What is NDA Exam and NDA Full Form?

Do you want to wear the uniform and serve your country with pride? Thousands of young Indians share this dream every year. The path to becoming an officer in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force starts with one important exam, the NDA exam. Some miss out on one of the most respected career paths in India simply because they lack the right information. You could be the officer leading soldiers, protecting India's borders, and earning the respect of millions. The NDA exam is your ticket to this honor. Every year, only 400 lucky students out of 5 lakh get selected. Will you be one of them? We will show you everything about the NDA exam - from what the NDA full form to how you can crack this exam and start your journey to becoming a defense officer.

Check Out: NDA/Defence Books

What is NDA Full Form?

The NDA full form is National Defence Academy. The full form of NDA represents one of India's most important military training institutions. When people ask, "What is NDA full form?" they are asking about this special academy that trains future officers for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The full form NDA - National Defence Academy, tells us that this is a place where young people learn to become leaders in India's defense forces. 

What is NDA Exam?

The NDA exam is for what purpose? The NDA exam is a test conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is held twice every year, in April and September. This exam is for students who have passed or are in the 12th standard and want to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force as officers.

When students ask "what is NDA exam," the simple answer is that it is a gateway to becoming an officer in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. The exam tests your knowledge, skills, and ability to lead others.

History of the National Defence Academy

The National Defence Academy started in 1954 in Khadakwasla, near Pune. Before this, the Army, Navy, and Air Force had separate training schools. The government decided to create one place where all three services could train together. This was a smart idea because it helped future officers understand how all three forces work together. The academy has been training officers for almost 70 years now.

Check Out: NDA Mock Test + PYQs

Who can apply for the NDA Exam?

Not everyone can take the NDA exam. There are specific rules about who can apply:

Age Requirements

• You must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years old

• Your age is calculated from the first day of the month when you apply

Education Requirements

The education needed depends on which service you want to join:

For Army Wing:

• You need to pass Class 12 from any recognized board

• Any subjects are fine

For Navy and Air Force Wings:

• You need to pass Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics

• These subjects are important for technical roles

Other Requirements

• You must be an Indian citizen

• You cannot be married

• You must meet physical and medical standards

How Often is the NDA Exam Held?

The NDA exam happens twice every year:

• NDA 1: Usually in April

• NDA 2: Usually in September

About 5 lakh students apply for this exam every year, but only about 400 get selected. This makes it a very competitive exam.

Structure of the NDA Exam

The NDA exam has two main parts:

1. Written Examination

The written exam has two papers:

Mathematics Paper (300 marks)

• Time: 2.5 hours

• 120 questions

• Topics: Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Statistics

• All questions are multiple choice

General Ability Test (600 marks)

• Time: 2.5 hours

Two sections:

• English (200 marks): Grammar, vocabulary, reading

• General Knowledge (400 marks): Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs

2. SSB Interview (900 marks)

Students who pass the written exam go to the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. This is a 5-day process that tests:

• Leadership skills

• Problem-solving ability

• Personality

• Physical fitness

• Mental strength

Check Out: SSB Interview Book 2025

Important Changes in Recent Years

Women Can Now Join

Since 2021, girls are also allowed to take the NDA exam. This was decided by the Supreme Court of India. Now, many girls are preparing and passing the NDA exam just like boys. It is a great step for gender equality in defence services.

Technology in Exams

The exam now uses computers for some parts. This makes the process faster and more accurate.

How to Prepare for the NDA Exam

Since you're familiar with the NDA exam, let's explore smart preparation strategies to help you pass it the first time.

For Mathematics

• Study your Class 11 and 12 math books carefully

• Practice solving problems quickly

• Take practice tests regularly

• Shaurya NDA/NA Mathematics Book to get 5 5-year PYQ book and mock tests with explanation of chapters in detail.

For General Knowledge

• Read newspapers daily

• Study science topics from your school books

• Learn about Indian history and geography

• Stay updated with current events

• Shaurya NDA/NA General Ability General Knowledge Book to understand chapter weightage and PYQs.

For English

• Read books and newspapers

• Practice grammar exercises

• Work on vocabulary building

• Shaurya NDA/NA General Ability English Book with Latest 2024 Solved Paper.

Physical Preparation

• Exercise regularly

• Play sports

• Build stamina and strength

Practice Paper

• Use NDA PYQ or mock tests that contain the latest syllabus books that cover the recent exam pattern.

• Try NDA/NA National Defence Academy & Naval Academy 10 Previous Year Solved Papers (PYQs) 2019-2025 & 10 Mock Tests with 20 OMR Sheets For NDA Exams 2025-2026. This book has it all in one. So you don’t need to buy different books.

Physical Standards

The NDA has specific physical requirements:

For Boys:

• Minimum height: 157 cm (Army), 162.5 cm (Air Force)

• Good eyesight

• Healthy body weight

For Girls:

• Special standards have been set

• Good physical fitness is important

Career After NDA

Students who complete NDA training become officers in:

• Indian Army

• Indian Navy

• Indian Air Force

These officers serve the country and protect India's borders. It is a job that brings great honor and respect.

When is the NDA Exam Held?

As we said before, the NDA exam is held twice a year:

• NDA 1: In April

• NDA 2: In September

You can apply online through the UPSC website. You should start preparing at least 6 months in advance.

Read More: NDA Syllabus 2025

NDA Exam FAQs

1. What is NDA exam and who conducts it?

The NDA exam is conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) twice a year. It selects candidates for admission to the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy.

2. Can girls apply for NDA exam now?

Yes, since 2021, girls can also apply for the NDA exam. The Supreme Court of India allowed female candidates to take the exam and join the academy.

3. What is the duration of training at NDA?

The training at NDA lasts for 3 years. After this, you go to respective service academies for further training before becoming an officer.

4.Is there negative marking in NDA exam?

Yes, there is negative marking. You lose 0.83 marks for wrong answers in Mathematics and 1.33 marks for wrong answers in General Ability Test.