NDA & NA Exam Pattern 2026 (Official UPSC Notification)

UPSC NDA & NA Exam Pattern 2026 explained in detail. Check written exam structure, subject-wise marks, negative marking, SSB selection process, total marks and official UPSC scheme.

NDA & NA Exam Pattern 2026 – Written Exam, Marks, SSB Process Explained

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination to select candidates for the Army, Navy and Air Force wings. Understanding the NDA & NA 2026 exam pattern is crucial, as the selection process is strictly merit-based and follows a fixed scheme prescribed by UPSC.

The NDA & NA Examination consists of a Written Examination followed by the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview. Candidates must qualify both stages separately to be considered for final merit.

NDA & NA 2026 Selection Stages

• Stage 1: Written Examination conducted by UPSC
• Stage 2: SSB Interview (Intelligence & Personality Test)

NDA Written Examination Pattern 2026

The written examination is objective in nature and consists of two papers conducted on the same day. Both papers are mandatory and qualifying.

Paper 1: Mathematics Exam Pattern

The Mathematics paper tests the candidate’s conceptual clarity and problem-solving skills. Questions are asked from Class 11 and 12 level mathematics.

• Total Questions: 120 (approx.)
• Total Marks: 300
• Each correct answer carries 2.5 marks
• Negative marking of 0.83 marks for each wrong answer

Paper 2: General Ability Test (GAT) Pattern

The General Ability Test evaluates English comprehension, general awareness, science and current affairs.

The General Knowledge section includes Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography and Current Events. Questions are designed to test basic understanding rather than rote memorization.

Negative Marking in NDA Exam 2026

• Wrong answer attracts negative marking
• 1/3rd marks of the question are deducted
• No penalty for unanswered questions

SSB Interview Pattern (900 Marks)

Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for the SSB Interview, which assesses Officer Like Qualities (OLQs).

• Stage I: OIR Test & PPDT
• Stage II: Psychology Tests, GTO Tasks, Personal Interview & Conference

The SSB Interview carries a total of 900 marks. There is no sectional cutoff, but overall performance is evaluated holistically.

Total Marks & Final Merit

Important Points Candidates Must Know

• Both Mathematics and GAT have sectional qualifying standards
• Use of calculator is strictly prohibited
• OMR-based objective exam
• Final merit list prepared separately for men and women

Freqently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the total marks of NDA written exam?

The NDA written examination carries a total of 900 marks.

How many papers are there in NDA exam?

There are two papers in the NDA exam – Mathematics and General Ability Test.

Is there negative marking in NDA exam?

Yes, one-third of the marks assigned to a question are deducted for each wrong answer.

What is the duration of NDA Mathematics paper?

The Mathematics paper is conducted for a duration of 2.5 hours.

How many marks does GAT carry in NDA exam?

The General Ability Test carries a total of 600 marks.

Is English compulsory in NDA exam?

Yes, English is a compulsory section in the General Ability Test paper.

What is the total marks of SSB interview?

The SSB Interview carries a total of 900 marks.

Can I qualify NDA if I fail Mathematics?

No, qualifying both Mathematics and General Ability Test papers is mandatory.

Is NDA exam bilingual?

Mathematics and GAT Part B are bilingual, while the English section is conducted in English only.

How is final NDA merit prepared?

The final NDA merit list is prepared based on the combined marks of the written exam and SSB interview, subject to medical fitness.