NDA 1 2026: Notification Date, Eligibility, Application & Syllabus

National Defence Academy (NDA) isn’t just another exam; it’s a gateway to fulfill your dream of serving the nation. Every year, many aspirants work hard to pass through this competitive battleground. However, mere hard work is not sufficient. 

You need a strategy, complete details of the exam, and expert guidance to crack NDA 2026. In this blog, you’ll walk through every detail from the NDA 1 2026 notification to the final selection process. Find out complete information and personalized mentorship at Trishul Defence Academy that helps you stay ahead in your journey.  

NDA 1 2026 Notification Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) releases timelines for NDA 1 2026. Here are important dates and expected timelines:   

• The NDA 1 2026 notification date is 10 December 2025. 

• The online application starts from 10 December 2025.

• The application will close on 30 December 2025. 

• The application correction & withdrawal window is expected to open in the 2nd week of January 2026. 

• The admit card is expected to be released in the 4th week of March 2026. 

• The NDA 1 2026 exam date is 12 April 2026.

• The results are expected to be declared in 1st week of May 2026.

• Selected aspirants can appear in the SSB Interview in May-July 2026. 

These dates may change; you should always refer to the official UPSC notification for exact defence exam dates. 

Who Can Apply? NDA 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The UPSC conducts the NDA exam twice a year. Before applying, verify the eligibility conditions, NDA 1 2026 age criteria, and ensure you meet all the specified requirements. 

1. The NDA 1 2026 Age Limit

• You must be 16.5–19.5 years old.  

• The NDA 1 2026 age limit date of birth is between July 2, 2007, and July 1, 2010.

2. Education Qualification

• For Army Recruitment: You must have completed 12th from any recognized institute. 

• For Air Force & Navy Recruitment: You must have completed 12th with Physics and Mathematics from any recognized institute. 

3. Marital Status and Gender

• Both males and females can appear in the NDA 2026.

• Only unmarried candidates can sit in the exam. 

4. Nationality

• You must be an Indian citizen to serve in the Indian Army Force. 

Now you know the NDA 1 2026 age eligibility, qualification, and other criteria to qualify for the eligibility test. Further, let’s read about the application process, pattern, and syllabus of the exam.  

Step-by-Step NDA 1 2026 Application Process

Here is a simple step-by-step process to apply for the exam:

• Keep your documents ready because the NDA 1 2026 registration date starts right after the notifications are out. 
• Take your first step and register yourself on the official UPSC portal.  
• Log in to your account & select ‘NDA Exam’ to fill in your personal & educational details.
• You will need a scanned photograph and signature to submit. 
• Choose your preferred exam centre and wing (Army, Navy, or Air Force).
• Pay Rs 100 for the application fee. (SC/ST/Female candidates get an exemption)

Your application process will be completed. You can take a printout of your submitted record. 

Guidelines for NDA 1 2026 Admit Card

The admit card is released on the official UPSC website around 2 weeks before the final NDA 1 2026 exam date. You have to carry your admit card with a valid government photo ID to the exam hall. Remember, you’ll not be allowed in the exam hall without the admit card and ID proof. 

Here is a breakdown to download your admit card from the portal: 

• Visit the official site: upsc.gov.in 
• Click on the ‘Admit Card’ and select ‘NDA 1 2026’.
• Log in with your given registration or roll number.
• Your admit card will appear, and you can click on ‘Download’. 

Understanding the NDA 1 2026 Exam Pattern

Let’s understand the pattern for the written exam. Knowing the structure will help you to strategize your preparations better. 

1. Two Papers:

• Mathematics: 300 marks, 2.5 hours to attempt 120 questions.
  
• General Ability Test (GAT):  600 marks, 2.5 hours to attempt 150 questions.

Note: 1/3rd mark gets deducted for each wrong answer. 

2. GAT Paper Details:

• Part A: English Subject 
• Part B: General Knowledge. Subjects Included: Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.

Complete NDA 1 2026 Syllabus

1. For Mathematics:

• Practice Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus (differential/integral), Vectors, Matrices, Geometry, Probability & Statistics, etc., thoroughly understand the concepts for each topic. 

2. For GAT: 

• English: Grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
  
• Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology basics.
  
• History & Geography: Indian-focused topics.
  
• Current Affairs: National & International news.
  

Further, you move to the selection process once you pass the written exam.  

Explained NDA 1 2026 Selection Process, Result & Cut Off

After the written exam, you are supposed to crack the SSB Interview, medical examination, and final merit list.

1. SSB Interview

• Phase 1: Screening Test. It’s basically an intelligence and picture perception test.
• Phase 2: This stage will cover psychology tests, group tests, and the main personal interview. 

2. Medical Examination:

• You’ll have to pass the medical and physical tests to qualify for the training at the NDA. 

Note: There are no separate physical tests for female candidates in the NDA selection process. 

3. Final Cut-Off:

• Written exam cut-off may fall around 310–320 marks for NDA 2026.

Tip: Always aim higher than the expected cut-off to stay competitive.  

4. Final Merit List:

• The final merit list is prepared based on your written exam and SSB Interview marks. 
• Your overall medical fitness is also an important condition for NDA 1 2026 eligibility. 
• After selection in the final merit list, you’re allocated to your preferred wing. 

At Trishul Defence Academy, you can attend a mock SSB Interview. Including screening, psychology classes, a personal interview, and an outdoor GTO task. 

Before you start preparing, check out the simple NDA 2026 exam process. 

Step-by-Step NDA 1 2026 Exam Process

Application starts after UPSC releases NDA 1 2026 notification: 

Step 1: Register and apply for the NDA exam online through the official UPSC portal.

Step 2: Appear for the written exam at your allotted centre. The exam will be an objective type for two subjects (Mathematics & English).  

Step 3: UPSC declares the results of qualified candidates on its portal. 

Step 4: Once qualified, you’ll receive a call for the 5-day SSB Interview. 

Step 5: Appear in the interview that includes screening, psychological tests, group tests, and a personal interview. 

Step 6: Once you crack the SSB interview, you’ll be sent for a medical examination at a military hospital.  

Step 7: UPSC declares the final merit list based on your written exam marks, SSB marks, and medical fitness. 

Step 8: After selection, you can finally join the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Pune, Maharashtra, for 3 years of training. 

Uncover Effective Preparation Tips for NDA 1 2026

1. Prepare Timetable: The very first step is to prepare a subject-wise timetable. Distribute all the subjects to different time slots. 
2. Solve Previous Year Papers: Collect previous year exam papers, analyze the pattern, and solve them to strengthen your preparation. 
3. Prepare Study Notes: Make sure to jot down all the important formulas, topics, and important news to revise before the exam. 
4. Follow Current News & Trends: Make a habit of reading newspapers daily and follow monthly current affairs to stay updated. 
5. Exercise to Stay Fit: It’s important to qualify for the medical and physical tests to crack the final merit list. Exercise for at least 3-4 days a week to maintain your physical health.  
6. Apply for Mock Test: Mock tests are the best way to experience real-life exam pressure and environment. You can appear in a mock test to check your area of improvement, time management skills, and understand the exam pattern and level of difficulty better.   

You can download the Trishul Learning App to access detailed courses and interact with expert officers at your convenience. Download the app now to power up your preparation! 

Conclusion

Track the NDA 1 2026 notification to prepare more effectively for the exam. This exam is your golden chance to fulfill your dream of serving the nation. With the right guidance and strategic planning, you can qualify for this competitive exam. 

Start your preparation as soon as the NDA 1 2026 application form date is announced. The exam pattern, fitness test, and interview may seem stressful. But you can ace the exam with consistency, discipline, and a strong mindset. 

Remember, NDA is not just about academics. But it tests your confidence, leadership skills, and willingness to serve the Indian Armed Forces. Start your preparations early, attend mock tests, and maintain your physical and medical fitness.

Trishul Defence Academy has brought both offline classroom sessions and online programs. We offer top-notch, comprehensive courses similar to the UPSC NDA exam pattern. You get high-quality videos, expert mentorship, SSB Interview coaching, physical training, and NDA mock tests to take you a step closer to your dream.     

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is NDA 1 2026?

The NDA 1 2026 will be conducted by UPSC on April 12, 2026, on Sunday.  

2. When can I apply for NDA 2026?

The expected timeline is 10 December- 30 December 2025. Check the official UPSC website for more accurate information.  

3. What is the NDA syllabus transformation 2026?

There is no specific change in the NDA syllabus. The written exam papers will remain the same. But there might be a change in the marks’ weightage, difficulty level, or question style.   

4. When will NDA 1 2026 application form be out?

The NDA 2026 application will be available from 10 December 2025. 

5. Is NDA syllabus same every year?

Yes, the syllabus for the written exam remains the same every year. But UPSC may change the question pattern, introduce new analytics questions, or change the difficulty level. Start your preparation early and fill the application form once the NDA 1 2026 notification is out.  

6. How does Trishul Defence Academy prepare students after the NDA 1 exam?

Trishul Defence Academy ensures to provide support throughout your journey. We offer SSB Interview coaching, provide remedial programs based on written test performance, build physical fitness, and ensure honest feedback and mentorship till your final selection. 

7. Why choose Trishul Defence Academy for NDA 1 2026 preparation?

Trishul Defence Academy is known as the best NDA coaching in India. Here is why you should choose us: 

1. You receive mentorship from experienced officers.
2. Comprehensive courses, SSB Interview preparation, conducts mock tests, helps in stamina building, and prepares you for NDA training.
3. Complete support from the written exam to the final selection. 
4. You can access digital resources for NDA preparation. Such as Trishul Learning App and high-quality video lessons.