The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026. This announcement provides all important details for aspirants, including exam dates, written examination structure, and the complete selection process. Knowing these details early helps candidates plan their preparation more effectively and stay focused on their goal of joining the defence forces.
The NDA exam is one of the most sought-after entry points into the Indian Armed Forces. With the official notification now available, candidates can align their preparation with the confirmed exam schedule and selection stages.
Key Dates and Application Process
The NDA & NA (I) 2026 notification was released on 10 December 2025. The online application process also began on the same day and remained open until 30 December 2025. UPSC clearly specifies eligibility criteria, age limits, and academic requirements in the official notification. Candidates are advised to check the official guidelines carefully before submitting their application to ensure eligibility.
Having a clear timeline helps candidates create a structured preparation plan. Many aspirants choose professional guidance through NDA Coaching in Chandigarh to ensure they cover the syllabus systematically and stay consistent with their study schedule.
Written Examination Structure and Timings
The written examination will be conducted on 12 April 2026 in two sessions on the same day. The morning session will include the Mathematics paper, which tests quantitative skills, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. The afternoon session will consist of the General Ability Test (GAT), which evaluates English proficiency, general knowledge, and basic science understanding.
Both papers are objective-type, and performance in these papers determines which candidates are shortlisted for the next stage of selection. Proper time management and practice are essential to perform well in the written exam. Structured preparation, like programs offered by Nation Defence Academy, helps candidates balance academic learning with NDA-specific exam training.
Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview
Clearing the written exam is only the first step in the NDA selection process. Candidates who qualify are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The SSB interview is designed to assess a candidate’s leadership skills, personality, decision-making ability, and overall suitability for a career in the armed forces.
The SSB process is multi-day and includes several stages, such as:
- Screening tests
- Psychological tests
- Group tasks and outdoor activities
- Personal interviews
Success in the SSB depends not only on intellectual ability but also on confidence, discipline, and officer-like qualities. Aspirants often explore guidance on how to join the NDA after 10th in Chandigarh, which helps them prepare for both written exams and personality development from an early stage.
Medical Examination and Final Merit
Candidates recommended by the SSB are required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the health and physical standards required for training at the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy. This includes checks for vision, hearing, physical fitness, and overall health.
The final merit list is prepared based on the combined scores of the written exam and SSB interview, provided candidates meet all medical and eligibility requirements. Only those candidates who clear every stage successfully are offered admission to the NDA and NA training programs.
Importance of Early and Consistent Preparation
The NDA exam is highly competitive, and success requires consistent preparation over time. Early preparation gives aspirants a strong foundation in academics, physical fitness, and overall personality development. Many candidates choose structured programs from a reliable NDA Academy in Chandigarh to receive proper guidance in all stages of preparation, including written exams, personality development, and physical training.
Integrated programs like NDA Coaching with Schooling in Chandigarh are especially beneficial for students who want to balance their school studies with NDA-specific training. Regular practice, revision, and mock tests are critical elements of an effective preparation plan.
Conclusion
The release of the UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2026 notification provides aspirants with a clear roadmap for preparation. Understanding the exam schedule, written examination structure, SSB process, and medical requirements allows candidates to plan efficiently and stay focused on their goals.
With disciplined preparation, strategic planning, and professional guidance from the Nation Defence Academy, aspirants can confidently work toward joining the National Defence Academy or Naval Academy. Early and consistent effort remains the key to achieving success in this prestigious examination and embarking on a career in the Indian Armed Forces.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. When is the NDA & NA (I) 2026 written exam scheduled?
The NDA & NA (I) 2026 written examination will be conducted on 12 April 2026 as per the official UPSC notification.
Q2. How many papers are there in the NDA written examination?
The NDA written exam consists of two papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test, both conducted on the same day.
Q3. What happens after qualifying the NDA written exam?
Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, followed by a medical examination.
Q4. How is the final selection for NDA made?
Final selection is based on the combined marks of the written examination and the SSB interview, subject to medical fitness and merit ranking.
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NDA Foundation Coaching in Chandigarh with School Preparation – Nation Defence Academy
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