Learn the ideal time to start preparing for NDA, CDS, and AFCAT exams. Expert guidance and early-start benefits by The Lakshya Academy.
How Early Should You Start Preparing for Defence Exams?
One of the most common questions among defence aspirants is:
“How early should I start preparing for defence exams like NDA, CDS, and AFCAT?”
The simple answer is—the earlier, the better.
But the right time depends on your age, class, and entry you are targeting.
At The Lakshya Academy, we guide students at every stage of this journey. Let’s break it down clearly.
🎯 Why Starting Early Matters
Defence exams don’t just test knowledge—they test discipline, consistency, and personality.
Starting early helps you:
Build strong academic fundamentals
Develop a disciplined daily routine
Improve communication & confidence
Prepare mentally for SSB challenges
Reduce last-minute pressure
Early starters don’t panic—they perform.
🧑🎓 For NDA Aspirants (After Class 10 / 11 / 12)
✅ Ideal Time: Class 9 or 10
If your aim is NDA, starting preparation in Class 9 or 10 gives you a huge advantage.
You get time to:
Strengthen Maths basics
Improve English & general awareness
Develop physical fitness early
Work on personality & leadership skills
By the time you appear in Class 12, you are already exam-ready.
🎓 For CDS Aspirants (Graduates)
✅ Ideal Time: 2nd or 3rd year of graduation
CDS preparation requires strong written skills and maturity for SSB.
Starting early allows you to:
Balance college + preparation
Master subjects without stress
Prepare for multiple attempts
Build officer-like confidence
Many toppers begin 12–18 months before the exam.
✈️ For AFCAT Aspirants
✅ Ideal Time: Final year of graduation
AFCAT demands conceptual clarity, speed, and confidence.
Early preparation helps you:
Understand exam pattern & syllabus
Improve reasoning and numerical ability
Focus on Air Force–specific awareness
Prepare simultaneously for SSB
Starting early means fewer surprises and more control.
🏃 What About Physical & Personality Preparation?
This is where many aspirants make a mistake.
Physical fitness and personality development cannot be done overnight.
Starting early helps you:
Build stamina and endurance
Improve posture and body language
Develop communication skills
Learn teamwork and leadership
At The Lakshya Academy, we treat physical and personality training as equally important as academics.
🏫 Why Early Guidance Matters
Early preparation without direction can lead to confusion.
That’s why the right academy plays a crucial role.
At The Lakshya Academy, we provide:
Stage-wise preparation plans
Expert faculty for NDA, CDS & AFCAT
SSB-oriented personality development
Mentorship and motivation
A disciplined defence-like environment
We help you prepare smartly, not blindly.
🇮🇳 Final Advice
There is no “perfect time” to start—but starting today is always better than waiting for tomorrow.
Whether you’re in school, college, or just beginning to think about defence services, early preparation gives you confidence, clarity, and an edge.
The Lakshya Academy is here to guide you from the very first step—
from aspiration to selection.
