NDA 2 2026 Notification Released: Application and Exam Details Announced by UPSC
As the NDA 2 2026 examination approaches, we are pleased to provide the latest information regarding this esteemed exam. The National Defense Academy exam serves as a vital step for individuals aspiring for a career in the armed forces, and staying informed is essential for candidates.
Our team has compiled comprehensive details about the NDA 2 2026 Notification, including exam dates and eligibility requirements, to assist candidates in their preparation.
This guide offers extensive information about NDA 2 2026, covering the application process, age restrictions, and selection procedures. Additionally, it provides insights into the exam structure and strategies for successful preparation.
Whether you are applying for the first time or making another attempt, this article aims to equip you with a clear plan to pursue your goal of serving the nation through NDA 2 2026.
NDA 2 2026 Notification Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the NDA 2 2026 notification, initiating the application process for the 158th Course of the National Defence Academy and the 120th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC). This notification opens doors for young individuals to achieve their dreams of joining the respected defence forces.
Key Dates for NDA 2 2026
| NDA 2 2026 EVENTS | DATES |
| NDA 2 2026 Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| NDA 2 2026 Application Last Date | 9 June 2026 |
| NDA 2 2026 Exam Date | 13 September 2026 (SUNDAY) |
| NDA 2 2026 Admit Card Download Date | Last working day of the preceding week of the date of the examination. |
| NDA 2 2026 Result Date (Expected) | September – November 2026 |
NDA 2 2026 Vacancy Details
The UPSC has detailed the vacancy distribution for the NDA 2 2026 examination. There are 394 available positions, divided as follows:
| Organization | Total Vacancies | Female Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Army | 198 | 10 |
| Indian Navy | 37 | 5 |
| Indian Air Force - Flying | 90 | 2 |
| Indian Air Force - Ground Duties (Tech) | 16 | 2 |
| Indian Air Force - Ground Duties (Non-Tech) | 8 | 2 |
| Indian Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 21 | 3 |
These vacancies are provisional and may be adjusted based on the training capacity of the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy.
NDA 2 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates interested in applying for the NDA 2 2026 exam must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria set by UPSC. Key eligibility requirements include:
Nationality
- Candidates must be citizens of India, or
- Candidates must be subjects of Nepal, or
- Candidates must be persons of Indian origin who have migrated from specified countries with the intention of permanent settlement.
Candidates from categories (ii) and (iii) must have a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India, except for Gorkha subjects of Nepal.
Age Limit and Marital Status
- Candidates must be unmarried.
- For NDA 2 2026, candidates should be born not earlier than January 1, 2008 and not later than January 1, 2011.
The acceptable date of birth for the Commission is that recorded in official educational documents.
Educational Qualification
- For Army Wing: Completion of the 12th class examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
- For Air Force and Naval Wing: Completion of the 12th class examination or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from a recognized board.
- 12th appearing candidates may apply, provided they secure their results by June 10, 2027, if selected in SSB.
Physical Standards
- Candidates must fulfill the physical fitness standards specified in the NDA 2 2026 notification.
Applicants should consult the official NDA 2 2026 notification for definitive eligibility details.
Fee
Most candidates are required to pay a fee of Rs. 100, with exceptions for SC/ST candidates, female candidates, and wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs. Fee payment discrepancies may lead to application rejection, and applicants must provide proof of payment within specified periods.
NDA 2 2026 Application Process
The NDA application process is conducted online via the UPSC website, and timely submission is crucial to avoid disqualification.
Steps to Apply:
Applicants should remain aware of any procedural changes before applying.
- Registration: Access the official website for account creation and form submission.
- Fill Application Form: Provide necessary personal, educational, and preference details.
- Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of photograph, signature, and ID proof.
- Pay Application Fee: Use online payment methods for fee submission.
- Submit Form: Finalize form details before submission.
NDA 2 2026 Exam Pattern
The NDA 2 2026 exam features a written examination followed by an SSB interview. The written test includes two papers on Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT).
Written Examination
The Mathematics paper is worth 300 marks with 120 questions, each correct answer earning 2.5 marks and an incorrect answer incurring a 0.83 mark penalty. The GAT paper carries 600 marks with 150 questions, awarding 4 marks per correct answer and deducting 1.33 marks for incorrect answers. Both exams last 2.5 hours and are conducted offline.
SSB Interview
Successful written exam candidates attend the SSB interview, which evaluates intelligence, personality, and military suitability across several days.
NDA Exam Cut Off Marks
| NDA EXAM YEAR | WRITTEN EXAM MARKS | WRITTEN + SSB |
|---|---|---|
| NDA & NA (II) 2025 | 304.9 (for Male) and 358.84 (for Female) | 666.01 (for Male) and 737.40 (for Female) |
| NDA & NA (I) 2025 | 334 | 699 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2024 | 305 | 673 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2024 | 291 | 654 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2023 | 292 | 656 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2023 | 301 | 664 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2022 | 316 | 678 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2022 | 360 | 720 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2021 | 355 | 726 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2021 | 343 | 709 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2020 | 355 | 723 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2020 | 355 | 723 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2019 | 342 | 704 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2018 | 325 | 688 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2018 | 338 | 705 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2017 | 258 | 624 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2017 | 342 | 708 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2016 | 229 | 602 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2016 | 288 | 656 |
| NDA & NA (II) 2015 | 269 | 637 |
| NDA & NA (I) 2015 | 306 | 674 |
NDA 2 2026 Admit Card
The NDA 2 2026 admit card will be available on the UPSC website. Candidates can download it using their registration or roll number. It contains crucial details about the exam and is required for entry to the exam center, along with a valid photo ID.
NDA 2 2026 Written Result
UPSC will release the NDA 2 2026 results on their website. Candidates can verify their results using their roll number or name to check their qualification status. Marks will be disclosed after the final results.
NDA 2 2026 Selection Process
The selection procedure for NDA 2 2026 includes a written examination followed by an SSB interview.
- Written Examination: Successful candidates proceed to the SSB interview based on exam performance.
- SSB Interview: This involves psychological, group, and personal assessments to evaluate various qualities.
- Medical Examination: A thorough health check ensures candidates meet the physical and mental standards for the armed forces.
- Final Selection: UPSC will create a final list of successful candidates based on combined written exam and SSB interview performance.
Candidate Helpline for Assistance
UPSC has established a dedicated helpline to aid candidates during the application process.
- Helpline Number: 011-24041001
- Working Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Working Days: Monday to Friday (except holidays)
This helpline can assist with:
- Completing the application form
- Resolving fee payment issues
- Uploading necessary documents
- Other application-related inquiries
Conclusion
The NDA 2 2026 notification marks an exceptional opportunity for young candidates to join the prestigious National Defence Academy and contribute to national service. Thoroughly review the official notification, meet the eligibility criteria, and prepare diligently to achieve success in the examination. Best wishes for your endeavors!
