The National Defence Academy (NDA) examination is one of the top and widely popular defence entrance exams in the country. Here is an opportunity for the youth to serve the Nation by joining the Army, Navy or Air force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy through the Union public service commission (UPSC) through the NDA examination. For several decades, this exam becomes the important milestone for people interested in the service in the armed forces, providing extraordinary challenges and pride for servants to the country. This article covers the application form for NDA 1 2025, eligibility criteria, the pattern of the examination, and selection procedure.
Overview of NDA 1 2025
The UPSC has also changed the last date to apply for the NDA 1 2025 from 1st January 2025. It is released on December 11, 2024 to give most important information regarding the eligibility criteria, examination pattern, syllabus and how to apply etc. The NDA 1 2025 written exam will take Place on the 13th of April, 2025. _any candidate who qualifies these criteria and even those who are writing the Class XII exams can take this exam.
For the candidates who could not apply for NDA 1, there is going to be NDA 2 2025 session available for them. NDA 2 2025 will be conducted on September 14, 2025 and the application for the same would be open from May 28, 2025 to June 17, 2025. This two sessions format make it possible for the candidates to achieve their life long dreams of being part of armed forces.
Key Highlights of NDA 2025
| Exam Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (NDA & NA) |
| Conducting Body | UPSC |
| Exam Level | National |
| Frequency | Twice a year (April & September) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline |
| Stages of Exam | Written exam and SSB Interview |
| Purpose | Admission to NDA and INAC |
| Exam Fees | INR 100 for General and OBC male candidates; no fees for SC/ST/Women |
| Total Marks | Written Exam: 900; SSB Interview: 900 |
| Language/Medium | English and Hindi |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
| Contact Details | 011-23385271/011-23381125/011-23098543 |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| NDA 1 Notification | December 11, 2024 |
| NDA 1 Application Period | December 11, 2024 – January 1, 2025 |
| NDA 1 Exam Date | April 13, 2025 |
| NDA 2 Notification | May 28, 2025 |
| NDA 2 Application Period | May 28, 2025 – June 17, 2025 |
| NDA 2 Exam Date | September 14, 2025 |
Application Process
To apply for NDA 1 2025, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to https://upsconline.nic.in/upsc/OTRP/.
- Complete Part I Registration: Provide basic details, choose exam preferences, and generate a registration number.
- Log In for Part II Registration: Use the registration number to log in and fill out additional details.
- Upload Documents: Attach required photo-identity proof and a recent photograph.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay INR 100 (if applicable) online or offline.
- Submit and Print: Review the form, submit it, and print a copy for future reference.
Fee Exemptions: SC/ST candidates, women, and sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs are exempted from the application fee.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Limit
| Exam Session | Age Range |
|---|---|
| NDA 1 2025 | Born between July 2, 2005, and July 1, 2008 |
| NDA 2 2025 | Born between January 2, 2005, and January 1, 2008 |
Educational Qualifications
| Wing | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Army Wing of NDA | Passed Class 12 from a recognized board |
| Air Force, Navy, and Naval Academy | Passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Math |
Eligibility for Women
Unmarried female candidates meeting the same age and educational qualifications as male candidates can apply.
Exam Pattern
| Section | Duration | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2.5 hours | 120 | 300 |
| General Ability Test | 2.5 hours | 150 | 600 |
| Total (Written) | – | 270 | 900 |
| SSB Interview | – | – | 900 |
| Grand Total | – | – | 1800 |
The written exam consists of Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). A minimum of 25% marks in each subject is required to qualify.
Syllabus
Mathematics
Topics include Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Matrices, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry, Probability, and Statistics.
GAT
Divided into:
- Part A (English): Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion.
- Part B (General Knowledge): Covers Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Social Studies, General Science, and Current Events.
Vacancies
| Wing | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Army | 208 (including 10 for females) |
| Navy | 42 (including 6 for females) |
| Air Force (Flying) | 92 (including 2 for females) |
| Air Force (Ground) | 28 (including 4 for females) |
| Naval Academy | 36 (including 5 for females) |
| Total | 404 |
Admit Card
The admit card for NDA 1 2025 will be available online. Candidates must:
- Visit the UPSC website.
- Log in using their registration ID or roll number.
- Download and print the admit card.
- Carry it with valid photo ID to the exam center.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly review the topics listed in Mathematics and GAT.
- Use Recommended Books:
- Mathematics: RS Aggarwal, ES Ramasamy.
- English: Wren & Martin, SP Bakshi.
- General Knowledge: Manorama Yearbook, Pratiyogita Darpan.
- Practice Previous Papers: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve time management.
- Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to gauge preparation.
Cut-off Marks
| Stage | Cut-off |
|---|---|
| Written Exam | 291 (minimum 25% per subject) |
| Final Selection | 654 |
Salary and Stipend
During training, Gentlemen Cadets receive a stipend of INR 56,100. Post-training, they are commissioned at Level 10 of the Pay Matrix.
Selection Process
- Written Exam: Candidates who meet the cut-off are shortlisted.
- SSB Interview: Consists of two stages—OIR/PP&DT in Stage 1 and Psychology/Group Tasks/Conference in Stage 2.
- Final Merit List: Based on written exam and interview scores.
The NDA 1 2025 exam is an exceptional opportunity for candidates aspiring to serve the nation. Ensure timely applications and thorough preparation to achieve success.
Conclusion
The NDA 1 2025 exam is not only a test of knowledge but actual commitment and devotion towards a cause and country. The nature of the application process and the eligibility criteria together with interview techniques hence guarantees the examination only competent and dedicated students who would wish to pursue their careers in commerce studies. Prospective applicants are encouraged to start revising early enough and prepare for the written test and the SSB interview part.
In the given double-testing schedule, as many attempts are provided as sessions for the students, which gives an opportunity to think to everyone and effectively plan attempts. The women candidates for the Browns, joining this prestigious journey reflect change and the inclusion in the armed forces. Due to the present and potential employment, opportunity to be proud as an Indian, and growth, people still have eyes on NDA.
One would like to stress that preparation for the NDA exam requires significant efforts, dedication and high levels of work. It is therefore important that candidates familiarize themselves with the syllabus, and practice for the test frequently, and if in doubt there is always help. For those who are ready to take up the challenge and prepared to contribute towards the nation’s defence the NDA 1 2025 is one of the best avenues to kick start a dignified, proud and fulfilling carrier in the armed forces. Think carefully, do not distract yourself and take this step towards your dream result.