The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam remains one of India’s most prestigious entry points into the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this exam selects candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings. With a rising number of aspirants from Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), knowing the NDA Exam 2025 schedule, syllabus, and preparation strategy has become crucial for students and parents alike.
Why the NDA Exam Matters
The NDA exam is not just another competitive test—it’s a gateway to serving the nation in a leadership role. Candidates selected through NDA are trained at the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune, followed by specialized training at respective academies (IMA, INA, or AFA). After training, they’re commissioned as officers.
NDA Exam 2025 Key Dates (Tentative)
| Event | NDA 1 2025 | NDA 2 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | December 2024 | May 2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | December 2024 | May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 2025 | June 2025 |
| Exam Date | April 2025 | September 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | March 2025 | August 2025 |
| Result Declaration | May 2025 | October 2025 |
Note: Check upsc.gov.in for exact dates and updates.
Eligibility Criteria for NDA 2025
1. Nationality
- Indian citizen or subject of Nepal/Bhutan
- Tibetan refugees settled in India before Jan 1, 1962
2. Age Limit
- 16.5 to 19.5 years (Born between July 2, 2006 and July 1, 2009 for NDA 2 2025)
3. Educational Qualification
- Army Wing: Class 12 pass from any stream
- Navy & Air Force: Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics
4. Gender
- Both male and female candidates are eligible
Exam Pattern
| Paper | Duration | Marks | Subjects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2.5 hrs | 300 | Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry etc. |
| General Ability Test | 2.5 hrs | 600 | English (200) + GK (400) |
- Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd for wrong answers)
- Interview: SSB Interview worth 900 marks
Delhi NCR: NDA Coaching and Support Ecosystem
Aspirants from Delhi NCR benefit from a vast ecosystem of preparation resources, including:
- Top Coaching Institutes: Major Kalshi Classes (Noida), Centurion Defence Academy (Ghaziabad), Baalnoi Academy (Delhi)
- Mock Test Series: Offered by local centers and online platforms
- Physical Fitness Prep: Training facilities in Nehru Park, Noida Stadium, Chhatrasal Stadium
- SSB Interview Coaching: Personalized training available in Patel Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar, and Gurgaon
How to Apply for NDA Exam 2025
- Visit https://upsconline.nic.in
- Register using One-Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill in NDA application form with personal and academic details
- Upload scanned photo, signature, and photo ID proof
- Pay the fee (₹100 for general, free for SC/ST and females)
- Submit and download the confirmation
Preparation Strategy for NDA 2025
Academic Prep
- Start early in Class 11
- Focus on NCERT books, especially for Maths and Science
- Practice previous year question papers
Current Affairs & GK
- Read newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express
- Refer to Manorama Yearbook, Lucent’s GK
SSB Interview Prep
- Personality development, group discussions, psych tests
- Join weekend batches if you’re still in school
Fitness
- Prepare for the rigorous physical and medical exams
- Maintain a routine with running, pushups, sit-ups, and flexibility exercises
What Makes NDA Attractive for Delhi NCR Youth?
- Prestige & Service: Respected career with leadership training
- Job Security: Assured officer post with growth path
- Subsidized Education: No college fees + full-time training
- Lifestyle: Adventure, discipline, and opportunity to travel the country and abroad
Key Takeaway: Aiming for NDA 2025? Start Now
For students in Delhi NCR dreaming of a career in the Indian Armed Forces, the NDA Exam 2025 is a golden opportunity. With competition rising and exam patterns evolving, early and structured preparation is the key. Leverage the academic support, coaching ecosystem, and physical training resources available in the region to maximize your chances.
FAQs: NDA Exam 2025
Q1. What is the age limit for the NDA 2025 exam?
A: Candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years old. For NDA 2 2025, you should be born between July 2, 2006 and July 1, 2009.
Q2. Can female candidates apply for NDA 2025?
A: Yes, since 2021, female candidates are also eligible to apply for the NDA exam.
Q3. What is the exam pattern for NDA 2025?
A: The exam consists of two papers—Mathematics (300 marks) and General Ability Test (600 marks). Both are objective and held on the same day.
Q4. How many times is the NDA exam conducted in a year?
A: The NDA exam is held twice a year—once in April (NDA 1) and again in September (NDA 2).
Q5. Is coaching necessary to crack NDA from Delhi NCR?
A: Coaching is helpful but not mandatory. Delhi NCR has a strong support ecosystem including coaching centers, physical training facilities, and online resources.
Q6. What are the physical standards required for NDA?
A: Candidates must be medically fit with specific eyesight, height, weight, and fitness benchmarks set by the Armed Forces Medical Board.
Q7. How can I apply for NDA 2025?
A: Visit https://upsconline.nic.in, complete OTR (One-Time Registration), fill the NDA form, upload required documents, and pay the application fee.
Q8. What is the SSB Interview process after clearing NDA written exam?
A: The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview spans 5 days and includes psychological tests, group tasks, personal interviews, and physical assessments.