NDA Foundation Coaching in Dehradun 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Syllabus & Admission
Starting your NDA preparation after Class 10th through a foundation course offers a strategic advantage that can transform your defence career aspirations into reality. NDA Foundation Coaching in Dehradun 2026 has emerged as the most sought-after preparation pathway, with Ground Zero Defence Academy leading the way as Dehradun’s premier defence coaching institute with over 25 years of excellence, 20,000+ mentored students, and 7,500+ successful selections.
Why Choose NDA Foundation Coaching in Dehradun 2026?
The NDA Foundation Course in Dehradun represents a holistic approach to defence preparation that combines academic excellence with physical training and personality development. Ground Zero Defence Academy‘s foundation program is specifically designed for students who have completed their 10th standard and wish to build a strong foundation for the National Defence Academy entrance examination while simultaneously completing their 11th and 12th grade education.
Key Advantages of Starting NDA Preparation After 10th
Early Start on Preparation: Beginning your NDA journey after 10th grade provides you with more time to understand important subjects like Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge thoroughly. This extended preparation period allows you to learn concepts slowly and clearly without pressure, building a strong academic foundation that makes clearing the written exam significantly easier.
Better Time Management: Starting early helps you develop excellent time management skills. You learn to balance school studies and NDA coaching without feeling stressed, creating a daily routine that allocates time for studies, physical fitness, and relaxation. This discipline becomes invaluable throughout your defence career.
Confidence Building: With two years of structured preparation, you gain confidence through repeated practice, regular mock tests, and comprehensive subject mastery. The NDA Foundation Course at Ground Zero Defence Academy includes SSB interview training alongside exam academics, boosting your confidence for both the written exam and interview stages.
Higher Success Rate: Students who start NDA preparation after 10th have a significantly higher success rate. With thorough coverage of all subjects and multiple revision cycles, foundation course students often clear the NDA exam on their first attempt, sometimes while still in 11th or 12th class.
Understanding NDA Eligibility Criteria 2026: Official UPSC Guidelines
Educational Qualification Requirements
According to official UPSC notifications, the educational eligibility for NDA 2026 is clearly defined:
For Army Wing of NDA: Candidates must have passed or be appearing in the 12th Class (10+2 pattern) examination from any recognized board or university. Any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts) is acceptable for Army Wing aspirants.
For Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA and Indian Naval Academy: Candidates must have passed or be appearing in 12th Class examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized state or central board.
Important Note: Candidates appearing in 11th class are not eligible for the NDA examination. Students must have either passed 12th or be appearing in their 12th standard examination to apply for NDA.
Official NDA Age Limit 2026
The age eligibility for NDA 2026 is strictly defined by UPSC based on the date of birth of candidates:
NDA 1 2026 Age Limit: Candidates must be born between July 2, 2007, and July 1, 2010. This means the acceptable age range is 16.5 to 19.5 years at the time of examination.
NDA 2 2026 Age Limit: Candidates must be born between January 2, 2008, and July 1, 2011.
Critical Point: There is no age relaxation provided for any category in the NDA examination. Candidates must strictly fall within the specified date of birth range for their respective NDA exam.
Nationality and Gender Requirements
Nationality: The following candidates are eligible to apply:
- Indian nationals
- Subjects of Nepal
- Subjects of Bhutan
- Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962
- Persons of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam) with the intention of permanently settling in India
Gender Eligibility: Both male and female candidates are eligible to apply for NDA 2026. This historic change allows women to join all three wings of the armed forces through NDA, marking a significant milestone in defence recruitment.
Marital Status: Only unmarried candidates are eligible to apply. Candidates must remain unmarried until they complete their entire training at NDA.
NDA 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Official UPSC Structure
Written Examination Format
The NDA 2026 written examination consists of two papers conducted in offline (pen and paper) mode:
Paper I – Mathematics:
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Maximum Marks: 300
- Questions: 120 objective-type questions
- Marks per Question: 2.5 marks
- Negative Marking: 0.83 marks deducted for each incorrect answer
Paper II – General Ability Test (GAT):
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Maximum Marks: 600
- Questions: 150 objective-type questions
- Sections: English (50 questions, 200 marks) + General Knowledge (100 questions, 400 marks)
- Marks per Question: 4 marks
- Negative Marking: 1.33 marks deducted for each incorrect answer
Total Written Exam Marks: 900 marks (Mathematics 300 + GAT 600)
NDA Syllabus Overview
The NDA syllabus is based on Classes 9, 10, 11, and 12 standards. The comprehensive syllabus includes:
- Sets, Venn diagrams, Relations
- Real and Complex Numbers
- Arithmetic, Geometric and Harmonic Progressions
- Quadratic Equations and Linear Inequations
- Matrices and Determinants
- Permutation and Combination
- Binomial Theorem and Logarithms
- Trigonometry (Functions, Identities, Equations)
- Analytical Geometry of Two and Three Dimensions
- Differential Calculus (Limits, Continuity, Differentiation)
- Integral Calculus and Differential Equations
- Vector Algebra
- Statistics and Probability
General Ability Test (GAT) Topics:
- English: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, sentence structure
- Physics: Physical properties of matter, motion, Newton’s laws, work-power-energy, sound, light, electricity, magnetism
- Chemistry: Physical and chemical changes, elements-compounds-mixtures, atomic structure, periodic table, chemical bonding, acids-bases-salts
- General Science: Living and non-living, cells-tissues-organs, growth and reproduction, human body systems
- History: Indian freedom movement, world history, forces shaping modern world
- Geography: Earth’s shape and size, latitudes-longitudes, climate, natural resources, Indian geography
- Current Events: Important national and international events, developments in science and technology
Physical and Medical Standards for NDA 2026
Height and Weight Requirements
- Minimum Height: 157 cm (162.5 cm for Flying Branch of Air Force)
- Height Relaxation: Candidates from Gorkha, North Eastern Hills, Garhwal, and Kumaon regions get relaxation up to 152 cm
- Weight: Must be proportionate to height and age as per official charts
- Minimum Height: 152 cm (163 cm for Flying Branch)
- Height Relaxation: Candidates from specified regions get relaxation up to 148 cm
- Weight: Must be proportionate to height and age as per official standards
Chest Measurements (Male Candidates)
According to NDA physical requirements:
- Minimum Chest (fully expanded): 81 cm
- Minimum Expansion Range: 5 cm after maximum inspiration
- No symptoms of weak constitution or bodily defects
- Well-developed chest is essential
Vision Standards
- Distance Vision (Corrected): Better eye 6/6, Worse eye 6/9
- Myopia Limit: Should not exceed -2.5D
- Hypermetropia Limit: Should not exceed +3.5D
- Color Vision: CP-III (Defective Safe) acceptable
- Uncorrected Vision: 6/6 in both eyes or 6/6 and 6/9
- Corrected Vision: 6/6 in both eyes
- Myopia Limit: Up to -0.75D
- Hypermetropia Limit: Up to +1.5D
- Color Perception: CP-I mandatory
- No color blindness allowed
For Air Force Wing (Flying Branch):
- Uncorrected Vision: 6/6 in both eyes
- Myopia: Generally not allowed beyond -0.5D
- Hypermetropia: Up to +2.0D
- Color Vision: CP-I mandatory
- Spectacle Users: Not eligible for flying branch
- Strictest standards among all three services
- Color blindness (all branches)
- Squint or strabismus
- Night blindness
- Progressive eye diseases
- Certain post-surgery complications
NDA Foundation Course After 10th: Complete Program Details
What is NDA Foundation Course?
The NDA Foundation Course after 10th in Dehradun at Ground Zero Defence Academy is a specialized 2-year integrated program that combines regular schooling (11th and 12th) with comprehensive NDA preparation. This unique approach ensures students build academic excellence while simultaneously preparing for one of India’s most competitive defence examinations.
Curriculum and Academic Structure
Ground Zero Defence Academy’s NDA Foundation Course encompasses:
Academic Curriculum:
- Complete 11th and 12th standard education from recognized board
- Mathematics preparation (NDA-specific topics and board syllabus)
- English language development (grammar, vocabulary, comprehension)
- General Knowledge and Current Affairs (daily newspaper reading, monthly compilations)
- Physics, Chemistry, and General Science (board + NDA syllabus)
NDA Written Exam Preparation:
- Subject-wise coaching by experienced faculty (12-15 years experience)
- Regular classroom sessions covering complete NDA syllabus
- Updated study material based on actual UPSC exam pattern
- Weekly mock tests every Saturday with individual feedback
- Practice with previous year papers to understand exam patterns
- Time management and negative marking command strategies
SSB Interview Preparation:
- Psychological tests training (TAT, WAT, SRT, SDT)
- Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks practice
- Personal interview techniques and mock interviews
- Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) preparation
- Personality development and communication skills
Physical Training:
- Daily morning drill for endurance and fitness
- Running, push-ups, sit-ups, and stamina-building exercises
- Swimming pool facilities on campus
- Sports activities (basketball, badminton on synthetic courts)
- Physical fitness standards preparation for SSB medicals
Personality Development:
- Leadership and teamwork skill development
- Public speaking and communication enhancement
- Officer-like qualities (OLQ) development
- Time management and discipline training
- Guest lectures by veteran defence officers
- Motivational and counseling sessions
Facilities at Ground Zero Defence Academy
Ground Zero Institute provides world-class infrastructure:
- Biggest training ground in Dehradun
- Biggest library with comprehensive defence study material
- On-campus swimming pool
- Synthetic basketball and badminton courts
- Separate hostels for boys and girls with 24/7 CCTV surveillance
- High security campus environment
- Majority faculty from defence background
- Experienced SSB team: Colonel Rana (Psychologist), Colonel Bisht (GTO Officer), Colonel Upreti (Interviewing Officer), Sanjay Thapa (Physical Head)
SSB Interview Process: Complete 5-Day Procedure
Candidates who clear the NDA written examination are called for the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview, which carries 900 marks equal to the written exam.
Day 1: Screening Test
Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test: Verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions to test mental ability.
Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT): Candidates view a blurred image for 30 seconds, write a story within 4 minutes including character details, age, gender, mood, and past-present-future of the story. Groups of approximately 15 candidates then discuss and reach consensus on the story.
Result Declaration: Candidates who clear screening move forward; others are sent back the same day.
Day 2: Psychological Tests
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): Write stories on 12 pictures shown, demonstrating your thought process and personality traits.
Word Association Test (WAT): 60 words are shown; candidates write their immediate thoughts, revealing subconscious personality.
Situation Reaction Test (SRT): Responses to 60 practical life situations, testing decision-making and leadership qualities.
Self-Description Test (SDT): Write opinions about yourself from perspectives of parents, friends, teachers, and your own view.
Day 3 & 4: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks
These days include both indoor and outdoor group activities testing teamwork, leadership, and physical fitness:
- Group Discussion
- Group Planning Exercise
- Progressive Group Task (PGT)
- Half Group Task (HGT)
- Individual Obstacles
- Command Task
- Lecturette (short talk on given topics)
- Final Group Task
Day 5: Personal Interview & Conference
Personal Interview: Conducted by an interviewing officer covering personal life, academics, hobbies, general awareness, current affairs, and situation-based questions. Tests personality, achievements, and clarity of thought.
Conference: All assessors (Psychologist, GTO, Interviewing Officer) discuss the candidate’s overall performance and make final recommendation decision.
Result Announcement: Results are typically announced the same day.
Why Coaching is Essential for NDA Preparation
Expert Guidance and Structured Learning
Coaching institutes like Ground Zero Defence Academy provide expert guidance from experienced faculty well-versed with the NDA exam pattern and syllabus. They offer structured study plans tailored to individual student requirements, making preparation more convenient and effective.
Filling Knowledge Gaps
While self-study is important, coaching plays a vital role in bridging gaps between preparation and success. Only experienced teachers can notice gaps in understanding and suggest necessary measures through explanations, practice papers, and targeted interventions.
Regular Mock Tests and Performance Tracking
Practice tests play a crucial role in NDA preparation. Ground Zero Defence Academy conducts regular mock tests every Saturday to help students familiarize themselves with the exam format and improve speed and accuracy. Individual feedback after each test helps identify strengths and weaknesses.
Disciplined Study Environment
A professional coaching environment provides the discipline necessary for serious NDA preparation. Ground Zero Defence Academy offers a structured routine free from distractions, supporting and motivating students throughout their preparation journey.
Comprehensive Resources Under One Roof
When you join NDA coaching, the institute provides everything needed for success: comprehensive and updated study material, regular practice tests, physical training facilities, SSB preparation, and expert mentorship. This integrated approach ensures thorough preparation without last-minute rush.
Ground Zero Defence Academy: Dehradun’s No.1 NDA Coaching
Legacy of Excellence
Established in 2000, Ground Zero Defence Academy has built an unparalleled reputation over 25 years as India’s premier defence coaching institute. With 20,000+ mentored students and 7,500+ successful selections including numerous All India Ranks, Ground Zero stands as the most trusted name for NDA preparation in Dehradun.
What Makes Ground Zero the Best Choice?
Experienced Faculty: Majority of faculty members come from defence backgrounds, bringing real-world expertise and insights to classroom teaching.
Proven Track Record: Consistent results over 25 years with students clearing NDA in their first attempt, many during 11th or 12th class itself.
Holistic Approach: Focus not just on academics but complete personality development, physical fitness, leadership skills, and SSB readiness.
Updated Study Material: Comprehensive study material based on actual UPSC exam patterns, regularly updated to reflect latest trends.
Individual Attention: Regular counseling, motivational sessions, extra classes for weak students, and personalized mentoring.
Infrastructure Excellence: Biggest training ground, biggest library, on-campus sports facilities, separate hostels, and 24/7 security in Dehradun.
Admission Process and Requirements
Documents Required for NDA Foundation Course
For admission to Ground Zero Defence Academy’s NDA Foundation Course:
- 12 Passport Size Photos
- Aadhar Card (Original + Front and Back copies)
- 10th Marksheet (Original)
- Migration Certificate
- Transfer Certificate
Online Registration Process
Ground Zero Defence Academy has simplified the admission process:
- Visit the official website: groundzerodefenceacademy.com
- Navigate to the Admission tab and click on Registration Page
- Fill the online admission form with accurate details
- Upload required documents (Aadhar front/back, passport photo in png/jpg format)
- Complete payment and take screenshot with visible transaction ID number
- Take a printout of the filled form
- Visit campus with printout and original documents
Registration Fee: Rs. 5,000 (Non-refundable) for NDA Foundation Course
Payment Mode: Cash or Online (card not acceptable)
Contact Information
Head Office: 9 EC Road, opposite S.K. Memorial Hospital, Irrigation Colony, Karanpur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001
Contact Numbers: +91 9412348398, +91 7902099099
Website: groundzerodefenceacademy.com
Operating Hours: 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
NDA 2026 Important Dates
NDA 1 2026 Schedule
According to official UPSC calendar:
- Notification Release: December 10, 2025
- Application Start Date: December 10, 2025
- Application Last Date: December 30, 2025
- Admit Card Release: Last week of March 2026
- Exam Date: April 12, 2026
- Result Declaration: First week of May 2026
- SSB Interviews: May 2026 onwards
NDA 2 2026 Schedule
- Notification Release: May 20, 2026
- Application Start Date: May 20, 2026
- Application Last Date: June 9, 2026
- Admit Card Release: First week of September 2026
- Exam Date: September 13/14, 2026
- Result Declaration: October 2026
- SSB Interviews: October 2026 onwards
Preparation Tips for NDA After 10th
Focus on Core Subjects Early
Start building strong foundations in Mathematics, Science, and English during 9th and 10th standards. These subjects form the basis for NDA exam syllabus and are essential for understanding advanced concepts later.
Develop Physical Fitness from Day One
Engage in regular physical activities, sports, and exercises to build stamina and endurance. Make running, swimming, push-ups, and sit-ups part of your daily routine.
Create a Balanced Study Routine
Develop a study schedule that allocates sufficient time to Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge while balancing school studies. Adjust your routine based on strengths and areas requiring improvement.
Practice Mock Tests Regularly
As you approach 10th standard and throughout your foundation course, regularly attempt NDA mock tests to familiarize yourself with exam format and assess strengths and weaknesses.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Read newspapers daily and maintain notes of important national and international events. Current affairs constitute a significant portion of the General Knowledge section.
Seek Expert Guidance
Talk to teachers, mentors, or seniors who have cleared the NDA exam. Join a reputed NDA Foundation Course in Dehradun like Ground Zero Defence Academy for expert guidance and structured preparation.
Stay Consistent and Focused
Make a commitment to follow through with your study plan and physical fitness regimen. Consistency and discipline are essential for achieving your NDA goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can students after 10th standard directly apply for NDA exam?
No, candidates must have either passed 12th or be appearing in their 12th standard examination to apply for NDA. However, students can join NDA Foundation Course after 10th to prepare while completing their 11th and 12th education.
Q2: Is PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) mandatory for all NDA applicants?
No, PCM is mandatory only for Air Force and Naval Wings. For Army Wing, candidates from any stream (Science, Commerce, Arts) can apply after passing 12th.
Q3: What is the difference between NDA Foundation Course and regular NDA coaching?
NDA Foundation Course is a 2-year integrated program for students after 10th, combining schooling (11th and 12th) with NDA preparation. Regular NDA coaching is typically 6-month or 1-year short-term coaching for Class 12 students or 12th passouts preparing for imminent exams.
Q4: How much time should I dedicate daily for NDA preparation?
In the NDA Foundation Course at Ground Zero Defence Academy, students follow a structured daily routine: school from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, sports from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, NDA classes from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and self-study from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Q5: Is coaching necessary for NDA preparation?
While self-study is important, coaching provides expert guidance, structured learning, regular mock tests, physical training, SSB preparation, and a disciplined environment—significantly increasing your chances of success.
Q6: Can female candidates apply for all wings of NDA?
Yes, since the landmark 2021 decision, both male and female candidates can apply for all three wings (Army, Navy, Air Force) through NDA.
Q7: Is there any age relaxation for NDA candidates?
No, UPSC does not provide any age relaxation for NDA candidates regardless of category. The age limit is strictly enforced.
Q8: What happens after clearing the NDA written exam?
After clearing the written exam, candidates are called for a 5-day SSB interview process that tests intelligence, personality, leadership qualities, and physical fitness. Final selection is based on combined performance in written exam and SSB interview.
Conclusion: Start Your NDA Journey Today
The path to joining India’s prestigious National Defence Academy begins with a single decision—to start your preparation early with the right guidance. NDA Foundation Coaching in Dehradun 2026 at Ground Zero Defence Academy offers you the perfect launchpad for your defence career, combining academic excellence, physical training, personality development, and expert mentorship under one roof.
With over 25 years of proven success, state-of-the-art infrastructure, experienced defence faculty, and a holistic approach to training, Ground Zero Defence Academy stands as Dehradun’s No.1 choice for serious NDA aspirants. The 2-year NDA Foundation Course ensures you build a rock-solid foundation in all subjects while developing the discipline, leadership qualities, and physical fitness required for success in both the NDA written exam and SSB interview.
Don’t wait until 12th standard to begin your preparation. Join the thousands of successful candidates who started their journey after 10th and achieved their dreams of serving the nation. Admissions are now open for the 2025-2026 batch—secure your seat today at Ground Zero Defence Academy and transform your aspirations into achievements.
Take the first step toward a rewarding career in the Indian Armed Forces. Contact Ground Zero Defence Academy now at +91 9412348398 or +91 7902099099, or visit groundzerodefenceacademy.com to begin your NDA Foundation journey.
Serve the Nation. Lead with Honor. Start with Ground Zero.