Exam prep·India· 5 min read

NDA Entrance Guide

A neutral, factual overview of the National Defence Academy entrance — what it is, the broad selection process, and how to approach it — with eligibility deferred to the official source.

What the NDA entrance is

The National Defence Academy (NDA) trains cadets for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Entry is through an examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), generally held twice a year, and is one of the routes to join the armed forces after Class 12.

The broad selection process

Selection usually involves a written examination followed by the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, along with medical and other requirements. Eligibility includes age, marital status, and subject conditions — for example, the Air Force and Navy wings generally require Physics and Mathematics. The exact eligibility and pattern are set officially.

Written examination (conducted by UPSC)
SSB interview and medical requirements
Subject and age eligibility set officially

How to prepare

Preparation typically covers mathematics and a general ability paper, alongside physical fitness and awareness for the later stages. Building fundamentals and steady practice, along with fitness, suits the multi-stage nature of the process.

Use official information

Confirm the current eligibility, subjects, and pattern in the official UPSC NDA notification, as these are set officially and can change. This guide does not quote cut-offs, and no preparation can guarantee selection.

Frequently asked questions

Who conducts the NDA entrance exam?

The written examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), generally twice a year, followed by the SSB interview and other requirements.

Can I join the NDA after Class 12?

Yes, the NDA is one route to the armed forces after Class 12, subject to official eligibility including age and, for some wings, Physics and Mathematics. Confirm in the official notification.

Do all NDA wings need Physics and Maths?

The Air Force and Navy wings generally require Physics and Mathematics, while the Army wing has different subject requirements. Check the current official eligibility.

Official sources

This guide explains the process and is for guidance only. Eligibility, dates, fees and rules change every year — always confirm the current details on the official site before you act.

Verified against: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) — official site.

Last verified: 2026-06-03.