Dreaming of serving the nation in uniform? The UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2025 notification is your chance! With 406 vacancies across Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy, this exam opens doors to prestigious training at National Defence Academy (NDA). Whether you’re a science whiz (Physics+Maths for Navy/Air Force) or an Army enthusiast (any 12th stream), this guide breaks down eligibility, key dates, and insider tips to ace the selection. Let’s dive in!
Key Highlights of UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2025 🗓
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | NDA & NA (I) 2025 |
| Total Vacancies | 406 (Army: 208, Navy: 42, Air Force: 120, Naval Academy: 36) |
| Age Limit | Born between 02/07/2006 – 01/07/2009 (Unmarried only) |
| Exam Date | 13 April 2025 (Offline) |
| Application Fee | ₹100 (General/OBC), FREE for SC/ST/Females |
| Selection Stages | Written Test (Maths + GAT) → SSB Interview (900 marks each) |
| Admit Card | Released on 03 April 2025 |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Decoded 🎯
1. Age & Marital Status
- Must be unmarried and born between 2 July 2006 – 1 July 2009 .
- Age relaxation? None, but check official rules for special cases .
2. Educational Qualifications
| Wing | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Army | 12th pass (any stream) |
| Navy/Air Force | 12th with Physics, Chemistry, Maths |
| Naval Academy | 12th with PCM (10+2 Cadet Entry) |
Note: Appearing candidates can apply provisionally but must submit results by 15 Dec 2025 .
3. Physical Standards
- Height, weight, and vision criteria vary by wing. For example:
- Army: Min height 157 cm (Male), 152 cm (Female) .
- Air Force: No history of fractures or asthma .
How to Apply? Step-by-Step Guide 📝
- One-Time Registration (OTR)
- Mandatory on UPSC Portal .
- Fill the Form (11 Dec 2024 – 1 Jan 2025)
- Upload scanned photo, signature, and ID proof .
- Pay the Fee
- Online (Cards/Net Banking) or SBI Cash Challan .
- Correction Window
- Edit details from 1-7 Jan 2025 .
Pro Tip: Double-check preferences (Army/Navy/Air Force) – order matters during SSB calls .
Selection Process: Written Test & SSB Interview 🏆
1. Written Exam (900 Marks)
| Paper | Topics | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry | 300 | 2.5 hours |
| GAT | English, GK, Science, Geography | 600 | 2.5 hours |
Marking Scheme: -0.83 for wrong answers (Maths), -1.33 (GAT) .
2. SSB Interview (900 Marks)
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Test + Picture Perception Test .
- Stage 2: Psychology Tests, Group Tasks, Personal Interview .
Real-Life Example: Cadet Priya cleared SSB by focusing on teamwork during group tasks – a key trait assessors watch for!
Preparation Tips from Toppers & Experts 💡
- Maths Mastery
- Practice NDA previous papers (e.g., 2024’s cut-off was 342/900) .
- Focus on speed + accuracy – 120 questions in 150 minutes!
- GAT Strategy
- Current Affairs: Follow defence news (e.g., new aircraft, policies) .
- English: Read The Hindu editorials for vocabulary .
- SSB Readiness
- Join mock SSB camps – they simulate real interview stress .
- Expert Insight: “Be authentic; faking traits backfires,” says Col. R. Singh (Retd.).
Key Dates to Circle in Your Calendar 📅
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start | 11 Dec 2024 |
| Last Date to Apply | 1 Jan 2025 (6 PM) |
| Exam | 13 April 2025 |
| Admit Card | 3 April 2025 |
Missed the deadline? NDA-II notifications drop in May 2025 .
Why Choose NDA? Perks Beyond the Uniform 🎖️
- World-Class Training: NDA Khadakwasla offers academics + adventure sports .
- Career Growth: Promotions to Lieutenant in 3 years post-IMA.
- Gender Inclusivity: 27 seats for women in 2025 – a historic high .
Fun Fact: NDA’s alumni include Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and astronaut Rakesh Sharma!
Final Checklist Before You Apply ✅
- Documents: 12th marksheet, birth proof, photo ID.
- Preferences: Army > Navy > Air Force? Choose wisely!
- Fitness: Start running + push-ups today – SSB tests endurance.
Ready to embark on this journey? Visit upsc.gov.in now! 🚀
Divya Reddy is a career guidance writer specializing in exam results and admit cards. With a Master’s in Human Resources and 8+ years of experience, Divya loves helping students navigate their academic journeys. She enjoys practicing yoga.
