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The short answer
The National Defence Academy and Naval Academy examination is held by the Union Public Service Commission for entry into the Army, Navy and Air Force wings after Class 12. It has three parts: a written examination, a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, and a medical examination. The Army wing accepts candidates from any stream in the notice, while the Air Force and Naval wings ask for Physics and Mathematics in Class 12. Age, nationality, physical standards and the number of vacancies are set each time in the official notice, and the examination is held twice a year.
Admission rules change; confirm with the official notice.
The basics
Conducted by
UPSC (written test)
Interview by the Services Selection Board.
Qualification
Class 12 passed or appearing
Subject rules differ by wing.
Stages
Written test, SSB, medical
Merit list follows.
Held
Twice a year
See the notice for each cycle.
Training
At the National Defence Academy
Followed by training at the service academies.
The three wings and what they ask for
Subject and physical rules are in the notice. Check them for the cycle you are applying in.
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Army wingCheck stream rule
Class 12 pass, with the stream rule given in the notice. Students from different streams often qualify for this wing.
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Air Force and Naval wingsPhysics and Maths
Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics is required, along with the other conditions in the notice. A wing-wise medical standard also applies.
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Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry)Read the notice
A related entry route listed in the same notice. It has its own conditions on subjects and vacancies.
How to plan for the NDA route
- Read the current notice for eligibility, age, nationality, physical standards and the application window before you invest time.
- Study Mathematics and general ability carefully, since the written test covers both. Use NCERT-level Mathematics as your base.
- Build fitness and good habits early. The medical and physical standards are strict, so ask a doctor if you have a specific concern.
- Learn what the SSB tests, such as clarity of thought, teamwork and leadership, from official material. Avoid anyone who sells guaranteed selection.
- Keep a parallel plan, such as a degree, so you are not left without a path if selection does not happen.
- Talk to serving or retired officers about the daily reality of service life, not only the glamour.
Is the NDA route right for you?
The NDA route suits students who want a long career in uniform and are ready for physical training, discipline and postings that change often. If you are comparing it with other paths, careers for students interested in defence and the armed forces describes the other entry routes, including those after graduation.
It is also worth asking your family how they feel about the demands of service. A calm conversation before the exam is easier than after selection.
Frequently asked questions
Official sources to check
Use these for the current notice. Recruitment is free of agents and payments.
