How to Apply for NDA 2026: Step-by-Step & Key Deadlines

The National Defence Academy (NDA) stands as the premier joint services training institution of the Indian Armed Forces. Each year, thousands of aspirants compete for the prestigious opportunity to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force through this rigorous selection process. Understanding the application procedure and key timelines is crucial to ensuring that you submit an accurate, complete application on time. This comprehensive guide breaks down every step you need to take to apply for NDA 2026 and highlights vital deadlines to keep you on track for success.

Ground Zero Defence Academy plays a pivotal role in guiding aspirants through this journey by offering expert mentorship, structured mock tests, and personalized feedback tailored to the NDA syllabus.

Understanding NDA Eligibility Criteria

Before diving into the application process, confirm that you meet the basic eligibility requirements:

1. Nationality
Candidates must be either:

• Citizens of India, or
• Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan, or
• Tibetan refugees who arrived in India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanent settlement, or
• Persons of Indian origin who have migrated from countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma, East African nations, etc., with the intention to permanently settle in India.

2. Age Limit
The candidate must be between 16½ and 19½ years of age on the first day of the month in which the course is due to commence. For NDA 1 2026, this translates to:

• Born not earlier than January 2, 2007, and not later than July 1, 2010.

3. Educational Qualification

• Army Wing: Class XII pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a University.
• Air Force and Naval Wings: Class XII pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

4. Marital Status
Only unmarried male candidates are eligible. Widows, divorcees, or married candidates are not eligible.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Registration on UPSC Portal

1. Visit the UPSC online application website: upsconline.nic.in.
2. Click on “Online Application for Various Examinations (Paper I).”
3. Select “NDA & NA Examination (II), 2026” and proceed.
4. Complete the Part I registration by entering your personal details (name, date of birth, email, mobile number).
5. Upon successful Part I submission, you will receive a system-generated registration ID.

Step 2: Payment of Examination Fee

After Part I registration:

1. Log in with your registration ID and date of birth to complete Part II.
2. Choose your preferred payment mode:
   • Online (credit/debit card, net banking)
   • Offline (Pay by cash at SBI branch using challan)
3. Pay the examination fee of ₹100 (SC/ST candidates are exempted).
4. Keep the payment receipt or transaction ID safely for reference.

Step 3: Uploading Documents and Photograph

During Part II:

1. Upload a recent passport-size color photograph (20 KB–50 KB, JPEG format).
2. Upload your signature (10 KB–20 KB, JPEG format).
3. Attach scanned copies of:
   • Class X certificate for DOB proof
   • Class XII marksheet (if available at the time of application)
4. Ensure all uploads meet the specified file size and format requirements.

Step 4: Choosing Academy and Exam Centers

1. Select preferences for:
   • Army Wing of NDA
   • Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA (if eligible)
2. Optionally, opt for the Naval Academy Course (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) separately.
3. Choose up to five cities for written exam centers in order of preference.

Step 5: Final Review and Submission

1. Review all entered details carefully.
2. Confirm declarations and agree to the terms.
3. Submit the application and download the confirmation page.
4. Print multiple copies of the confirmation page for your records.

Key Deadlines for NDA 2026

Tip: Mark these dates on your calendar and set up reminders to avoid missing any critical deadlines.

Preparing for the NDA Exam

Written Examination

• Mathematics (300 marks): Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Statistics, etc.
• General Ability Test (600 marks):
  • Part A: English (200 marks)
  • Part B: General Knowledge (400 marks)

SSB Interview

Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the 5-day SSB interview, which assesses:

• Officer-like qualities
• Psychological aptitude
• Group tasks and personal interviews

Physical Standards

• Height, weight, and medical fitness as per UPSC guidelines
• No major medical disorders or disabilities

Expert Tips to Streamline Your Application

• Begin preparations early to avoid last-minute rush.
• Keep scanned copies of all documents ready in the correct format.
• Regularly check the official UPSC website for updates on dates and notices.
• Practice mock application submissions on the UPSC portal to familiarize yourself with the process.

Ground Zero Defence Academy: Your Partner in Success

Ground Zero Defence Academy is the premier defence academy in Dehradun offering specialized nda defence academy Dehradun programs. Recognized as one of the best NDA coaching in Dehradun, the academy provides:

• Comprehensive classroom sessions covering Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge.
• Regular mock tests that simulate the actual NDA exam environment.
• Personalized mentorship by retired SSB officers and defence experts.
• Strategic revision plans, doubt-clearing sessions, and performance analytics.
• State-of-the-art infrastructure with hostel facilities for outstation aspirants.

Adept at delivering quality training, Ground Zero Defence Academy attracts students seeking the best defence coaching in Dehradun, including CDS coaching in Dehradun and AFCAT coaching in Dehradun. Their holistic approach makes them the best NDA institute in Dehradun, well-equipped to guide students from the NDA foundation coaching in Dehradun stage all the way to SSB success. Whether you’re exploring nda coaching in Dehradun fees, looking for dehradun NDA coaching centre with hostel options, or seeking the top 10 NDA coaching in Dehradun, Ground Zero Defence Academy offers tailored solutions that cater to every aspirant’s needs.

Embark on your journey with Ground Zero Defence Academy, the top NDA academy in Dehradun, and take confident strides toward securing your place at the prestigious National Defence Academy. With expert guidance, rigorous training, and unwavering support, your dream of serving the nation begins here.