Eligibility to apply for NDA & NA (I) 2026

The eligibility condition is a pass in plus-two from a recognised educational institution. Applicants must be at least 19 years old. Candidates must be citizens of India and may reside in any state or union territory of India. More information is provided below in tabular format for the sake of the candidates:

As per the NDA 1 Notification 2026, candidates must meet specific educational qualifications and age criteria. Candidates can refer to the below NDA 2026 Eligibility Criteria:

• For the Army Wing of the National Defence Academy, candidates need a 12th Class pass from a recognized State Education Board or University.
• For the Air Force and Naval Wings, as well as the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy, a 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics is required.
• Only unmarried male/female candidates born not earlier than 1st July 2007 and not later than 01st July 2010 are eligible
• They must remain unmarried until completing their training.

Exam Pattern for NDA & NA (I) 2026

The NDA exam is conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) in India twice a year. It is a national-level examination that is conducted to select candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exam is open to unmarried male and female candidates who are citizens of India and meet certain age and educational qualifications. This recruitment offers a valuable opportunity for 12th-pass candidates to join the Defence forces.

• The candidates will be called for the Written examination, followed by the SSB Interview (Intelligence and Personality Test).
• The selected candidates will also get a salary of Rs. 56,100 per month.
• Candidates must qualify at all stages of the selection process to be recruited.