If you’re a young, ambitious student dreaming of donning the uniform and serving the nation with pride, the National Defence Academy (NDA) is calling! The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for NDA & NA (II) 2025, and it’s your golden opportunity to join the ranks of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as an officer trainee.
In this blog post, we’ll cover all the important details — from eligibility and exam pattern to how to apply and tips to prepare — everything a serious aspirant needs to know!
📝 About NDA
The NDA is the joint services training institution for the Indian Armed Forces, located in Khadakwasla, Pune. It offers rigorous academic, physical, and leadership training to prepare cadets for permanent commissions into the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Candidates who clear the NDA entrance exam and complete training at NDA go on to the respective academies:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA) for Army
- Indian Naval Academy (INA) for Navy
- Air Force Academy (AFA) for Air Force
📢 Latest NDA Recruitment Announcement – NDA & NA (II) 2025
🔹 Conducting Body:
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
🔹 Notification Released:
[Insert Notification Date]
🔹 Exam Name:
NDA & NA (II) Examination 2025
🔹 Total Vacancies:
Approx. 400+ posts, distributed among Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.
👥 Eligibility Criteria
Before you apply, make sure you meet the following requirements:
1. Nationality
- Must be an Indian citizen, or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962.
2. Gender
- Both male and female candidates are eligible to apply.
3. Marital Status
- Must be unmarried.
4. Age Limit
- Candidates must be born between 2nd January 2007 and 1st January 2010 (both dates inclusive).
5. Educational Qualifications
| Wing | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Army Wing | 10+2 / Class 12 pass from a recognized board |
| Navy/Air Force | 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as main subjects |
| Naval Academy | Same as above |
💡 Note: Candidates currently appearing for 12th exams can also apply.
📆 Important Dates
| Event | Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | June 2025 |
| Application Start Date | June 2025 |
| Application Last Date | July 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | August 2025 |
| NDA (II) 2025 Exam Date | September 2025 |
| Result Announcement | October/November 2025 |
Stay updated on the UPSC Official Website for confirmed dates.
📝 How to Apply for NDA Exam
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit UPSC Online Portal:
Go to https://upsconline.nic.in - Click on NDA (II) 2025 Application Link
- Registration Part I:
- Fill in basic details: Name, DOB, Email, Mobile, etc.
- Choose your preferred exam center
- Registration Part II:
- Upload scanned copies of photo and signature
- Pay application fee (₹100 for general/OBC; Free for SC/ST/females)
- Agree to declaration and submit the form
- Download Confirmation Page and keep it safe for reference.
📋 Exam Pattern
The NDA selection process includes:
1️⃣ Written Examination
| Subject | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2.5 hrs | 300 |
| General Ability Test (GAT) | 2.5 hrs | 600 |
| Total | 900 |
- GAT includes: English, General Knowledge (Physics, Chemistry, Current Affairs, History, Geography, etc.)
- Negative marking: Yes (1/3rd mark deduction for wrong answers)
2️⃣ SSB Interview (Services Selection Board)
- Total Marks: 900
- Duration: 5 Days
- Includes psychological tests, group tasks, personal interview, and conference
3️⃣ Medical Examination
- Candidates who clear the SSB are subjected to a thorough medical fitness check.
📌 Documents Required During Application
- Scanned passport-size photo and signature
- Aadhar card or valid ID proof
- Class 10th and 12th certificates (for verification later)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile certificate (if required)
🧑🏫 Tips to Prepare for NDA Exam
- Understand the Syllabus: Focus on subjects like Maths, English, and General Science. Create a realistic study plan and stick to it.
- Solve Previous Year Papers: Practicing real NDA papers improves speed, accuracy, and understanding of question trends.
- Mock Tests Are a Must: Take full-length mocks under timed conditions to build confidence.
- Stay Physically Fit: Start working on your fitness for SSB — daily running, push-ups, and agility exercises help.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers, defense blogs, and online portals to keep yourself informed.
📣 Final Thoughts
Joining the National Defence Academy is more than a job — it’s a calling to serve the nation with honor, discipline, and courage. If you dream of becoming an officer in the Indian Armed Forces, NDA is your gateway.
Start preparing today. With dedication and strategy, you can earn your place among India’s bravest. 🇮🇳
🔗 Useful Links:
Are you planning to apply for NDA 2025? Need a 3-month or 6-month study plan? Let me know in the comments — I’d be happy to help!