Exam overview
- Qualification
- Army wing: 10+2 pass. Air Force and Naval wings, and the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Candidates still appearing in Class 12 can apply.
- Age limit
- Unmarried candidates born within the window in the notice (1 January 2008 to 1 January 2011 for NDA II 2026). Date of birth is taken from the Class 10 certificate.
- Selection process
- Written examination (Mathematics 300 marks, General Ability Test 600 marks), then a 900-mark SSB test and interview for qualified candidates.
At a glance
Conducting body: Union Public Service Commission
Qualification: Army wing: 10+2 pass. Air Force and Naval wings, and the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Candidates still appearing in Class 12 can apply.
Age limit: Unmarried candidates born within the window in the notice (1 January 2008 to 1 January 2011 for NDA II 2026). Date of birth is taken from the Class 10 certificate.
Selection: Written examination (Mathematics 300 marks, General Ability Test 600 marks), then a 900-mark SSB test and interview for qualified candidates.
Stages to expect
Written examination: Mathematics and General Ability Test, 900 marks in total.
SSB test and interview, 900 marks.
Medical examination and merit list as the notice states.
How to prepare
Mathematics and English carry the written marks, so keep your Class 11 and 12 concepts sharp and add general science and current affairs.
For the SSB, practise clear speaking, teamwork and decision-making and do not depend on coaching rumours about the process.
Before you apply
Every cycle publishes its own notice, and it overrides anything summarised here. Save the notice, check its reference and any corrigendum, confirm qualification and age dates, and apply only through the official portal. No one can promise you a selection, so avoid anyone who does.
Official sources
Editorial review: 24 October 2026. This is an evergreen guide, not a recruitment notification. Dates, fees, vacancy numbers and cut-offs change every cycle, so check the current official notice.
