NDA Exam Notification Out 2025 - Dates, Eligibility & More
NDA 2025 Examination: Comprehensive Guide to Application Process and Key Dates
The National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination is a prestigious entry point for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA exam is held twice a year, designated as NDA I and NDA II. This article provides a detailed overview of the NDA 2025 examination, encompassing the application process, eligibility criteria, important dates, and preparation tips.
NDA 2025 Examination Overview
For the year 2025, the UPSC has announced the following schedules:
- NDA I 2025: The official notification was released on December 11, 2024, with the examination scheduled for April 13, 2025.
- NDA II 2025: The notification is anticipated on May 28, 2025, with the exam slated for September 14, 2025.
Application Process for NDA 2025
The application process for both NDA I and NDA II is conducted online through the official UPSC website. Candidates must adhere to the following steps:
- Registration: Visit the UPSC official website and complete the Part-I registration by providing basic personal details.
- Application Form: In Part-II, fill in educational qualifications, preferences for service, and upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature.
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee, which can be done online via net banking, credit/debit card, or offline through an SBI bank challan.
- Submission: Review the application form carefully before final submission. After submission, take a printout of the application form for future reference.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for the NDA examination:
Nationality: Must be a citizen of India, a subject of Nepal, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated from specified countries with the intention of permanently settling in India.
Age Limit: For NDA I 2025, candidates must be born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009. For NDA II 2025, the birth dates should range between January 2, 2007, and January 1, 2010.
Educational Qualification:
For the Army Wing: Passed or appearing in the 12th standard of the 10+2 pattern of school education.
For the Air Force and Naval Wings: Passed or appearing in the 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
Important Dates for NDA 2025
| Event | NDA I 2025 | NDA II 2025 |
| Notification Release | December 11, 2024 | May 28, 2025 |
| Application Start Date | December 11, 2024 | May 28, 2025 |
| Application End Date | January 1, 2025 | June 17, 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | March 25, 2025 | September 1, 2025 |
| Examination Date | April 13, 2025 | September 14, 2025 |
| Result Declaration | May 2025 | October 2025 |
Application Fee
The application fee for the NDA examination is as follows:
General/OBC Candidates: ₹100
SC/ST/Female Candidates: Exempted from fee
Admit Card
The admit card for the NDA examination is released approximately three weeks before the exam date. Candidates can download it from the UPSC website by entering their registration ID or roll number. It is mandatory to carry the admit card to the examination center along with a valid photo ID.
Examination Pattern
The NDA examination comprises two stages:
- Written Examination:
Mathematics: 300 marks, 2.5 hours duration
General Ability Test (GAT): 600 marks, 2.5 hours duration
Total: 900 marks
- The GAT is further divided into:
Part A: English (200 marks)
Part B: General Knowledge (400 marks), covering Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events.
- SSB Interview: Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which is also for 900 marks. This stage assesses the candidate’s personality, intelligence, and suitability for a career in the armed forces.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly go through the NDA syllabus and focus on fundamental concepts, especially in Mathematics and Science subjects.
- Regular Practice: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: Develop a study schedule that allocates sufficient time to each subject and includes regular revisions.
- Physical Fitness: Engage in regular physical activities to ensure you meet the physical standards required for the armed forces.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current affairs by reading newspapers, magazines, and reputable online sources.
Conclusion
The NDA examination is a gateway to a prestigious career in the Indian Armed Forces. Aspiring candidates should diligently follow the application process, meet the eligibility criteria, and prepare effectively to succeed. For detailed information and updates, refer to the official UPSC notification and website.
FAQs
What is the NDA exam, and who conducts it?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is a national-level entrance test conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
When will the NDA 2025 exam be conducted?
- NDA I 2025: April 13, 2025
- NDA II 2025: September 14, 2025
What is the eligibility criteria for NDA 2025?
Nationality: Indian citizen, subject of Nepal, or PIO from certain countries.
Age Limit:
NDA I 2025: Born between July 2, 2006 – July 1, 2009
NDA II 2025: Born between January 2, 2007 – January 1, 2010
Educational Qualification:
Army Wing: 12th pass in any stream.
Navy & Air Force Wings: 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics.
Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates can apply.
How can I apply for NDA 2025?
Candidates can apply online through the UPSC official website (www.upsc.gov.in) by completing Part-I and Part-II registration, uploading documents, paying the fee, and submitting the application form.
What is the exam pattern for NDA 2025?
The NDA written exam consists of two papers:
- Mathematics – 300 marks (2.5 hours)
- General Ability Test (GAT) – 600 marks (2.5 hours)
- Total Marks: 900
- SSB Interview: Additional 900 marks
What is the NDA application fee?
- General/OBC Candidates: ₹100
- SC/ST/Female Candidates: Exempted (No Fee)
When will the NDA admit card be released?
- NDA I 2025: March 2025
- NDA II 2025: September 2025
What are the physical fitness requirements for NDA?
Candidates must meet certain height, weight, and eyesight standards. Regular physical training, including running, push-ups, and sit-ups, is recommended.
Is there negative marking in NDA?
Yes, 0.83 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer in Mathematics, and 1.33 marks in GAT.
How can I prepare effectively for NDA 2025?
- Understand the exam syllabus and previous year papers.
- Follow a structured study plan with daily targets.
- Take mock tests and practice regularly.
- Improve your general knowledge and current affairs.
- Maintain physical fitness for SSB selection.