Who Is Eligible for NDA 2026? Complete Eligibility Guide

Candidates aspiring for NDA 2026 must meet stringent nationality, age, educational, marital, and physical standards as prescribed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Understanding each criterion in depth—and preparing accordingly—ensures a smooth application and selection process.

Introduction

The National Defence Academy (NDA) remains the cornerstone of India’s tri-services leadership pipeline. Every year, thousands vie for a coveted seat, but only those who strictly satisfy UPSC’s eligibility norms make it to the merit list. This guide delves into every single eligibility aspect for NDA 2026, backed by official UPSC directives and real data.

Nationality & Domicile Requirements

1. Nationality:
   • A candidate must be one of the following:
     • A citizen of India.
     • A subject of Bhutan or Nepal.
     • A Tibetan refugee (who came over to India before 1 January 1962).
     • A person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam.
2. Domicile:
   • No specific domicile requirement; Indian citizens from any state (including Uttarakhand) are eligible.

Age & Date‐of‐Birth Criteria

• Age Limit: 16½ to 19½ years on the first day of the month in which the course is due to commence.
  • For NDA 1 2026: Born between 2 July 2007 and 1 January 2010 (both dates inclusive).
  • For NDA 2 2026: Born between 2 January 2008 and 1 July 2010 (both inclusive).
• UPSC will specify exact dates in the official notification.

Educational Qualifications

1. Army Wing:
   • 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a University.
2. Air Force & Naval Wings + 10+2 (Executive Branch) of NCC Special Entry:
   • 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
3. Notes:
   • Candidates appearing in the qualifying exam can also apply, provided they produce proof of passing at the time of SSB interview.
   • No relaxation in educational requirements is permitted.

Marital Status & Gender

• Marital Status: Unmarried candidates only.
• Gender: Both male and female candidates are eligible.
• Note on Women Candidates: Following the Supreme Court judgment in December 2024, female cadets are admitted under a pilot program with 10% reservation, to be expanded gradually.

Physical & Medical Standards

General Physique

• Height: Minimum 157 cm (candidates from hilly areas – relaxed to 5 cm).
• Weight: Proportionate to height and age.
• Chest: Unexpanded 77 cm; with expansion 82 cm.

Vision Standards

• Uncorrected: Visual acuity must be 6/6 each eye.
• Corrected: Vision with glasses must not be worse than 6/6 each eye.
• No color blindness or night blindness.

Disqualifications

• Flat foot, knock knees, varicose veins, hernia, piles, chronic sinusitis, hydrocele, and any major surgery.
• Cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and psychiatric disorders.

Attempt Limits

• There is no fixed attempt limit; however, a candidate cannot exceed the upper age limit.
• Eligible till 19½ years of age, whether in first or second NDA exam in a year.

Examination Pattern & Selection Process

Written Exam

• Subjects: Mathematics (300 marks) and General Ability Test (600 marks).
• Duration: 5 hours total.
• Language: English and Hindi (Mathematics only in English).

SSB Interview

• Stage I: Intelligence Test and Picture Perception Test.
• Stage II: Psychology Tests, Group Tests, and Personal Interview (900 marks total).

Final Merit

• Based on combined written and SSB scores.
• Separate merit lists for Army, Air Force, Navy, and Naval NCC.

Important Dates for NDA 2026

• Notification Release (NDA 1 2026): April 2026.
• Exam Date (NDA 1 2026): June/July 2026.
• Notification Release (NDA 2 2026): October 2026.
• Exam Date (NDA 2 2026): November/December 2026.
• Exact dates to be confirmed upon official UPSC notification.

Benefits of Joining NDA

• Prestige: Training at Asia’s largest tri-services academy.
• Career: Guaranteed commission into Army, Navy, or Air Force.
• Education: Fully funded graduation degree (B.Sc or B.A).
• Amenities: Hostels, mess, sports, and recreation facilities on campus.

Preparation Tips & Strategy

1. Understand Syllabus Thoroughly: Refer official UPSC syllabus PDF.
2. Strong Fundamentals: Focus on NCERT books for Class 11–12 Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
3. General Knowledge: Read current affairs monthly compilations.
4. SSB Practice: Join mock SSB interview sessions at reputed institutes.
5. Fitness Regime: Follow structured physical training plans and medical checkups.

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Conclusion

Eligibility for NDA 2026 hinges on meeting every technical criterion laid out by UPSC—from nationality to physical fitness. Understanding every condition well before applying helps aspirants avoid last-minute disqualifications. Pair rigorous self-study with expert guidance at Ground Zero Defence Academy to secure your place among India’s future defence leaders.

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