National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam Overview
The NDA examination conducted by UPSC is the gateway to India's prestigious defence forces - Army, Navy, and Air Force. It is one of the few exams that allows candidates to join defence services right after Class 12.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years of age on the first day of the course commencement.
- Educational Qualification: For Army wing - Class 12 pass from a recognized board. For Air Force and Navy wings - Class 12 pass with Physics and Mathematics.
- Gender: Both male and female candidates can apply (women were allowed from 2022 onwards).
- Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen, or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1962.
- Physical Standards: Minimum height 157 cm for Army, good vision, and overall physical fitness as per defence medical standards.
Exam Pattern
NDA written exam has two papers: Mathematics (300 marks, 2.5 hours) and General Ability Test (600 marks, 2.5 hours). GAT is further divided into English (200 marks) and General Knowledge (400 marks). Total marks for written exam: 900.
Mathematics Syllabus
The maths paper covers Algebra, Matrices, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry (2D and 3D), Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, and Statistics. Questions are of Class 11-12 level but require strong problem-solving speed.
General Ability Test Syllabus
English section tests grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and usage. GK covers Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, and Current Affairs. Focus on NCERT books for science subjects and standard reference books for history and geography.
Preparation Tips
Start with NCERT Mathematics for Class 11-12. Practice previous 10 years' papers. For GAT, read Lucent's GK and practice English grammar from Wren and Martin. Physical fitness preparation should run parallel to academic preparation.