NDA 1 2026: Notification Date, Application, Exam Pattern & Syllabus – Your Complete Guide
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Hey there, future defenders of the nation! If you’re reading this, you’re probably gearing up for the NDA 1 2026 exam. Well, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into everything you need to know—from the notification date to the syllabus, and how to apply. Consider this your one-stop guide to acing the NDA 1 2026.
Introduction: Your Gateway to NDA 1 2026 Success
Dreaming of a career in defence? The National Defence Academy (NDA) is your path. Get ready for NDA 1 2026. This guide covers everything you need—from notification to syllabus, we’ve got you.
NDA 1 2026 Notification: Key Dates and What to Expect
Official Notification Release
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) releases the notification for NDA 1 2026. Typically, this happens in December. For example, last year’s notification came out on December 20th.
Important Dates
Event | Date |
Notification Release | December 2025 |
Online Application Start | December 2025 |
Online Application End | January 2026 |
Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
Result Declaration | May 2026 (tentative) |
Note: These dates are based on previous years and are subject to change. Always refer to the official UPSC website for the most accurate information.
Eligibility Criteria
Before you apply, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- Age Limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years
- Educational Qualification:
- Army: 12th pass
- Air Force/Navy: 12th pass with Physics & Maths
- Marital Status: Unmarried male candidates
Expert Insight: “Meeting the eligibility is the first hurdle. Don’t miss it.” – Defence Career Coach
NDA 1 2026 Application Process: Step-by-Step
NDA 1 2026 Application Process: Step-by-Step
Online Application Form Submission
Apply only online via the UPSC portal. Registration opens soon after notification. Keep your documents ready.
Actionable Takeaway: Save your application number securely.
Document Upload and Fee Payment
- Documents: Scanned photograph and signature
- Application Fee: Rs. 100
- Fee exemption for SC/ST/Female candidates
NDA 1 2026 Exam Pattern: Cracking the Code
Written Examination Structure
- Two papers:
- Mathematics: 300 marks, 2.5 hours
- General Ability Test (GAT): 600 marks, 2.5 hours
- Negative Marking: Yes
General Ability Test Breakdown
- Part A: English (200 marks)
- Part B: General Knowledge (400 marks)
- Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs
Data Point: English is crucial for overall scoring.
NDA 1 2026 Syllabus: Mastering Each Subject
Mathematics Syllabus Focus
- Algebra, Trigonometry, Differential Calculus
- Integral Calculus and Differential Equations
- Vectors and their properties
Tip: Practice theorem proofs. They carry weight.
General Ability Test Syllabus Details
- English: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension
- General Knowledge:
- Physics: Mechanics, Heat, Optics
- Chemistry: Atomic Structure, Physical Chemistry
- General Science: Biology basics
- History & Geography: Indian focus
- Current Events: National and international importance
SSB Interview and Final Merit List
Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview
- Two-stage selection process:
- Stage I: Screening Test
- Stage II: Psychological tests, group tests, interview
Real-world Example: Success in SSB depends on personality, not just academics.
Final Merit List Preparation
- Based on written exam and SSB interview marks
- Medical fitness is also a requirement
Actionable Takeaway: Prepare for SSB simultaneously with your written studies.
NDA 1 2026 Admit Card: Download and Instructions
Once you’ve submitted the UPSC NDA 1 2026 application form, the next important step is downloading your NDA 1 2026 admit card. The admit card will be released around 3 weeks before the exam date on the official UPSC website.
Steps to Download NDA 1 2026 Admit Card:
- Visit upsc.gov.in
- Click on the “Admit Card” section
- Select NDA 1 2026 and log in with your registration number/roll number
- Download and print your admit card
Note: Carry the printed NDA 1 2026 admit card, along with a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.), to the exam hall. Without the admit card, entry is not allowed.
NDA 1 2026 Cutoff Marks and Selection Process
After the exam, candidates eagerly wait for the NDA 1 2026 result date and the official NDA 1 2026 cutoff marks. The cutoff is the minimum score required to qualify for the SSB interview.
Expected NDA 1 2026 Cutoff Marks
Year | Written Exam Cutoff | Final Cutoff (Written + SSB) |
NDA 1 2023 | 301 | 664 |
NDA 2 2023 | 298 | 656 |
NDA 1 2024 | 315 (expected) | 672 (expected) |
Based on trends, the NDA 1 2026 cutoff for the written exam is expected to be around 310–320 marks.
Selection Process for NDA 1 2026:
- Written Exam (900 marks)
- SSB Interview (900 marks)
- Medical Fitness Test
- Final Merit List based on written + SSB + fitness
Tip: Always aim for higher than cutoff marks to ensure a safe spot in the merit list.
Conclusion
The journey to crack NDA 1 2026 is a life-changing step for every aspirant who dreams of serving the nation with pride and honor. The NDA exam pattern, syllabus, and eligibility criteria may look challenging at first, but with the right preparation strategy, consistency, and guidance, success is very much achievable. Always keep in mind that NDA is not just about academic excellence; it also tests your discipline, confidence, leadership qualities, and determination. Preparing early, practicing through mock tests and previous year papers, and staying updated with current affairs can make all the difference.
For the best guidance and structured preparation, Noval Doon Defence Academy is recognized as the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun, also specializing in NDA Foundation, CDS Coaching, Airforce Coaching, and SSB Coaching. With expert faculty and proven results, your NDA dream is closer than ever!
Note: The information provided is based on previous years’ data and is subject to change. Always refer to the official UPSC website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
FAQs
The NDA 1 2026 exam date is April 12, 2026. The exam will be conducted by UPSC across India. Candidates preparing for NDA 1 2026 should mark this date and start their preparation accordingly.
The UPSC NDA 1 2026 application form will be available online at upsc.gov.in after the NDA 1 2026 notification is released in December 2025. Candidates must complete registration, upload documents, and pay the fee to apply successfully.
The NDA 1 2026 syllabus includes:
- Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Vectors
- English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension
- General Knowledge: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, Current Affairs
A clear understanding of the NDA 1 2026 exam syllabus is essential for effective preparation.
The NDA 1 2026 eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Age limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years
- Educational qualification: 12th pass for Army; 12th pass with Physics & Maths for Air Force/Navy
- Marital status: Only unmarried male candidates can apply
Candidates must ensure they fulfill all NDA 1 2026 eligibility criteria before filling out the application form.
The NDA 1 2026 exam pattern consists of two written papers:
- Mathematics: 300 marks
- General Ability Test (GAT): 600 marks (English + General Knowledge)
There will also be negative marking. Knowing the NDA 1 2026 exam pattern helps candidates plan their time management effectively.
To prepare for the NDA 1 2026 exam, candidates should:
- Follow the complete NDA 1 2026 syllabus
- Solve NDA previous year papers
- Attempt mock tests regularly
Use standard NDA 1 2026 study material and join coaching if needed
Consistent practice and revision are key to cracking NDA 1 2026
The NDA 1 2026 result date is expected in May 2026. Results will be available on the official UPSC website. Candidates must also clear the SSB interview and medical test to feature in the final NDA 1 2026 selection process.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’re serious about joining the Armed Forces, start today. Download sample papers, watch SSB prep videos, Share this blog with friends preparing for NDA – and let’s build a community of future officers!
All the best for your SSB journey – Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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