NDA 2 Exam 2025 Dates, Registration (Ongoing), Eligibility & 406 Vacancies
UPSC has released the official notification for NDA & NA (II) 2025. 406 vacancies are up for grabs across Army, Navy, Air Force and Naval Academy. This is a golden opportunity for young aspirants to get into Indian Armed Forces. NDA is not just an exam – it’s the first step towards a life of discipline, leadership and national service. Moreover UPSC has also announced the NDA 2026 exam calendar, so students can plan their long term preparation. Read on for complete details of NDA 2 Exam 2025 and upcoming NDA 2026 exam cycles.
Important Dates For NDA 2 2025
Knowing the schedule is the first step towards successful preparation. UPSC follows a strict timeline and missing any deadline can cost you your attempt. Here are the key dates you need to mark in your calendar for NDA 2 2025, from registration to result declaration. Start early to avoid last minute hassle.
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release | May 28, 2025 |
| Application Start Date | May 28, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 17, 2025 |
| Application Withdrawal Window | June 24 – July 1, 2025 (Tentative) |
| Admit Card Release | September 2025 (First Week Expected) |
| NDA 2 2025 Exam Date | September 14, 2025 (Sunday) |
| Result Declaration | October 2025 |
| SSB Interview | November 2025 onwards |
NDA 2 2025 Vacancy Details (Total: 406)
Total 406 seats have been announced, divided across Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme). This also includes vacancies for female candidates, so NDA is a true platform for equal opportunity in defence services. Understanding the break up helps candidates to align their preparation with their preferred wing.
| Wing | Vacancies |
| Army | 208 |
| Navy | 42 |
| Air Force | 120 |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry) | 36 |
Note: Around 25 vacancies are reserved for female candidates.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria set by UPSC. From nationality and age limit to educational qualification, each factor plays a role in your application’s acceptance. Remember only eligible candidates will be allowed to appear for the exam and further stages like SSB interview and medical tests.
Nationality
Candidates must be:
- Citizens of India, or
- Subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, or
- Tibetan refugees who came to India before Jan 1, 1962, or
- Indian origin persons migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka and East African countries.
Age Limit
Candidates must be born between 2nd January 2007 and 1st January 2010. They must be unmarried.
Educational Qualification
- Army Wing: Class 12 passed/appearing (any stream).
- Air Force, Navy & Naval Academy: Class 12 passed/appearing with Physics and Mathematics.
How to Apply for NDA 2 2025?
NDA 2 2025 application is completely online. Aspirants need to complete both Part I and Part II registration on UPSC’s official website. Keep scanned copies of your photo, signature and valid ID proof ready before filling the form. Follow each step carefully to avoid form rejection.
- Visit: https://upsconline.nic.in
- Click on “ONLINE APPLICATION FOR VARIOUS EXAMINATIONS OF UPSC.”
- Complete Part I (basic registration).
- Complete Part II (upload documents, pay fee).
- Application Fee: ₹100 (Exempted for SC/ST/Female).
- Download confirmation page and keep a copy for future use.
NDA Exam Pattern
The NDA written exam comprises two papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). Together, they account for 900 marks and are designed to evaluate not just academic knowledge but also logical reasoning, comprehension, and awareness. Knowing the exam pattern inside out will help you manage your time better during the actual test.
| Paper | Subject | Duration | Marks |
| Paper 1 | Mathematics | 2.5 hours | 300 |
| Paper 2 | General Ability Test (GAT) | 2.5 hours | 600 |
- GAT includes English, General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, and Biology.
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd of the marks will be deducted for incorrect answers.
NDA 2026 Exam Dates
UPSC has released NDA 2026 exam dates well in advance. Whether you are in Class 11 or 12, these dates can be your starting point to begin serious preparation. Proper planning is key to peak performance.
NDA 1 2026
- Notification Date: Dec 10, 2025
- Application Dates: Dec 10 – Dec 30, 2025
- Exam Date: April 12, 2026 (Sunday)
NDA 2 2026
- Notification Date: May 20, 2026
- Application Dates: May 20 – June 9, 2026
- Exam Date: September 13, 2026 (Sunday)
These dates are perfect for Class 11th or early 12th-grade students to start preparation.
NDA Preparation Tips for 2025 & 2026 Aspirants
Cracking NDA exam requires knowledge, time management and strategic revision. Start by mastering NCERT textbooks especially for Maths and Science. Regular mock tests, current affairs updates and consistent practice will help you stay ahead. Joining a reliable NDA coaching institute like Invicta Defence Academy can boost your chances.
- Start Early: Ideally start preparation in Class 11 to cover NCERT basics.
- Master NCERTs: Focus on Class 9–12 books for Mathematics, Science and Social Studies.
- Mock Tests: Regular mock testing improves speed and builds confidence.
- Current Affairs: Read newspapers, defence magazines and practice quizzes daily.
- Time Table: Follow a disciplined routine balancing all subjects.
- Join Coaching: Institutions like Invicta Defence Academy offer structured guidance, daily tests and SSB training.
SSB Interview Process (After NDA Written Exam)
Once you clear the written exam the next challenge is SSB Interview—a 5 day process that evaluates your personality, psychology, communication skills and leadership qualities. It’s more than just an interview; it’s a deep psychological assessment to test your officer like qualities (OLQs).
SSB Stages:
- Day 1 – Screening: OIR Test + Picture Perception & Discussion Test.2. Day 2 – Psychology Tests: Thematic Apperception, Word Association, Situation Reaction Test.
- Day 3 & 4 – GTO Tasks: Group Discussion, Group Planning, PGT, HGT, Lecturette.
- Day 5 – Conference: Final panel evaluation.
Candidates will also undergo a medical examination after SSB.
Physical Standards for NDA
Physical fitness is as important as mental preparation. Candidates must meet specific criteria regarding height, weight, vision and general health. Conditions like flat feet, knock knees or color blindness may lead to disqualification. Maintaining an active lifestyle and undergoing periodic medical checkups can help you be ready for the physical test.
- Good physical and mental health is must.
- No permanent body tattoos (except permitted religious exceptions).
- Minimum acceptable height:
- Male (Army): 157 cm
- Female: 152 cm (relaxation for hilly areas)
- Vision: 6/6 or 6/9 in both eyes; no night or color blindness.
- Dental health, chest expansion and BMI are checked.
Why Join NDA? Benefits at a Glance
Joining NDA is not just a career choice—it’s a commitment to serve the nation. It offers world class military training, a secure job, early financial independence and a life of adventure and respect. The academy transforms young cadets into future leaders of Indian Armed Forces with unmatched personality development.
- Zero Tuition Fee: Govt. funded military training and education.
- Leadership Development: NDA grooms cadets for commanding roles.
- Career in Uniform: Start serving in Armed Forces by age 21.
- Financial Security: Earn while training with long term job stability.
- Personality Transformation: NDA instills discipline, responsibility and honor.
How Invicta Defence Academy Can Help You Succeed
Invicta Defence Academy, the leading Defence Coaching Institute in Jaipur offers the most structured and result driven NDA coaching:
- Experienced Faculty for NDA Subjects
- Weekly Mock Tests & Doubt Sessions
- SSB Interview Training by Retd. Officers
- Physical Training Sessions
- Personal Mentorship for Each Student
Whether you are appearing for NDA 2 2025 or planning ahead for NDA 2026, Invicta Defence Academy provides the best foundation and guidance to help you get selected in National Defence Academy.
Conclusion
NDA 2 2025 is a big opportunity to enter Indian Armed Forces. With 406 vacancies and exam scheduled on 14th September 2025, now is the time to focus on your preparation. Whether you are appearing this year or planning for NDA 2026, consistency, hard work and strategic planning are the key to success.
Take this seriously – because wearing the uniform is not just a profession, it’s a pride and lifelong commitment to the nation.