NDA 1 & NDA 2 2026 Dates: Official UPSC Schedule
Latest Update (Dec 18, 2025): As per the UPSC notification released on December 10, 2025 – UPSC has officially released the NDA 1 2026 notification, kicking off registrations for aspiring defence officers. With the full 2026 calendar now available, here’s your go-to guide on key timelines for both NDA 1 and NDA 2 exams. This update is crucial for candidates planning their preparation amid tight schedules—don’t miss out on these confirmed dates to stay ahead.
Quick Exam Snapshot
| Exam Name | Conducting Authority | Exam Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDA & NA Examination | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) | Twice a year (NDA 1 & NDA 2) | Admission to National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) for Army, Navy, and Air Force wings |
NDA 1 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | December 10, 2025 |
| Application Start Date | December 10, 2025 |
| Application Last Date | December 30, 2025 (6:00 PM) |
| Admit Card Release | Expected early April 2026 (tentative, as per UPSC patterns) |
| Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
With NDA 1 2026 just months away, aspirants should immediately verify eligibility and submit applications to avoid last-minute rushes. Use the three-month window post-registration for intensive subject revision—focus on Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT) syllabi while tracking UPSC’s official site for admit card alerts. Early planning ensures time for mock tests and error correction in your strategy.
NDA 2 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 20, 2026 (as per UPSC calendar) |
| Application Start Date | May 20, 2026 (as per UPSC calendar) |
| Application Last Date | June 9, 2026 (as per UPSC calendar) |
| Admit Card Release | Expected early September 2026 (tentative, as per UPSC patterns) |
| Exam Date | September 13, 2026 (as per UPSC calendar) |
NDA 2 offers a vital second shot for candidates who miss NDA 1 or seek to improve scores—treat the four-month gap between exams as a preparation reset. Analyze NDA 1 performance for targeted weak-area drills, and leverage the summer window for physical fitness and SSB interview prep to build momentum toward selection.
Why These Dates Matter
- Deadline Risks: Missing the application cutoff means forfeiting an entire attempt—UPSC doesn’t entertain extensions, so set calendar reminders now.
- Early Bird Edge: Aspirants who map prep to these timelines (e.g., starting GAT mocks by February) consistently score higher, as per past trends.
- Revision Sync: The exam spacing aligns perfectly with UPSC’s syllabus cycles, giving 3-4 months for full revisions and 10+ mock series without burnout.
FAQs
When will NDA 1 2026 notification be released? The NDA 1 2026 notification was released on December 10, 2025, via upsc.gov.in.
What is the NDA 2 2026 exam date? NDA 2 2026 is scheduled for September 13, 2026, as per the official UPSC calendar.
Can candidates appear in both NDA 1 & NDA 2? Yes, eligible candidates can apply for and appear in both NDA 1 and NDA 2 2026, provided they meet age and other criteria.
Where to check official updates? Monitor upsc.gov.in for all notifications, admit cards, and results—subscribe to UPSC alerts for real-time info.
Is the NDA exam date subject to change? Dates are tentative until confirmed in notifications; UPSC may adjust for unforeseen reasons, so verify regularly. Admit card dates and detailed schedules are tentative; exam dates are official as per UPSC calendar unless revised.
Staying aligned with these UPSC timelines is key to a structured NDA journey, helping aspirants balance academics, fitness, and interviews without surprises. At Ground Zero Defence Institute, we emphasize date-driven planning to empower focused preparation for every milestone.
Bookmark this page for quick reference. Updates will be added as UPSC releases official notices—stay tuned for result announcements and more.