How to Apply for NDA: Step-by-Step Guide, Criteria, Eligibility, Selection Process, Salary, and More
The National Defence Academy (NDA)Â is the premier joint defense service training institute in India, where cadets from the Army, Navy, and Air Force receive training together before moving to their respective branches for advanced training. Joining the NDA is a prestigious opportunity that requires careful preparation and understanding of the application, selection, and training process.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down how to apply for the NDA, the eligibility criteria, selection hurdles, salary details, and joining process step by step.
1. NDA Overview
The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year, typically in April and September. The academy selects candidates who aspire to serve in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Key Benefits:
Comprehensive training in leadership and defense strategies.
A fulfilling career serving in India’s armed forces.
2. Eligibility Criteria for NDA
Educational Qualification:
For Army Wing: The candidate must have passed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
For Air Force and Naval Wings: The candidate must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
Age Limit:
Candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years at the time of the exam. Ensure you meet the date of birth requirements as specified by UPSC.
Nationality:
Must be an Indian citizen or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal. Tibetan refugees who came to India before 1962 are also eligible.
Gender:
The NDA accepts male and female candidates since 2021, after the Supreme Court ruling that allowed women to sit for the exam.
Physical Standards:
Candidates must meet strict physical fitness standards. For instance, minimum height requirements vary (Army: 157 cm; Navy: 157 cm; Air Force: 162.5 cm). Vision standards and hearing ability are also scrutinized.
3. How to Apply for NDA
Step 1: NDA Exam Notification
Visit the official UPSC website.
Look for the NDA Notification and the Online Application Form release (usually in December for April exam, June for September exam).
Step 2: Register Online
Complete the online registration at the UPSC Application Portal.
Fill in your personal details, academic qualifications, and other relevant information.
Step 3: Fee Payment
Pay the application fee (approximately ₹100). Women and SC/ST candidates are exempt from this fee.
Step 4: Submit Photographs and Signature
Upload a passport-size photograph and signature as per the specified format.
Step 5: Download the Admit Card
Post-application, download your admit card from the UPSC website approximately three weeks before the exam.
4. NDA Selection Process
The selection process for NDA comprises two stages:
Stage 1: Written Examination
The written exam consists of two papers:
Mathematics (300 marks)
General Ability Test (GAT)Â (600 marks)
Both exams are conducted in objective format with negative marking for wrong answers.
Stage 2: SSB Interview
Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.
The SSB interview tests candidates through various stages, including:
Psychological Tests
Group Testing Officers (GTO) Tasks
Personal Interview
This stage typically lasts five days and evaluates leadership qualities, teamwork, physical endurance, and mental toughness.
5. Hurdles in the NDA Selection Process
Tough Competition
The NDA exam is highly competitive, with over 4 lakh candidates applying each year for around 400-450 seats.
Physical Fitness
Candidates need to meet high standards of physical fitness. Many are rejected during medical tests due to issues like color blindness, flat foot, or high BMI.
SSB Interview Complexity
The SSB interview is widely considered the most challenging part of the process. It requires excellent communication skills, leadership ability, and endurance.
6. Salary After Selection
The salary of NDA cadets is based on the 7th Pay Commission. Upon selection and while undergoing training, cadets receive a stipend of ₹56,100 per month. After successful completion of training, the pay scale increases as follows:
Lieutenant (Army) / Sub-Lieutenant (Navy) / Flying Officer (Air Force): ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500.
Promotions come with pay increases, including lucrative allowances like flying pay, high altitude allowance, uniform allowance, etc.
7. Joining Process After Selection
Step 1: Medical Examination
Post SSB interview, candidates undergo a comprehensive medical examination at a military hospital. Only candidates deemed medically fit are selected.
Step 2: Merit List
A final merit list is drawn based on the marks obtained in the written exam and SSB interview.
Step 3: NDA Training
Selected candidates join the National Defence Academy in Pune for a 3-year training program that combines academics with rigorous military training.
Upon completion of NDA, candidates move to specialized academies for branch-specific training, such as:
Indian Military Academy (IMA)Â for the Army.
Indian Naval Academy for the Navy.
Air Force Academy for the Air Force.
Conclusion
Joining the NDA is an esteemed opportunity that requires dedication, discipline, and preparation. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Make sure to focus on both physical and mental preparation to excel in the SSB interview, which is often considered the biggest challenge in the NDA selection process.
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