NDA 2026 Notification: Overview and Key Dates
Are you dreaming of a career in the Indian Armed Forces through the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam? The NDA 2026 notification is just around the corner, and keeping track of key dates is essential for your preparation. At The Lakshya Academy, we specialize in defence exam coaching and are committed to guiding you every step of the way. In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of NDA 2026, including expected key dates, eligibility criteria, and a detailed preparation roadmap to help you succeed.
The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year to recruit cadets for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. NDA 2026 (likely NDA 1 and NDA 2) will follow the established pattern. Here’s a tentative timeline based on previous years’ schedules, with updated details for NDA 1 2026:
Notification Release: 10 December 2025 (for NDA 1); expected in June 2026 (for NDA 2). The official notification will be available on the UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) and in leading newspapers.
Application Start Date: 10 December 2025 (for NDA 1); shortly after notification for NDA 2.
Application Deadline: 30 December 2025 (for NDA 1); typically 4-6 weeks later for NDA 2. No late applications are accepted.
Exam Date: 12 April 2026 (for NDA 1); September 2026 (for NDA 2).
Result Declaration: Preliminary results for the written exam in June-July 2026 (NDA 1) and November-December 2026 (NDA 2).
SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates undergo SSB interviews from July-August 2026 (NDA 1) and December 2026-January 2027 (NDA 2).
Final Results: Overall merit list and selections by September-October 2026 (NDA 1) and February-March 2027 (NDA 2).
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for NDA 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria (as per UPSC guidelines):
Age Limit: Only unmarried male/female candidates born between 01 July 2007 and 01 July 2010 (both dates inclusive) are eligible.
Date of Birth Proof: Only the Matriculation/Secondary School Certificate or equivalent will be accepted. No other documents are valid.
Important Notes on DOB: Date of birth once entered cannot be changed at any stage. Any mismatch with certificates may lead to disciplinary action. No changes are allowed in the online application after submission.
Marital Status: Candidates must remain unmarried till completion of training. Marriage before or during training will lead to cancellation/discharge and refund of training cost.
Educational Qualification:
Army Wing (NDA): 12th Class pass (10+2 pattern) or equivalent.
Air Force & Naval Wings (NDA) / Naval Academy: 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics.
Appearing Candidates: 12th appearing candidates can apply but must submit proof of passing by 10 December 2026.
Not Eligible: Candidates appearing in 11th class.
Other Important Points:
- Original certificates are required at SSB (or official provisional certificates from Principals if final certificates are pending).
- Candidates debarred by Ministry of Defence are not eligible.
- Candidates who failed CPSS/PABT earlier are eligible for Air Force Ground Duty branches only.
Physical Standards: Meet height, weight, chest, and vision requirements (e.g., minimum height 157 cm for Army, uncorrected vision 6/6). No major medical issues.
Nationality: Indian citizen or subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee settled in India before 1st January 1962.
Other: No criminal record.
Preparation Roadmap for NDA 2026
Cracking NDA demands a disciplined approach, covering the written exam (Mathematics and General Ability Test) and the SSB interview. At The Lakshya Academy, our expert faculty offers tailored coaching to strengthen your foundation. Here’s a step-by-step roadmap:
Understand the Exam Pattern (Months 1-2)
Written Exam: Objective-type questions (120 for Maths, 150 for English, 100 for General Knowledge, 50 for Physics/Chemistry/Biology/History/Geography). Total marks: 900. Negative marking applies (1/3 mark deduction).
SSB Interview: A 5-day process evaluating intelligence, personality, and leadership.
Begin by analyzing previous years’ papers from the UPSC website.
Build a Strong Foundation (Months 3-6)
Mathematics: Cover algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geometry, and statistics. Use NCERT 11th-12th and R.S. Aggarwal.
General Ability Test (GAT): English (grammar, vocab, comprehension); General Knowledge (history, geography, polity, science, current affairs). Read newspapers like The Hindu and use NCERT books.
Enroll in coaching like The Lakshya Academy for mock tests and doubt sessions.
Intensive Practice and Revision (Months 7-10)
Take weekly full-length mock tests to build speed and accuracy.
Focus on weak areas and revise formulas/facts.
For SSB, practice OIR, PPDT, TAT, group tasks, and physical fitness (e.g., 2.4 km run, push-ups).
Stay updated on current affairs via apps and magazines.
Final Preparation and Application (Months 11-12)
Revise key topics and strategies.
Apply online once the notification is out—ensure documents like ID proof and photos are ready.
Maintain physical fitness and mental preparedness.
Tips for Success
Consistency: Dedicate 4-6 hours daily to study, balancing subjects and physical training.
Resources: Books like Pathfinder NDA/NA by Arihant, Lucent GK, and online platforms like Unacademy.
Health and Fitness: Include running, swimming, and yoga; aim for BMI 18-25.
Join a Community: Connect with peers at The Lakshya Academy for motivation, group studies, and SSB practice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t neglect SSB—many clear the written exam but fail here due to poor communication or fitness.
Why Choose The Lakshya Academy?
At The Lakshya Academy, we provide end-to-end NDA coaching with experienced faculty, customized study materials, and regular assessments. Our proven track record includes numerous successful NDA selections. If you’re serious about joining the Armed Forces, reach out for enrollment and free counseling.
Stay tuned to our blog for more defence exam updates. Best of luck with NDA 2026!
Contact Us
Number: (+91) 7827363838
Website: info@lakshyaacademy.co.in
Address: B-277, Ground Floor near Ramphal Chowk, Opp. IGNOU Center, Sec-7, Dwarka-75, New Delhi
