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.
Overview of NDA Exam
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.
2. NDA Written Exam Pattern
The NDA written exam consists of two papers, both of which are objective-type (multiple-choice questions):
NDA Written Exam Pattern
Paper
Subjects
Marks
Duration
I
Mathematics
300
2 hours 30 minutes
II
General Ability Test (GAT)
600
2 hours 30 minutes
NDA Written Exam Pattern
The written exam has two objective-type papers:
Mathematics Paper
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
Marks: 300
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Objective: Tests numerical ability and problem-solving skills
Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Civics, Current Affairs
Marks: 600
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Objective: Tests awareness, communication, and understanding of basic concepts
Key Features of NDA Exam Pattern
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
SSB Interview – 5 Day Process
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.
Mathematics Paper
Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Geometry, Statistics, and Probability.
Total marks: 300
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
General Ability Test (GAT)
The GAT is divided into two sections:
English – 200 marks
Comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and usage
General Knowledge – 400 marks
Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs, and Politics
NDA SSB Interview
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
Key Points to Remember
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
Preparation Tips by Nation Defence Academy
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
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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.
Why Choose Nation Defence Academy?
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.
Expert Faculty
Our trainers are experienced ex-defence personnel and subject experts who understand the NDA exam pattern, SSB process, and entrance requirements of military schools.
They provide personalized guidance to ensure every student reaches their full potential.
Structured Courses
We offer well-organized courses covering the written exam, physical fitness, personality development, and interview preparation. Students receive a step-by-step roadmap to
succeed in both written exams and SSB interviews.
Comprehensive Study Material
Our academy provides detailed study notes, practice papers, mock tests, and previous year question analysis, enabling students to learn effectively and revise efficiently.
Personality & Leadership Development
The SSB interview and defence exams require strong leadership qualities and confidence. We conduct personality grooming sessions, group tasks, and communication workshops to prepare students mentally and socially.
Physical Training & Fitness
Physical fitness is an essential part of NDA and other defence exams. We provide daily PT sessions, obstacle courses, sports training, and fitness assessments to ensure students meet required standards.
Hostel & Mess Facilities
For residential students, we offer safe and comfortable hostels with nutritious meals. The residential program instills discipline, time management, and a routine similar to defence training,
preparing students holistically.
Mock Tests & Performance Analysis
Regular mock tests, topic-wise assessments, and performance tracking help students identify weaknesses and focus on improving critical areas before the exam.
Proven Track Record
Hundreds of students trained at Nation Defence Academy have successfully cleared NDA, Sainik School, RIMC, RMS, and Merchant Navy exams, securing top ranks and fulfilling their career dreams.
Integrated Coaching & Academic Support
Along with defence preparation, we provide school curriculum support, ensuring students excel academically while preparing for NDA or other military exams.
Motivation & Mentorship
Our mentors provide continuous guidance, motivation, and career counselling, helping students stay focused, disciplined, and confident throughout their preparation journey.
