunity for students aspiring to serve the nation with pride and honor. With the right preparation strategy, determination, and consistency, clearing the NDA exam becomes an achievable goal. Stay focused, plan your study schedule wisely, and most importantly, believe in your ability to succeed.

For NDA study materials, mock tests, and previous year questions, visit www.more-marks.com.