UPSC NDA Recruitment 2026 – Complete Notification, Eligibility, Dates, Selection Process & Apply Online
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is set to conduct the National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination 2026 for candidates who wish to build a prestigious career in the Indian Armed Forces. Through this examination, eligible candidates will be selected for training at the National Defence Academy, leading to permanent commission in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
NDA is one of the most respected defence examinations in India and is a gateway for young aspirants who dream of serving the nation with pride, discipline, and leadership.
About NDA Examination 2026
The NDA exam is conducted twice every year by UPSC to recruit candidates after Class 12. Selected candidates undergo rigorous training at the National Defence Academy,, before being inducted as officers in the Indian Defence Forces.
NDA Recruitment 2026 – Highlights
Details Information;-
Exam Name National Defence Academy (NDA) 2026
Conducting Body Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Total Vacancies 390+ (Expected)
Forces Army, Navy, Air
Mode of Application Online
Job Location Across India
Official Website upsc.gov.in
Vacancy Details
- Indian Army
- Indian Navy
- Indian Air Force
📌 Exact branch-wise and category-wise vacancy distribution will be released in the official notification.
Educational Qualification
To be eligible for NDA Recruitment 2026, candidates must fulfill the following academic criteria:
- Must have passed or appearing in Class 12 from a recognized board.
- Army Wing: Candidates from any stream are eligible.
- Navy & Air Force: Candidates must have Physics and Mathematics in Class 12.
Age Limit (As per NDA Rules)
Candidates must fall within the age range specified by UPSC for NDA 2026.
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
- Date of birth criteria will be mentioned clearly in the official notification.
Important Dates (Tentative)
Application Start 10 December 2025
Last Date to Apply 30 December 2025
NDA Written Exam 12 April 2026
Application Fee
- General / OBC Candidates: 100/-
- SC / ST / Female Candidates: NO Fee
NDA Selection Process 2026
The selection of candidates will be done in two stages:
Stage 1: Written Examination
The written exam consists of two papers:
- Mathematics
- General Ability Test (GAT)
Both papers are objective type and conducted offline.
Stage 2: SSB Interview
Candidates who qualify the written exam will be called for SSB Interview, which includes:
- Intelligence & Psychological Tests
- Group Tasks
- Personal Interview
- Medical Examination
How to Apply for NDA Recruitment 2026?
Follow the step-by-step process:
- Visit the official UPSC website
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill NDA 2026 online application form
- Upload photograph and signature
- Pay the application fee
- Submit the form and download confirmation page
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Apply only through official UPSC website
- Ensure all details are correct before submission
- Keep a copy of application form for reference
- Regularly check UPSC website for updates
Official Website 🌐 https://www.upsc.gov.in
Candidates must refer to the official UPSC NDA Recruitment 2026 notification for exact details and updates.