Yes and No.
- For Army Wing: Maths in 10+2 is not mandatory.
- For Air Force & Navy Wings: Mathematics and Physics are compulsory in 10+2.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is a premier tri-service military training institution in India, located at Khadakwasla near Pune. It serves as the joint training academy for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Established in 1954, The NDA offers a three-year training program following 10+2, which combines academics, military training, physical fitness, and character development. After NDA, cadets proceed to their respective service academies for specialised training.
Candidates must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years at the time of commencement of the course for:
No. Only candidates who are appearing in or have passed 12th (10+2) can apply. However, at the time of joining NDA, the candidate must produce the 10+2 passing certificate.
Yes. Students from Arts, Commerce, or Science streams can apply, provided they meet other eligibility criteria.
Yes and No.
Yes, Biology students can apply for NDA, for Army wings only.
There is no minimum percentage requirement. Selection is purely based on performance in the written exam, SSB interview, and medical standards.
Yes. Candidates appearing in 12th can apply. However, they must produce the 10+2 passing certificate at the time of joining.
The training duration is 3 years, divided into 6 terms, each lasting 6 months.
Yes. All cadets undergo common training at NDA to build a joint-service foundation before moving to specialized academies.
There are no tuition fees. However approx. 60,000 Rs is to be deposited for personal expenses such as clothing, uniform, etc.
Yes. Cadets receive a stipend of ₹56,100 per month during their final year of training (subject to revision as per government policy).
Yes, after the 2021 Supreme Court verdict, NDA opened its entry for girls. Approximately 30–35 seats are allocated (may vary per course).
Yes, provided you meet the prescribed vision standards for the respective service.
Yes, but only on the inner forearm (between elbow and wrist) and not offensive, racist, or inappropriate.
Minimum height is 152 cm, with relaxation up to 4 cm for candidates from hilly or North-East regions.
Apply for the NDA exam conducted by UPSC, clear:
No, admission is purely merit-based through NDA written & SSB examination.
Reservations are provided as per the Government of India norms and UPSC policies.
There is no fixed minimum percentage. Selection depends on overall merit.
Yes, but only for the Army Wing. The Navy and the Air Force require Maths and Physics in 10+2.
Training is physically, mentally, and academically demanding. It builds leadership, discipline, endurance, and officer-like qualities.
There are 18 squadrons, divided into 3 battalions, each with 6 squadrons.
The daily schedule includes:
No. Training standards remain the same for all cadets.
No. Training standards are the same for both male and female cadets.
The exam includes:
It requires strong preparation and conceptual clarity.
Awarded to the best all-round cadet of the graduating batch for excellence in academics, leadership, and discipline.
No. Communication is limited and allowed on designated days.
Usage is restricted and regulated. Cadets are expected to maintain discipline and prioritize training.
Approximately:
Short festival breaks are provided (Diwali, Holi, etc.), usually for a limited duration.
Sundays are usually relaxed with sports, recreation, and personal time.
Generally, no. Cadets are allotted services based on merit and preference. Changing service later involves separate procedures.