Important Dates

About the Recruitment

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the NDA & NA Examination (II) 2026 notification for admission into the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA). This recruitment provides an excellent opportunity for young candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers after completing defence training.

UPSC NDA examination is considered one of the most prestigious defence entrance examinations in India. Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for NDA examination to secure admission into defence academies and build a career in the Indian Armed Forces.

Selected candidates will receive professional military training at the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Indian Naval Academy before being commissioned as officers in respective defence services.

Vacancy Details

Academies Included

• National Defence Academy (Army Wing)
• National Defence Academy (Navy Wing)
• National Defence Academy (Air Force Wing)
• Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)

Total Vacancies

• 406 Posts

Expected Vacancy Distribution

Vacancy distribution may vary according to official UPSC updates.

Job Role & Responsibilities

Selected candidates will undergo military and academic training before becoming commissioned officers in Indian Armed Forces.

Major Responsibilities Include:

• National defence and security operations
• Leadership and command responsibilities
• Operational and strategic military duties
• Technical and combat training
• Administrative and defence management tasks
• Participation in national security missions

The role offers leadership opportunities, discipline, honour, and long-term defence career growth.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

For Army Wing

• 12th Pass from recognized board

For Air Force & Naval Wings

• 12th Pass with Physics and Mathematics

Candidates appearing in Class 12 examination are also eligible to apply according to UPSC rules.

Age Limit

Candidates must be born between:

• 02 January 2008 to 01 January 2011

Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.

Application Fee

Payment Mode

• Online Payment
• Net Banking
• Debit Card
• Credit Card
• UPI

Selection Process

Selection for UPSC NDA Recruitment 2026 will be conducted through multiple stages.

Selection Stages

1. Written Examination
2. SSB Interview
3. Medical Examination
4. Final Merit List

Candidates must qualify all stages for final selection.

NDA Exam Pattern

Written Examination Subjects

Total Marks

• 900 Marks

SSB Interview

• 900 Marks

Exam Mode

• Offline (Pen & Paper Mode)

The General Ability Test includes:

• English
• General Knowledge
• Science
• Current Affairs
• History
• Geography

Salary Details

Selected candidates receive stipend during training and salary after commissioning.

Salary Structure

Additional Benefits

• Military Service Pay (MSP)
• Free Medical Facilities
• Uniform Allowance
• Pension Benefits
• Travel Benefits
• Government Accommodation

Defence officers also receive high social respect and excellent promotion opportunities.

Training Details

Selected candidates will undergo training at:

• National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla
• Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala

Training includes:

• Academic education
• Military discipline
• Physical training
• Leadership development
• Technical defence training

Job Location

Training and future postings may occur across defence establishments and military stations throughout India.

Why This Job is Important?

UPSC NDA Recruitment is one of the best opportunities for candidates aspiring to become officers in Indian Armed Forces after 12th.

Main Benefits Include:

• Officer-level defence career
• Prestigious government position
• Leadership opportunities
• Attractive salary and allowances
• National service and honour
• Long-term defence career growth

NDA officers serve the nation while building highly respected professional careers.

Who Should Apply?

This recruitment is suitable for:

• 12th Pass students
• Defence aspirants
• Candidates seeking officer-level careers
• Students interested in Army, Navy, and Air Force careers
• Candidates preparing for defence examinations

Preparation Tips for Candidates

Important Preparation Strategy

• Focus on Mathematics fundamentals
• Improve English and General Knowledge
• Practice previous year NDA papers
• Prepare current affairs regularly
• Improve communication and personality skills for SSB

Physical fitness and leadership qualities are extremely important for NDA selection.

Application Process

Candidates can apply online through UPSC official website by following these steps:

1. Visit UPSC official website
2. Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
3. Fill NDA application form carefully
4. Upload photograph and signature
5. Pay application fee online
6. Submit final application form
7. Download confirmation page for future use

Important Instructions

• Verify eligibility before applying
• Fill educational details carefully
• Use active mobile number and email ID
• Upload proper scanned documents
• Apply before last date to avoid server issues

Required Documents

• 10th Certificate
• 12th Marksheet / Admit Card
• Aadhaar Card / Valid ID Proof
• Passport Size Photograph
• Signature
• Category Certificate (if applicable)

FAQ’s

Q1. How many vacancies are available in UPSC NDA 2026?
406 Posts

Q2. What is qualification required for NDA?
12th Pass

Q3. What is NDA 2026 exam date?
13 September 2026

Q4. What is selection process for NDA?
Written Exam + SSB Interview + Medical

Q5. What is starting salary after commissioning?
₹56,100/month + allowances

Disclaimer

Candidates must verify official notification, eligibility criteria, examination pattern, and recruitment updates from UPSC official website. Final authority rests with Union Public Service Commission.

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