The registration window for the NDA & NA exam typically opens about 8 to 10 weeks before the written exam date. Candidates must first complete the One‑Time Registration (OTR) on the official UPSC portal, then fill out and submit the NDA & NA application form within the prescribed period.But for exact date check the notification on the official website of https://upsconline.nic.in/
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NDA & NA?
NDA stands for National Defence Academy which is a graduation cum military training college situated in Khadakwasla, Pune. It is one of a kind tri-service academy where cadets of all the three armed forces train together for three years. The intake is twice a year.
NA stands for Naval Academy that is situated in Ezhimala, Kerala. It is also a graduation cum military college exclusively for naval cadets. All the naval cadets in NDA also go to NA after completing their college in NDA.
What is the written exam pattern of NDA 2025?
The exam paper is divided into two sections – Mathematics and General Ability Test.
SUBJECT | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allotted |
MATHEMATICS | 120 | 300 | 2 hrs 30 min |
GENERAL ABILITY TEST | 150 | 600 | 2 hrs 30 min |
Note that there is 1/3rd negative marking.
What is the last date to apply for NDA exam?
Check the notification released on https://upsconline.nic.in/
When does the registration for NDA & NA exam start?
What are the Educational qualifications required for CDS exam?
Academy | Educational Qualification (Final year students can apply) |
Graduation | |
Indian Naval Academy(INA) | B.E/B.Tech (10+2 with Physics & Maths) |
Air Force Academy(AFA) | For ground duty: Graduation |
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) | Graduation |
What is the age limit to apply for IMA?
The age of the aspirant must be between 19-24 years at the commencement of course, which means to apply for the CDS exam one must be of around 18 years 9 months to 23years 9 months.
Can I apply for AFCAT after class 12?
To apply for AFCAT exam candidates must be a graduate with minimum 60% marks.
When was National Defence Academy Established?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) was established in 1954 in Khadakwasla, Pune, Maharashtra. It is the world’s first tri-service academy, where cadets of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force are trained together before they proceed to their respective service academies. The idea of a joint services academy was first proposed after World War II, and the foundation stone was laid in 1949, with training commencing in 1954.
Is Mathematics is compulsory for CDS?
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Does AFCAT allow women candidates?
Yes, women are eligible for the AFCAT exam. The Indian Air Force welcomes unmarried female candidates for Short Service Commission in the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) roles. They must meet the same age, educational, and physical requirements as male candidates. Age limits vary by branch: typically 20–24 years for flying roles and 20–26 years for ground-duty positions.
What is the full form of CDS?
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How much percentage is required to apply for CDS exam?
There is no specific percentage required in graduation to apply for the CDS exam. Candidates must simply hold a degree from a recognized university. However, to qualify in the written exam, they need to secure at least 20% marks in each subject—English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics (if applicable). Meeting this minimum cutoff is essential to move forward to the SSB interview stage and continue in the selection process.
How many attempts are allowed for CDS exam?
You can appear for the CDS exam as many times as you like, provided you meet the age eligibility criteria for your desired academy. There is no fixed limit on attempts, and each CDS notification (CDS-I and CDS-II) offers a new chance. Your eligibility depends on your age—typically between 19 and 25 years, depending on the academy. Once you exceed the upper age limit, you can no longer appl
When will the next CDS exam take place?
The next CDS exam typically occurs in September as part of UPSC’s twice-yearly schedule. It is conducted in a single day across three sessions—English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics—with separate timings for each paper. Exact dates and timings are officially announced a few months before the exam. Candidates are advised to monitor UPSC’s examination calendar around mid-summer to stay updated on registration deadlines, admit card releases, and the detailed timetable.
What is the selection process in CDS exam?
The CDS written exam is conducted in offline mode using the pen-and-paper format. Candidates are required to mark their answers on OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) sheets using a black ballpoint pen. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and is held at designated exam centers across India. Each paper is conducted in a separate session, and candidates must strictly follow all exam-day instructions provided by UPSC.
What is the motto of National Defence Academy?
The motto of the National Defence Academy (NDA) is “Seva Parmo Dharma”, which translates to “Service Before Self” in English. This guiding principle reflects the core values of the Indian Armed Forces, emphasizing duty, selflessness, and dedication to the nation above all personal interests. NDA cadets are trained to uphold this motto throughout their careers as officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
To which University National Defence Academy is affiliated?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is affiliated with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi. During their three years of training at NDA, cadets pursue an academic curriculum alongside military training. On successful completion, they are awarded a Bachelor’s degree (BA, BSc, or BSc in Computer Science) by JNU. After NDA, cadets move on to their respective service academies for further pre-commission training.
What is NDA?
The National Defence Academy is a joint services academy of the Indian Armed Forces, where cadets of Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force get training together before they go on to pre-commissioning training in their respective service academies. It is the first tri-service academy in the world. The place which is made to change boys into men. The cradle of military leadership.Candidates for NDA are selected through a written examination, SSB and personal interview which is held twice a year.
Which is a better entry NDA or TES?
NDA is for National Defence is for National Defence Academy and Academy and TES stands for TES stands for Technical Entry Scheme. echnical Entry Scheme. First of all, one should know that NDA is for all streams, while for TES only students with 75% aggregate in PCM can apply. For TES entry, you have to directly appear for your SSB while for NDA you need to first clear the written exam. In terms of future prospective and life thereafter, i will suggest to aim for TES, as the technical officers have upper hand over other officers when it comes to pay packages as they receive an extra Technical allowances.
What is the pattern and syllabus of NDA written exam?
The NDA written Examination comprises a total of 900 marks which is further divided into two parts, Mathematics which consists of 300 Marks and General Ability Test which comprises of 600 Marks. The syllabus of Mathematics include The syllabus of Mathematics include Algebra, Matrices and Determinants, Algebra, Matrices and Determinants, Trigonometry rigonometry, Analytical Geometry of two and three dimensions, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations.Equations, Vector Algebra, Statistics and Probability Algebra, Statistics and Probability. Further . Further, the General , the General Ability Ability Test include two parts. The first part, English comprising of 50 questions of 200 marks and Part two, comprises of 100 questions in 400 marks which include Physics(100 marks), Chemistry(60 marks), General Science(40 marks), Indian History & Freedom Movement in India(80 marks), Political Science and Geography(80 marks) and Current Events(40 marks).
Can i bring mobile phone in SSB?
No, candidates are not allowed to carry mobile phones or any electronic devices inside the SSB (Services Selection Board) premises. Phones must be switched off and deposited at the designated location upon arrival. Use of mobile phones during the testing process is strictly prohibited to maintain discipline, security, and fairness. It’s advised to inform your family beforehand and limit usage to allowed times or areas if permitted.e.
What is the age limit to apply for NDA & NA exam?
The age limit to apply for the NDA & NA exam is 16.5 to 19.5 years. Candidates must be unmarried male or female and should be born between the dates specified in the official UPSC notification. No age relaxation is provided for any category. The candidate’s age is calculated as of the date mentioned in the exam notification, typically six months before the course begins at the NDA. This age range allows candidates to apply while still in school or shortly after completing Class 12, making NDA one of the earliest entry points into the Indian Armed Forces.
Can a final year student apply for CDS?
Yes, final year candidates can apply for CDS, but you should complete your degree before the date of joining.
What is the age eligibility of AFCAT examination?
(i) Flying Branch through AFCAT and NCC Special Entry: 20 to 24 years on commencement of course, which means to apply this one must be of around 19 years 9 months to 23years 9 months.
NOTE- Upper age limit for candidates holding valid and current Commercial Pilot License issued by DGCA (India) is relax able up to 26 years on commencement of course.
(ii) Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branch: 20 to 26 years as on commencement of course, which means to apply this one must be of around 19 years 9 months to 25 years 9 months.
How many times can I apply for NDA exam?
You can apply for the NDA exam multiple times as long as you are within the age limit of 16.5 to 19.5 years. There is no restriction on the number of attempts. Since the exam is conducted twice a year, candidates can usually attempt it 4 to 5 times, depending on their age when they first become eligible and how early they start applying.
What does AFCAT stand for?
AFCAT stands for Air Force Common Admission Test. It is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Indian Air Force to select candidates for Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches. The exam is held twice a year, and both male and female candidates can apply. AFCAT serves as a gateway for graduates to join the Indian Air Force as commissioned officers.
Where can one apply/register for AFCAT?
One can apply for the AFCAT exam by registering online through the official Indian Air Force website, specifically at afcat.cdac.in. The application process involves completing a one-time registration, filling in personal and academic details, uploading the required documents, and paying the application fee online. All communication, admit card downloads, and result updates are managed through this portal, making it the official and only platform for AFCAT registration and application.
How many times AFCAT is conducted in a year?
AFCAT is conducted twice a year by the Indian Air Force. The two sessions are generally held in February (AFCAT 1) and August (AFCAT 2). This gives candidates two chances each year to apply for different branches such as Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical). Regular preparation and awareness of the notification dates can help candidates make the most of both opportunities.o.
What is the age limit to apply for IMA?
The age limit to apply for the Indian Military Academy (IMA) through the CDS exam is 19 to 24 years. Only unmarried male candidates are eligible for this entry. The candidate’s age must fall within the range specified in the official UPSC notification for each exam cycle. This ensures that applicants are eligible to begin training at IMA upon successful completion of the selection process.
What is the pattern and syllabus of NDA written exam?
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What is the mode of registration for CDS exam?
The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam registration is conducted exclusively online through the UPSC’s official portal. Candidates must complete a One-Time Registration (OTR) profile and then fill out the detailed application form for the CDS cycle of their choice. You’ll need to provide personal information, educational qualifications, scanned documents, and a photograph. The application process is completed only after paying the required fee online, after which the confirmation is generated.
What is the mode of CDS Written exam?
The CDS written exam is conducted in offline mode using the pen-and-paper format. Candidates are required to mark their answers on OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) sheets using a black ballpoint pen. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and is held at designated exam centers across India. Each paper is conducted in a separate session, and candidates must strictly follow all exam-day instructions provided by UPSC..
Who conducts CDS exam and what is its purpose?
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam twice a year. The purpose of this exam is to select eligible candidates for admission into prestigious defence academies such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Successful candidates undergo rigorous training to become commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
What is the fee of CDS application form?
The application fee for the CDS exam is ₹200 for General and OBC male candidates. However, female candidates and those belonging to SC/ST categories are exempted from paying any fee. The payment can be made through online modes such as debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI. Candidates can also pay via SBI challan. It’s important to note that the fee is non-refundable, regardless of attendance in the exam.
