The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam is one of the most prestigious exams for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. Understanding the NDA exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation and achieving success. Nation Defence Academy provides expert guidance to help aspirants crack this exam on their first attempt.
The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year – NDA I and NDA II. It is a gateway for candidates to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA. The exam tests candidates on their academic knowledge, reasoning skills, and general awareness, followed by an SSB interview for personality and aptitude assessment.
The NDA written exam consists of two papers, both of which are objective-type (multiple-choice questions):
| Paper | Subjects | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Mathematics | 300 | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| II | General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2 hours 30 minutes |
The written exam has two objective-type papers:
| Topic | Weightage / Focus |
|---|---|
| Algebra | Quadratic equations, Progressions |
| Matrices & Determinants | Solving determinants and matrices |
| Trigonometry | Angles, Identities, Heights & Distances |
| Analytical Geometry | 2D & 3D geometry |
| Differential & Integral Calculus | Basic concepts & applications |
| Vector Algebra | Magnitude, Direction, Operations |
| Statistics & Probability | Data interpretation, probability |
| Section | Marks | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| English | 200 | Vocabulary, Grammar, Comprehension, Sentence Completion |
| General Knowledge | 400 | Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Civics, Current Affairs |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
|---|---|
| Negative Marking | 1/3rd mark deduction for incorrect answers |
| Eligibility | Unmarried male candidates aged 16.5–19.5 years |
| SSB Interview | Personality, leadership, and physical fitness evaluation for selected candidates |
| Total Marks (Written + SSB) | 1800 |
| Day / Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Day 1 – Screening Tests | Intelligence tests & psychological tests |
| Day 2 – Group Tasks (GTO) | Physical & team tasks, obstacle courses |
| Day 3 – Individual Tasks | Planning, leadership, and problem-solving tasks |
| Day 4 – Personal Interview | Evaluate motivation, communication, and personality |
| Day 5 – Final Review & Medical | Physical fitness check & overall assessment |
Tip: Confidence, discipline, and regular preparation significantly enhance SSB performance.
Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Geometry, Statistics, and Probability. Total marks: 300 Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
The GAT is divided into two sections:
Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. Duration: 5 days Assessment areas: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, Personal Interview, and Officer-like Qualities (OLQs) Total marks: 900 (written) + SSB marks considered for final selection
No negative marking for Mathematics GAT has negative marking for wrong answers NDA is for male candidates only Age limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years
Understand the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly Practice previous year question papers for better time management Strengthen basics in Mathematics and General Knowledge Enroll in NDA Foundation or crash courses for guided preparation SSB training and personality development are equally important
The NDA exam consists of Mathematics (300 marks) and General Ability Test (600 marks) in the written stage, followed by the SSB interview (900 marks). Total marks = 1800.
UPSC does not officially declare cut-offs. Candidates must aim for high scores in Mathematics and GAT to qualify for the SSB interview.
The written exam duration is 5 hours – 2 hours 30 minutes for Mathematics and 2 hours 30 minutes for GAT.
The Mathematics syllabus includes algebra, calculus, trigonometry, vector algebra, statistics, and probability. GAT includes English, physics, chemistry, general science, history, geography, civics, and current affairs.
The SSB interview is a 5-day evaluation testing personality, leadership, physical fitness, and psychological traits through group tasks, individual tasks, and personal interviews.
NDA provides expert faculty, structured courses, study material, mock tests, personality grooming, physical training, and hostel facilities, ensuring students are fully prepared for both written exams and SSB interviews.
Choosing the right academy is crucial for success in the NDA, Sainik School, RIMC, RMS, and Merchant Navy exams. Nation Defence Academy (NDA) stands out because it provides complete guidance, expert faculty, and a disciplined environment to help students achieve their defence career goals.
The NDA exam pattern is designed to test both academic knowledge and personality traits. With proper understanding, consistent practice, and expert guidance from Nation Defence Academy,
candidates can maximize their chances of success and secure a career in the Indian Armed Forces.
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