Who Can Join NDA? Eligibility, Age, and Exam Details Simplified

• Admin
• 2025-10-17

The National Defence Academy (NDA) is not just an exam — it’s the gateway to a proud and honourable life in the Indian Armed Forces. Every year, thousands of young Indians dream of joining the NDA to serve the nation. At Shield Defence Academy, we help those dreams take flight.

If you’re also wondering, “Am I eligible for NDA?” — here’s a simple breakdown of everything you need to know.

 What is NDA?

The NDA Exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It’s the first step toward becoming an officer in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.

Those who qualify for both the written test and SSB Interview get admission to the National Defence Academy, where they undergo joint training before moving to their respective academies:

• IMA (Indian Military Academy) – Army

• INA (Indian Naval Academy) – Navy

• AFA (Air Force Academy) – Air Force

At Shield Defence Academy, Lucknow, we prepare students from start to finish — written exam, physical fitness, and SSB interview — to help them achieve their NDA dream.

 NDA Eligibility Criteria

1. Nationality

• Must be an Indian citizen.

• Citizens of Nepal and individuals of Indian origin who migrated from certain countries can also apply (with valid documents).

2. Gender

• Both boys and girls can apply for the NDA exam.
  (Earlier, only boys were allowed, but since 2021, girls can also join.)

3. Educational Qualification

• For Army Wing: Passed or appearing in Class 12 (any stream – Arts, Commerce, or Science).

• For Air Force & Naval Wings / Naval Academy: Passed or appearing in Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics.

 If you aim for Air Force or Navy, Science with Maths is compulsory.

 NDA Age Limit

You should be between 16.5 and 19.5 years old on the date of joining.
That means you can apply right after your Class 12 exams but not after crossing 19.5 years of age.

For example, candidates eligible for NDA 1 2026 should be born between July 2007 and July 2010 (approximately).
There’s no age relaxation for any category.

 Physical Standards for NDA

Physical fitness is a must for future defence officers. Here are some key standards:

• Height: Minimum 157 cm for Army (different for Air Force/Navy).

• Weight: Should match height and age.

• Vision: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other (correctable).

• Candidates must be medically fit and free from serious health issues.

At Shield Defence Academy, we ensure students build strong physical endurance and confidence through regular fitness sessions and personality grooming.

 NDA Exam Pattern

The written exam consists of two papers held on the same day:

Paper	Subject	Marks	Duration
Paper 1	Mathematics	300	2.5 hours
Paper 2	General Ability Test (GAT)	600	2.5 hours
Total	—	900 Marks	—

After the written test, shortlisted candidates face the SSB Interview (also 900 marks).
Final selection is based on overall performance in both stages.

 Number of Attempts

There’s no restriction on the number of NDA attempts.
As long as you meet the age limit (16.5–19.5 years), you can apply for every exam — NDA 1 and NDA 2 — conducted twice a year.

 Why Choose Shield Defence Academy for NDA Coaching?

Shield Defence Academy, Lucknow, is one of India’s most trusted institutes for NDA preparation. We combine academic excellence with military discipline to ensure complete readiness.

Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Experienced Ex-Defence Officers & SSB Experts as mentors

• Comprehensive study material with updated syllabus

• Regular mock tests and physical training sessions

• SSB interview guidance, GTO tasks, and personality development

• Consistent record of NDA selections

Our motto is simple — “Your Dream, Our Mission.”

 Final Words

So, who can join NDA?
Anyone — male or female — who has passed or is appearing in Class 12, is between 16.5 and 19.5 years old, and is physically fit can apply.

Joining the NDA means starting a life filled with discipline, leadership, honour, and pride.
If you’re ready to take that step, Shield Defence Academy, Lucknow, is here to train, guide, and motivate you every step of the way.

 Begin Your NDA Journey with Shield Defence Academy Today!
Visit: https://shielddefenceacademy.in/