Cracking the UPSC National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam is the dream of thousands of aspirants who want to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force as officers right after 12th.
To achieve success, the first step is to clearly understand the latest UPSC NDA syllabus 2025. A clear idea of the syllabus helps you know what to study, how to plan, and where to focus your energy.
In this detailed guide, we will cover the complete syllabus, exam pattern, selection process, cutoff, preparation tips, and recommended books to make your NDA journey smoother.
Table of Contents
UPSC NDA Exam Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | National Defence Academy (NDA) |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Level | National (12th Level) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Papers | Mathematics & GAT |
| Total Marks | 900 (Written Exam) + 900 (SSB Interview) |
| Duration | 2.5 hours each paper |
| Frequency | Twice a year (NDA 1 & NDA 2) |
NDA Exam Pattern 2025
The NDA 2025 written exam consists of two objective-type papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). The Mathematics paper is of 300 marks, and the GAT carries 600 marks, making the total 900 marks for the written exam.
Each paper is of 2.5 hours duration, and a negative marking of 1/3rd is applied for every wrong answer.
Paper Pattern Breakdown:
- Mathematics (300 marks)
- General Ability Test (600 marks)
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 Hours |
| Paper II | General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2.5 Hours |
| Total | Written Exam | 900 | 5 Hours |
Key Points:
- Total duration: 2.5 hours per paper.
- Both papers are objective type (MCQs).
- Negative marking for wrong answers (1/3rd deduction).
- Minimum qualifying marks are decided by UPSC every year.
NDA Subject-Wise Syllabus
Understanding the NDA syllabus is the first step towards effective preparation. The exam is designed to test not just your knowledge, but also your conceptual clarity, speed, and analytical skills.
The written exam is divided into two papers: Mathematics (300 marks) and the General Ability Test (600 marks). Let’s go through each subject in detail.
Paper I: Mathematics (300 Marks)
Mathematics in NDA is not about rote learning; it’s about clarity in fundamentals and quick application. If your basics are strong and you practise regularly, scoring here becomes easier. The syllabus covers:
- Algebra: Sets, Relations, Functions, Complex numbers, Quadratic equations, Permutations & Combinations, Binomial theorem.
- Matrices & Determinants: Types, properties, inverse, and applications in solving equations.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric ratios, Identities, Heights & Distances, Inverse functions.
- Analytical Geometry (2D & 3D): Straight lines, Circles, Conic sections, Basics of 3D geometry.
- Differential Calculus: Limits, Continuity, Derivatives, Maxima and Minima, simple applications.
- Integral Calculus & Differential Equations: Definite & Indefinite integrals, applications, and basics of differential equations.
- Vector Algebra: Dot & Cross product, Scalar & Vector triple product.
- Statistics & Probability: Mean, Median, Mode, Variance, Probability rules and simple problems.
Paper II: General Ability Test (600 Marks)
The GAT checks your overall awareness, language skills, and general understanding of science and humanities. It has two parts:
Part A – English (200 Marks)
The English section is aimed at testing your basic grammar and communication ability. Strong English helps not just in the exam but also in SSB interviews. Topics include:
- Grammar and Usage
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases)
- Comprehension passages
- Sentence improvement and spotting errors
- Cohesion and understanding of English passages
Part B – General Knowledge (400 Marks)
This part combines Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, Current Affairs, and General Science. A strong grip over NCERTs and newspapers is very useful here.
- Physics: Mechanics, Motion, Force, Energy, Heat, Electricity, Magnetism, Optics, Sound, Modern Physics.
- Chemistry: Classification of elements, Atomic structure, Organic reactions, Acids & Bases, Oxidation-Reduction.
- General Science: Human physiology, Nutrition, Diseases, Environment & Ecology, Basics of Biotechnology.
- History & Freedom Movement: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern history, with special focus on India’s freedom struggle.
- Geography: Earth’s structure, Climate, Resources, Indian geography, and World geography.
- Current Events: National & International issues, Sports, Defence updates, Awards, Summits, and recent happenings.
Expected NDA Cutoff Marks (Written & Final)
While the official cutoff will be released by UPSC after the results, preparing with expected ranges gives aspirants a clear target. Here is what coaching institutes and experts forecast based on trends and exam patterns:
Expected Cutoff Ranges
| Academy | Written Exam Cutoff (Expected) | Final Cutoff (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | 120 – 130 | 245 – 255 |
| INA | 105 – 120 | 233 – 245 |
| AFA | 145 – 150 | 268 – 270 |
| OTA (Men) | 73 – 85 | 162 – 170 |
| OTA (Women) | 74 – 85 | 164 – 170 |
These numbers are based on expert analysis from sources like Testbook, Shiksha, and coaching institutes.
Key Factors Influencing Cutoffs
- Difficulty Level – Tougher papers often result in lower cutoffs and vice versa.
- Vacancy Count – Lower vacancies usually push cutoffs higher than in previous years.
- Candidate Performance – Better overall performance bumps the required marks upward.
NDA Selection Process
Getting into the National Defence Academy (NDA) is not just about cracking a written exam; it’s a journey with multiple stages of testing your knowledge, personality, and physical fitness.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the NDA selection process:
1. Written Examination
- The NDA written exam has two papers: Mathematics (300 marks) and General Ability Test (600 marks).
- Only those who score above the cutoff move to the next stage.
- This stage checks your academic foundation, speed, and accuracy.
2. SSB (Service Selection Board) Interview
- A five-day process that examines your officer-like qualities.
- It includes screening tests, psychological assessments, group tasks, a personal interview, and leadership evaluation.
- The aim is to see if you have the right mindset, confidence, and decision-making skills to be a future officer.
3. Medical Examination
- Recommended candidates undergo a thorough medical check-up at military hospitals.
- This ensures you meet the required standards of fitness, eyesight, and overall health.
- Even with high marks, failing medicals means disqualification — so physical fitness matters as much as preparation.
4. Final Merit List
- The final selection is based on a written exam (900 marks) + SSB Interview (900 marks) = a total of 1800 marks.
- Separate merit lists are prepared for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.
- Selected candidates begin training at NDA Khadakwasla, Pune, followed by specialised training at IMA/INA/AFA.
In short, the NDA selection process is about mind + body + personality. If you prepare smartly for the exam, stay fit, and polish your communication and leadership skills, you can definitely make it through!
NDA Preparation Tips
Preparation for NDA should be a mix of academics, current affairs, and fitness.
- Know the syllabus & pattern: Focus on Maths, English, and GK.
- Strengthen Maths basics: Practice NCERT + daily problem-solving.
- Master GAT: Improve grammar, vocabulary, current affairs, and science.
- Solve papers: Attempt previous year papers & mock tests.
- Stay fit: Regular running, push-ups, and a healthy lifestyle for SSB & medicals.
- Improve personality: Work on communication, leadership, and confidence.
- Be consistent: Study 5–6 focused hours daily with regular revision.
Smart study + fitness + confidence = NDA success!
Recommended Books for NDA exam
- Mathematics: R.D. Sharma, RS Aggarwal, NCERT 11 & 12 Maths.
- English: Wren & Martin, Objective General English (SP Bakshi).
- GK: Lucent’s GK, NCERT Science & Social Studies books, Manorama Yearbook.
- Current Affairs: The Hindu, PIB, Yojana, monthly magazines.
FAQs: UPSC NDA syllabus 2025
What is the NDA exam?
The NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is conducted by the UPSC for candidates aiming to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force right after class 12. It consists of a written exam (Mathematics + General Ability Test) followed by the SSB interview.
What is after selection at NDA?
Once selected, you train at NDA, Pune, for three years, earn a Bachelor’s degree (B.A., B.Sc., or B.Tech, depending on the stream), and then move to pre-commissioning academies (IMA, INA, or Air Force Academy) for specialised training.
Do NDA cadets receive salaries or holidays?
Yes, NDA cadets receive stipends during training and enjoy regular holidays, along with boarding and lodging.
How many attempts are allowed for NDA?
There is no restriction on the number of attempts. You can apply as long as your age falls between 16.5 to 19.5 years
Is there an application fee?
Yes, for General and OBC male candidates, the fee is INR 100. However, female, SC/ST, and sons of JCO/NCO/ORs are exempted.
Are females allowed in NDA?
Yes! Since 2021, the NDA exam has been open to both men and women. Though female seats are limited, they are slowly increasing.
What is the role of the SSB Interview?
After clearing the written test, candidates appear for the SSB Interview, which spans five days and evaluates their personality, leadership, mental abilities, and physical fitness. It includes tasks like OIR, PP&DT, group discussions, personal interviews, and physical tests.
Is NDA very tough?
Yes, NDA is competitive, but with disciplined study, smart strategy, and good understanding of the syllabus, it’s entirely achievable.
Who is eligible to apply for NDA?
For the NDA exam, candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years of age. In terms of education, those applying for the Army wing can be from any stream in Class 12, while candidates for the Navy and Air Force wings must have Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
What is the NDA Exam Pattern?
The NDA exam pattern includes two objective-type papers: Mathematics (300 marks, 2½ hours) and the General Ability Test GAT (600 marks, 2½ hours). The written exam carries a total of 900 marks, with 1/3rd negative marking for every wrong answer.
Conclusion
The UPSC NDA Syllabus may feel lengthy, but with NCERT basics, past papers, current affairs, and fitness, it’s very much manageable. Stay consistent, and the NDA is achievable. With focus and confidence, your dream of joining the Armed Forces can come true.
If you are also aiming for officer-level exams after graduation, don’t miss the UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025. It’s the next big step in your defence journey.
