The UPSC NDA & NA Exam 2026 is one of India’s most prestigious defence recruitment examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It offers young candidates the opportunity to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as Class-1 Commissioned Officers after completing world-class training at the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune. Every year, lakhs of aspirants apply for this exam, making it highly competitive and rewarding. NDA 2026 is expected to bring significant updates in exam dates, eligibility rules, and selection procedures. In this article, you will find complete, authentic and updated details to help you apply and prepare successfully.
UPSC NDA 2026 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UPSC NDA & NA Exam 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Frequency | Twice a year (NDA 1 & NDA 2) |
| Selection Stages | Written Exam + SSB Interview + Medical |
| Training Academy | National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
NDA Exam 2026 – Important Dates (Expected)
NDA 1 2026
- Notification Release: December 2025
- Application Start: December 2025
- Last Date to Apply: January 2026
- Admit Card: March 2026
- Exam Date: April 2026
NDA 2 2026
- Notification Release: May 2026
- Application Start: May 2026
- Last Date to Apply: June 2026
- Admit Card: August 2026
- Exam Date: September 2026
NDA 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Army Wing
- Passed 12th (Any Stream: Arts / Commerce / Science)
Navy & Air Force
- 12th with Physics and Mathematics compulsory
Age Limit for NDA 2026
Strictly based on date of birth:
NDA 1 2026
- Born between 2 July 2007 – 1 July 2010
NDA 2 2026
- Born between 2 January 2008 – 1 January 2011
✔ No age relaxation allowed.
Gender & Marital Status
- Unmarried Male & Female candidates only.
NDA 2026 Physical Standards
✔ Height Requirements
- Army: 157 cm
- Navy: 157 cm
- Air Force: 163 cm
- Girls: 152 cm
✔ Eyesight
- 6/6 to 6/12 (correctable)
✔ Fitness
- Running
- Push-ups
- Sit-ups
- Swimming (Navy & Air Force)
NDA 2026 Selection Process
- Written Examination (900 Marks)
- SSB Interview (900 Marks)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
NDA 2026 Exam Pattern
1. Mathematics
- 120 Questions
- 300 Marks
- Duration: 2.5 Hours
2. GAT (General Ability Test)
- 150 Questions
- 600 Marks
- Duration: 2.5 Hours
NDA 2026 Syllabus (Detailed)
Mathematics
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Calculus
- Coordinate Geometry
- Probability
- Matrices & Determinants
- Vector Algebra
GAT – English + General Knowledge
English (200 Marks)
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
- Synonyms, Antonyms
- Reading Comprehension
General Knowledge (400 Marks)
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- History
- Geography
- Polity
- Current Affairs
NDA 2026 Salary
During Training
- ₹56,100/month (Stipend)
After Commissioning
- ₹70,000 – ₹1,20,000/month
- House Allowance
- Medical
- Uniform
- Travel Concession
- Lifetime Pension
How to Apply Online for NDA 2026
- Visit UPSC Website – https://upsc.gov.in
- Open NDA & NA Examination 2026
- Complete Part-1 Registration
- Fill Part-2 with personal, exam centre and academic details
- Upload photo & signature
- Pay the application fee
- Submit form & download confirmation
Application Fee
- General / OBC: ₹100
- SC / ST / Female: Free
Important Links
| Link | Status |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
Conclusion
The UPSC NDA & NA Exam 2026 is an excellent opportunity for young aspirants who dream of becoming officers in the Indian Armed Forces. With proper preparation, awareness of eligibility, and timely application, candidates can significantly improve their chances of success. Stay updated with official notifications and start your preparation early for the best results.