UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026 has been officially released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). This recruitment drive is for selecting eligible candidates for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) through the NDA & NA Examination (I), 2026. A total of 394 posts will be filled through this prestigious national-level examination.

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The NDA & NA exam is one of the most popular defence entrance examinations in India. It is conducted twice a year to select candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and for the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy. Both male and female candidates can apply if they meet the required eligibility conditions.

The online application process is now active, and interested candidates can submit their forms before 30th December 2025.

UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The Union Public Service Commission has released the official notification inviting applications for 394 vacancies. The selection process includes a written examination followed by an SSB interview for shortlisted candidates. Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible to apply.

Total Vacancies: 394

The breakup of the posts is as follows:

National Defence Academy (NDA): 370 posts
- Army, Navy, and Air Force wings
Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme): 24 posts

These vacancies provide an opportunity for young candidates to join India’s defence forces and serve the nation with pride.

Helpline for Support

Phone: 011-24041001
Email: [email protected]

Candidates can contact these helpline details for any query related to the application process.

Eligibility Criteria for UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026

Candidates must meet the required educational qualifications and age criteria to apply.

Educational Qualification

1. Army Wing of NDA:
Candidates must have passed 12th Class of the 10+2 pattern from a recognized board or university.

2. Air Force & Naval Wings of NDA and 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme:
Candidates must have passed 12th Class with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) under the 10+2 pattern from a recognized State Board, CBSE, ICSE, or equivalent.

3. Appearing Candidates:
Candidates appearing in Class 12 exams are also eligible, provided they meet all conditions at the time of final admission.

Age Limit

Candidates must be born between 2nd July 2007 and 1st July 2010 (both dates inclusive).
Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
Marriage during training is strictly prohibited.

Application Fee

General/OBC/EWS/Other candidates: Rs. 100/-
SC/ST candidates / Sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs: Nil
Female candidates: Nil

Payment Mode

Candidates can pay the fee online using:

Debit Card
Credit Card
UPI
Internet Banking

This flexible payment system allows all applicants to complete the process smoothly.

How to Apply for UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026?

Candidates interested in joining NDA or NA must apply online through the official UPSC application portal. Follow the steps below:

Visit the official UPSC website.
Scroll down and go to the Important Web-Links section.
Click on Online Application Form.
A new webpage will appear.
Enter your personal and educational information correctly.
Upload required documents, including:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Valid ID proof
Pay the application fee according to your category.
Review all details carefully before final submission.
Submit the application and take a printout for future use.

Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute traffic on the website.

Important Dates for UPSC NDA & NA (I) Exam 2026

Start of online application: 10th December 2025
Last date to apply online: 30th December 2025
Admit Card availability: To be announced
Written Examination Date: 12th April 2026

Candidates must keep checking the official UPSC website for admit card updates and other notifications.

UPSC NDA & NA 2026 – Exam Pattern

The NDA & NA exam consists of two papers:

1. Mathematics

Total marks: 300
Duration: 2.5 hours

2. General Ability Test (GAT)

Total marks: 600
Duration: 2.5 hours
Covers English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.

Those who clear the written exam are invited for the SSB Interview, which carries 900 marks and includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.

Why Candidates Choose NDA & NA?

A career with dignity and lifelong pride
Opportunity to serve the nation
Free training, accommodation, and education
Excellent salary and allowances
Job security
Strong future career prospects in defence

This exam opens the door for youth to build a disciplined and respected life in the Indian Armed Forces.

Important Web-Links of UPSC NDA & NA Vacancy

Online Application Link	Click Here
Advertisement Details	Click Here
Official Website	Click Here

These links help candidates directly access the application form and official notification.

FAQs – UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026

Q1: What is the starting date to apply online for UPSC NDA & NA Recruitment?
The online application process starts on 10th December 2025.

Q2: What is the last date to apply online?
The last date to apply is 30th December 2025.

Q3: How many vacancies are available in NDA & NA 2026?
A total of 394 posts are available.

Q4: Can female candidates apply for NDA 2026?
Yes, both male and female candidates can apply.

Q5: What is the exam date for NDA & NA (I) 2026?
The exam will be held on 12th April 2026.

Q6: Is there any fee for female candidates?
No, female candidates do not need to pay any application fee.

Q7: What is the educational qualification for Air Force and Naval Wings?
Candidates must have 12th pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).

Q8: Are Class 12 appearing students eligible?
Yes, appearing students can apply.

Q9: What is the age requirement?
Candidates must be born between 2 July 2007 and 1 July 2010.