NDA 2026: Rapid-Fire FAQ Guide
NDA 2 2026: Born between Jan 2, 2008, and Jan 1, 2011.
Note: Both male and female candidates must be unmarried.
Yes, but only for the Army Wing. For the Air Force and Navy, you must have Physics and Mathematics in Class 12.
No.
Selection is based on Written Exam Marks, SSB Interview Performance, and Medical Fitness.
Class 10 or 12 percentage does NOT affect selection (only passing matters).
No. You just need to pass Class 12. There is no “cut-off percentage” to apply for the exam.
It’s a personality test divided into:
Stage 1: Screening (OIR & PPDT).
Stage 2: Psychology tests, GTO (outdoor tasks), and Personal Interview.
Final Day: The Conference.
As a newly commissioned Lieutenant, your basic pay starts at ₹56,100. With allowances (MSP, DA, HRA), your in-hand salary is usually between ₹90,000 – ₹1,00,000 per month.e Content
There is no limit on the number of attempts, as long as you fall within the 16.5 to 19.5 age bracket.
. You can apply while “appearing” for your 12th boards. However, you must produce proof of passing by the time the course starts at the academy.
No. Unlike some other entries, NDA only requires a Pass in Class 12. Whether you scored 60% or 95%, only your NDA Written Exam and SSB scores determine your merit.
Army: Any stream
Navy: PCM compulsory
Air Force: PCM compulsory
The SSB looks for 15 OLQs, including Effective Intelligence, Social Adaptability, Courage, and Stamina. They aren’t looking for a “genius,” but a “leader.”
The Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) is a one-time test for those opting for the Flying Branch. If you fail it once, you can never apply for a flying role in the Indian Armed Forces again.
The fee is approximately ₹100. However, Female candidates, SC/ST candidates, and sons of certain JCOs/NCOs/ORs are exempted from paying.
The NDA exam is conducted twice a year.
Written Exam Pattern:
Mathematics – 300 marks
General Ability Test (GAT) – 600 marks
Total – 900 marks
After clearing written, candidates go for SSB Interview (900 marks).
Questions are mainly from Class 11 & 12 level:
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
History
Geography
Polity
Current Affairs
English Grammar & Vocabulary
The SSB Interview is a 5-day personality assessment test.
It checks leadership qualities, communication skills, confidence, psychological strength, and Officer Like Qualities (OLQs).
It includes:
Screening Test
Psychological Tests
Group Tasks
Personal Interview
Conference Round
Around 350–400 vacancies per year.
Conducted in two sessions (NDA I & NDA II).
Seats are divided among Army, Navy, and Air Force.
They must reappear for the written exam again.
Written marks are not carried forward.
They may apply for Appeal Medical Board.
Some issues are temporary.
If permanently unfit, they cannot join through NDA.
Sainik Schools prepare students for NDA.
Rashtriya Military Schools are directly run by Ministry of Defence and are more defence-oriented.
NDA 2026 Physical & Medical Standards
Your weight must be proportionate to your height and age. A BMI over 25 often results in a “Temporary Unfit” status.
| Service Branch | Male (Min Height) | Female (Min Height) |
| Army & Navy | 157 cm | 152 cm |
| Air Force (Flying) | 162.5 cm | 162.5 cm |
| Gorkhas/NE Hills | 152 cm | 148 cm |
Army: Spectacles are allowed! (Limit: Myopia -2.5D, Hypermetropia +3.5D).
Air Force: Strictly 6/6 vision without glasses for the Flying Branch.
LASIK: Generally not permitted for NDA entries.
Color Blindness: Candidates with any degree of color blindness (CP-III or worse) are usually rejected for the Navy and Air Force.
Watch out for these conditions, as they are often non-negotiable:
Skeletal Deformities: Knock knees, Flat feet, or a “Carrying Angle” of the elbow exceeding 15° (males) or 18° (females).
Tattoos: Permanent tattoos are only allowed on the inner face of the forearm (elbow to wrist) or the back of the hand. Tribal tattoos are case-by-case.
Chronic Issues: History of seizures, heart murmurs, or major abdominal surgeries.