The Indian Armed Forces are more than just a profession — they’re a way of life. A career in the Army, Navy, or Air Force is about honour, courage, and the opportunity to serve the nation. Thousands of young aspirants dream of wearing the uniform and contributing to the country’s defence and pride.
For many, the National Defence Academy (NDA) is the gateway to this dream. The NDA exam, conducted twice a year by UPSC, is the first step towards becoming an officer in India’s prestigious armed forces. It is not just an exam but a test of determination, discipline, and dedication.
If you’re a beginner aiming to clear the NDA written exam, this guide is your starting point. From understanding the exam pattern to planning your study schedule, it covers everything you need to embark on your journey to the academy, and beyond.
What is NDA exam
The NDA exam is one of India’s most popular defence entrance tests. It allows young aspirants to join the armed forces after Class 12.
The exam is conducted in two stages: Written Examination and SSB Interview
The written test is of 900 marks and includes two papers. Paper 1: Mathematics (300 marks) and Paper 2: General Ability Test (600 marks)
Both papers are objective type with negative marking. The exam is conducted in offline mode in both Hindi and English.
Candidates who clear the written test are called for the SSB interview.
NDA Syllabus & Pattern
Understanding the syllabus is the first step. The written exam tests both mathematical skills and general awareness.
NDA Mathematics Paper:
- Algebra, Matrices, and Determinants
- Trigonometry and Analytical Geometry
- Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus
- Probability, Statistics, and Vector Algebra
NDA General Ability Test (GAT):
The GAT is divided into two parts:
- Part A: English (200 marks) — grammar, comprehension, and vocabulary
- Part B: General Knowledge (400 marks) — physics, chemistry, history, geography, current affairs
Time for each paper is 2.5 hours. Practice solving papers within the time limit to improve speed and accuracy.
Best Study Plan for NDA
A well-planned schedule helps cover the vast syllabus. Here’s a simple plan for beginners:
- Start at least 6 months before the exam.
- Allocate 3–4 hours daily, focusing more on weak areas.
- Begin with basics, then move to advanced topics.
- Practice previous year question papers every week.
- Dedicate separate time for current affairs and English improvement.
Break your day into slots:
- Morning: Mathematics practice
- Afternoon: English & Vocabulary
- Evening: General Knowledge and revision
Stay consistent and avoid overloading yourself. Take short breaks and stay healthy.
Final Tips & FAQs
Here are a few last-minute tips to give your preparation a personal touch:
- Stay updated with daily news and defence-related events.
- Take mock tests in real exam conditions.
- Revise formulas, grammar rules, and important facts regularly.
- Work on physical fitness alongside academics.
