NDA Exam 2025 Dates OUT, Age Limit & Eligibility & Yeh Jaan Lo, Phir Apply Karo

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is one of India’s most prestigious. It is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is for those who want to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. The NDA Exam 2025 is expected to witness high participation from aspirants aiming to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. This article is a guide on NDA 2025. It covers its dates, eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, and prep tips.

NDA Exam 2025

The NDA exam is conducted twice a year—NDA (I) and NDA (II). The notification for NDA (I) 2025 will be released in December 2024, and the exam is scheduled for April 13, 2025. NDA (II) 2025’s notification will follow in May 2025, with the exam date set for September 14, 2025.

Here’s an overview of the key details for the NDA Exam 2025:

Particulars Details
Exam Name National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (NDA & NA)
Conducting Body Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Exam Level National
Frequency Twice a year (April & September)
Mode of Exam Offline (Pen and Paper)
Stages Written Exam and SSB Interview
Exam Fees INR 100 (General/OBC); Exempted for SC/ST/Women
Total Marks 1800 (900 for Written Exam, 900 for SSB Interview)
Language of Exam English and Hindi

NDA Exam 2025 Notification and Important Dates

UPSC issues two separate notifications for the NDA exam each year. The notifications provide detailed information about the application process, eligibility, and exam syllabus. Below are the key dates for NDA 2025:

NDA 1 2025

  • Notification Release: December 11, 2024

  • Application Form Availability: December 11, 2024, to December 31, 2024

  • Exam Date: April 13, 2025

NDA 2 2025

  • Notification Release: May 28, 2025

  • Application Form Availability: May 28, 2025, to June 17, 2025

  • Exam Date: September 14, 2025

Aspirants are advised to regularly check the official UPSC website to stay updated on announcements and changes.

Eligibility Criteria for NDA 2025

The NDA Exam has eligibility criteria. They include nationality, age, education, and fitness. Let’s break down each criterion:

1. Nationality

Candidates must be:

  • A citizen of India, or

  • A subject of Bhutan/Nepal, or

  • A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of settling permanently.

2. Age Limit

Only unmarried male and female candidates born between July 2, 2005, and July 1, 2008 are eligible to apply.

3. Educational Qualifications

  • Army Wing: Candidates must have passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board.

  • Naval Wing, Air Force, and INA (Indian Naval Academy): Candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics.

  • Candidates appearing for the Class 12 exam in 2025 are also eligible to apply.

4. Marital Status

Only unmarried candidates are eligible. Candidates must remain unmarried until the completion of their training.

5. Physical Standards

Candidates must meet the physical fitness standards prescribed by the NDA. Key requirements include:

  • Running 2.4 km in 15 minutes

  • Performing a specified number of sit-ups, push-ups, and chin-ups

  • No history of mental illness or severe medical conditions

NDA 2025 Exam Pattern

The NDA exam is divided into two stages: the Written Exam and the SSB Interview.

Written Exam

The written exam consists of two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The detailed exam pattern is as follows:

Subject Duration No. of Questions Maximum Marks
Mathematics 2.5 hours 120 300
General Ability Test 2.5 hours 150 600
Total 5 hours 270 900

Negative Marking: 0.83 marks for incorrect answers in Mathematics and 1.33 marks in GAT.

Medium: English and Hindi

Academy Wing Vacancies
National Defence Academy Army 208 (10 for female candidates)
Navy 42 (6 for female candidates)
Air Force Flying: 92 (2 for females)
Ground Duties (Tech): 18 (2 for females)
Ground Duties (Non-Tech): 10 (2 for females)
Naval Academy 10+2 Cadet Entry 30 (9 for female candidates)
Total 400

How to Apply for NDA Exam 2025

The NDA application process is conducted online on the official UPSC website. Follow these steps to apply:

  1. Visit the UPSC Website: Go to www.upsc.gov.in.

  2. Register: Complete the one-time registration process.

  3. Complete the Application Form: Provide personal details, education, and exam center choices.

  4. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature.

  5. Pay the Application Fee: Pay INR 100 (if applicable) via online or offline modes.

  6. Submit and Print: Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.

Preparation Tips for NDA 2025

Securing a position in the NDA requires strategic preparation. Here are some tips:

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern. Allocate sufficient time for Mathematics and GAT preparation.

2. Create a Study Plan

  • Devote at least 6-8 hours daily to preparation.

  • Allocate time for revision and practice.

  • Focus on strengthening your weak areas.

3. Practice Regularly

  • Solve previous years’ question papers.

  • Take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

4. Focus on Physical Fitness

  • Start a fitness routine to meet the physical standards required for the SSB interview.

  • Include running, push-ups, and chin-ups in your daily regimen.

5. Stay Updated on Current Affairs

  • Read newspapers and watch news channels to stay informed about national and international events.

FAQs

1. What is the age limit for the NDA Exam 2025?

Candidates born between July 2, 2005, and July 1, 2008 are eligible.

2. Can females apply for the NDA Exam?

Yes, female candidates are eligible to apply for the NDA exam, provided they meet the prescribed criteria.

3. Is coaching necessary for NDA preparation?

Coaching can help. But, self-study is just as good for passing the NDA exam.

4. Which books are best for NDA preparation?

  • Mathematics: RS Aggarwal, NCERT Books

  • GAT: Pathfinder for NDA & NA

5. What is the application fee for the NDA Exam?

The application fee is INR 100 for male General and OBC candidates. SC/ST and female candidates are exempted.

Conclusion

The NDA Exam 2025 is a golden opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. With proper prep, dedication, and a plan, you can get a spot in this prestigious school. Success in the NDA exam requires academic excellence, fitness, and mental toughness. Start your preparation early, stay consistent, and aim high. Best of luck!

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