The NDA 1 2026 application form is now available on the official UPSC portal. If you are applying for the first time, the process can feel confusing — especially with the new URN-based system (Universal Registration Number) and strict photo/live-photo requirements.
This guide simplifies everything into clear steps so you can complete the NDA 2026 form without mistakes, rejection, or confusion.
1. Important Dates, Eligibility & Official Website
Before you start the form, check these must-know details:
NDA 1 2026 Application Dates and Deadlines
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Application Start: 10 December 2025
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Last Date: 30 December 2025 (till 6:00 PM)
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Correction Window: URN profile can be updated ONCE, but changes do not apply to already submitted applications.
Official UPSC Website for NDA Online Form 2026
Who Can Apply for NDA 1 2026?
You can apply if:
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You are unmarried male/female
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Born between 01 July 2007 – 01 July 2010
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Have completed/are appearing in Class 12
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Meet the physical standards as per UPSC guidelines
2. Step 1 –Create Your URN for the NDA 1 2026 Application
What Is URN and Why It’s Required for NDA 2026 Registration?
UPSC has merged OTR into a Universal Registration Number (URN) system.
This is mandatory before filling any exam form.
How to create URN
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Visit: upsconline.nic.in
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Click “New Registration / URN”
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Enter:
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Name (as per Class 10 certificate)
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Phone number & email
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Photo ID details (Aadhaar recommended)
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Submit details → Your URN is generated
Why URN matters
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Same URN is used for all UPSC exams
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Must be carried to exam/SSB
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Photo ID chosen here CANNOT be changed for this application
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3. Step 2 – How to Fill the NDA 1 2026 Application Form (CAF)
Once your URN is active, proceed to the CAF, the main part of the application.
3.1 Upload Photo + Capture Live Photo
This is where most candidates make mistakes.
Requirements:
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Both uploaded photo and live-captured photo must match you clearly
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Background should be light
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Resolution must follow UPSC guidelines
If either image is unclear → application can be rejected.
3.2 Fill Personal Details
You must enter:
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Date of birth
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Gender
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Community
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Marital status
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Address
Make sure the details match your certificates.
3.3 Enter Educational Qualification
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Class 12 Appearing / Passed
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Subject stream (Science required for Air Force & Navy preferences)
4. Step 3 – NDA 2026 Application Process: Exam Module Explained
This module decides:
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Your service preferences
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Exam centre
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Fee status
4.1 Fee Payment
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₹100 for General/OBC candidates
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Exempted: SC, ST, Female candidates, and Wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs studying in Sainik/Military schools
NDA 1 2026 Fees and Payment Methods
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Debit/Credit Card
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UPI
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Net Banking
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4.2 Selecting NDA Service Preferences (Army, Navy, Air Force, NA)
Choose in order of preference:
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Army Wing – NDA
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Navy Wing – NDA
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Air Force Wing – NDA
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Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)
Note: You must select at least one.
4.3 Choose Examination Centre
Centres are allotted on a first-apply-first-allot basis.
If you apply late → popular centres fill up → you get whatever is left.
Once submitted → centre CANNOT be changed.
5. Step 4 – Final Review and Submission of NDA 1 2026 Online Form
Details to Check Before Final Submission:
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URN details
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CAF details
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Uploaded photo + live photo
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Service preferences
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Exam centre
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Fee payment status
What Happens After Submitting the NDA 2026 Application Form?
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You receive an Application Number
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Your application CANNOT be withdrawn
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No modifications allowed after the last date
Keep:
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URN
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Application Number
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Payment receipt
6. Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
Most candidates lose their attempt due to avoidable errors. Avoid these:
❌ Blurry or mismatched photograph
Your uploaded photo and live-capture photo must look the same.
❌ Using a wrong or invalid ID
Use Aadhaar unless you don’t have one.
❌ Wrong date of birth
This is the #1 reason for rejections.
❌ Filling form on mobile
Mobile browsers often distort file uploads → use a laptop/PC.
❌ Submitting without reviewing
Once submitted → no corrections allowed.
7. Required Documents for NDA 1 2026 Registration
You DO NOT need to upload certificates — only photos and ID details.
✔ Mandatory Documents for NDA Application 2026
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Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Voter ID/Driving License
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Recent passport-size photograph
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Live photo (captured via webcam/mobile camera)
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Signature (if required)
✔ Recommended Documents for a Smooth Application Process
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NCC Certificate details
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Category/Reservation details
8. Important Tips for Filling the NDA 1 2026 Application Form
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Apply within the first 3 days to get your preferred exam centre
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Use a stable internet connection
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Keep all documents ready before starting
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Read UPSC photo guidelines — they are strict
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Do not refresh the page during live photo capture
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Verify everything twice before final submission
9. NDA 1 2026 Application – Quick Summary Table
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Create URN (One-Time Registration) |
| 2 | Fill CAF (photos + personal details) |
| 3 | Pay fee & select preferences |
| 4 | Choose exam centre |
| 5 | Review & submit |
| 6 | Save URN + Application No. |
10. NDA 2026 Application Form – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Edit My NDA 2026 Application After Submission?
No. Changes are not allowed after final submission.
2. Do I Need Aadhaar for NDA 2026 Online Registration?
No, but strongly recommended for verification.
3. Can I apply for NDA 2026 if I’m in Class 12?
Yes — appearing and passed candidates are both eligible.
4. What If My Live Photo Does Not Match the Uploaded Photo?
Your form may be rejected during verification.
5. Is the fee refundable?
No. UPSC does not provide refunds.