NDA 1 2026 Registration & Application Form: Complete Guide for Defence Academy Aspirants
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the much-awaited schedule for the National Defence Academy (NDA) 1 2026 examination. This comprehensive guide provides aspiring defence personnel with all essential information about registration dates, application procedures, eligibility criteria, and preparation strategies to ensure a successful application process.
Ground Zero Defence Academy, recognized as one of Dehradun’s premier NDA coaching institutes, is committed to guiding every NDA aspirant through this crucial application phase while providing comprehensive preparation support for the upcoming examination.
Important Dates for NDA 1 2026 Examination
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | December 10, 2025 |
| Application Form Availability | December 10 to December 30, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | December 30, 2025 |
| Application Correction Window | Early January 2026 (7 days typically) |
| Admit Card Release | Last week of March 2026 |
| Written Examination Date | April 12, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Result Declaration | Expected by April 26, 2026 |
| SSB Interview Period | May-June 2026 |
Comprehensive Eligibility Criteria for NDA 1 2026
Age Limit Requirements
- Minimum Age: 16 years 6 months (16.5 years)
- Maximum Age: 19 years 6 months (19.5 years)
- Age calculation is done as of the first day of the month when the course begins.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have successfully passed the 10+2 examination or its equivalent from a recognized board. Students appearing in their Class 12 examinations can also apply, provided they submit their passing certificate during document verification.
Additional Eligibility Conditions
- Marital Status: Only unmarried candidates are eligible
- Physical Standards: Must meet the prescribed medical and physical standards
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India
Detailed NDA 1 2026 Application Process
Step 1: One-Time Registration (OTR) on UPSC Portal
Before applying for NDA 1 2026, candidates must complete the One-Time Registration process on the official UPSC website (upsc.gov.in). This registration creates a unique login ID and password for all future UPSC examinations.
Required Information for OTR:
- Full name as per Class 10 certificate
- Father’s and Mother’s name
- Date of birth
- Valid email ID and mobile number
- Educational qualifications
- Address details
Step 2: Filling the NDA 1 2026 Application Form
After successful OTR completion, candidates can access the NDA application form through their login credentials. The form requires comprehensive personal, educational, and contact information.
Step 3: Document Upload Requirements
All documents must be uploaded in prescribed formats and sizes:
| Document Type | Format & Size | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Photograph | JPG format, 20-300 KB | Recent passport-size with white background |
| Signature | JPG format, 20-300 KB | Blue/black ink, not in capital letters |
| Photo Identity Proof | PDF format, 20-300 KB | Aadhaar/Voter ID/PAN/Passport/Driving License |
Step 4: Exam Center Selection
Candidates can select their preferred examination centers from the list of available cities. Centers are allotted on a first-come-first-served basis.
Step 5: Application Fee Payment
- General and OBC Candidates: ₹100
- SC/ST, Female Candidates, and Wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs: Fee exempted
- Payment Methods: Online (credit/debit cards, UPI, net banking) or SBI e-challan
NDA 1 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus Overview
Examination Structure
The NDA written examination consists of two papers conducted on the same day:
| Paper | Subject | Duration | Maximum Marks | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Mathematics | 2.5 hours | 300 marks | 120 questions |
| Paper II | General Ability Test (GAT) | 2.5 hours | 600 marks | 150 questions |
Negative Marking Scheme
Mathematics Syllabus Key Topics
- Algebra: Matrices, determinants, quadratic equations
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric identities, heights and distances
- Calculus: Differential and integral calculus
- Coordinate Geometry: 2D and 3D analytical geometry
- Statistics and Probability: Basic concepts and applications
- Vector Algebra: Vector operations and applications.
General Ability Test (GAT) Syllabus
English Section (200 marks):
- Grammar and vocabulary
- Comprehension passages
- Sentence improvement and error spotting
- Synonyms and antonyms
- Ordering of words and sentences
General Knowledge Section (400 marks):
- Physics: Mechanics, heat, light, electricity, magnetism
- Chemistry: Atomic structure, chemical reactions, acids and bases
- General Science: Biology fundamentals
- History: Ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history
- Geography: Physical and economic geography of India
- Current Affairs: National and international events.
Essential Documents Required for NDA Application
Primary Documents
- Class 10 and 12 marksheets and certificates
- Date of birth certificate
- Character certificate from school/college
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Valid photo identity proof
Additional Documents for Specific Categories
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST candidates)
- Income certificate (for OBC candidates)
- Service certificate (for wards of defence personnel)
- Domicile certificate (if applicable).
Post-Application Process and Selection Procedure
Written Examination
Qualified candidates will appear for the written test on April 12, 2026, at their selected examination centers. The exam will be conducted in offline mode with OMR-based answer sheets.
Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview
Candidates clearing the written examination will be called for SSB interviews, which include:
- Stage I: Screening test (OIR and Picture Perception)
- Stage II: Psychological tests, group testing, and personal interviews
Medical Examination
Finally qualified candidates must undergo comprehensive medical examinations to ensure fitness for military service.
Final Merit List
The final selection is based on the combined marks of the written examination and SSB interview, with medical fitness being mandatory.
Ground Zero Defence Academy: Your Success Partner
Ground Zero Defence Academy stands as Dehradun’s most trusted NDA coaching institute, offering comprehensive preparation programs specifically designed for NDA aspirants. Our expert faculty, proven teaching methodologies, and personalized attention have helped hundreds of students achieve their dreams of joining India’s prestigious defence forces.
Why Choose Ground Zero Defence Academy?
- Experienced Faculty: Subject matter experts with military backgrounds
- Comprehensive Study Material: Updated syllabus coverage with current affairs
- Regular Mock Tests: Simulating actual exam conditions
- Personal Mentorship: Individual attention for every student
- Proven Track Record: Consistent high success rates in NDA selections
- Strategic Location: Conveniently located in Dehradun for easy accessibility
Join Ground Zero Defence Academy today and take the first confident step toward your NDA 1 2026 success. Our comprehensive coaching programs, combined with your dedication, will ensure you’re fully prepared to crack the NDA examination and begin your journey toward serving the nation.
For admission inquiries and course details, visit Ground Zero Defence Academy or contact our counseling team to start your preparation journey immediately.