Eligibility & Age (Summary)👉UPSC NDA NA I 2026

Educational: Army wing — 12th pass (10+2). Air Force, Naval Wings, and 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme — 12th pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Candidates appearing in 12th can also apply, but must submit proof of passing by 10 Dec 2026.

Age (as on 01-07-2027): Minimum 16.5 years (born not later than 01/07/2010), Maximum 19.5 years (born not earlier than 01/07/2007). Only unmarried candidates are eligible.

Additional Eligibility: Indian nationals; physically and mentally fit as per NDA standards; no criminal record.

Selection Process — Detailed Breakdown

The UPSC NDA NA I 2026 selection is a three-stage process designed to test knowledge, intelligence, personality, leadership, and fitness of candidates. Understanding each stage is crucial for preparation.

• Stage 1: Written Examination (900 Marks)
  • Paper I — Mathematics (300 Marks). Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Geometry, Statistics.
  • Paper II — General Ability Test (600 Marks). Sections: English (200), Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Current Events (400).
  • Duration: 2.5 hours per paper.
  • Preparation Tip: Solve previous years’ papers, focus on NCERTs, use standard reference books, and practice mock tests under timed conditions.
  • Negative Marking: One-third marks deducted for wrong answers.
• Stage 2: SSB Interview (900 Marks)

  The SSB (Services Selection Board) is a multi-day evaluation of psychological and leadership traits. It has two stages:

  • Stage I — OIR & PP&DT: Officer Intelligence Rating Test (OIR) and Picture Perception & Description Test (PP&DT). Shortlists candidates for Stage II.
  • Stage II — Main SSB Tasks: Psychological tests, Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks, personal interview. Includes outdoor leadership tasks, team-building exercises, planning exercises, and personal questions.
  • Preparation Tip: Develop confidence, communication skills, teamwork, and physical stamina. Practice mock interviews and group discussions.

  Stage 2 is crucial — a candidate’s personality, confidence, leadership, and decision-making are evaluated in depth.

• Stage 3: Medical Examination
  • Conducted at Armed Forces Medical Services hospitals. Strict standards for height, weight, vision, and dental fitness.
  • Tip: Check vision standards and maintain fitness before appearing. Any medical disqualification cannot be rectified later.
• Final Merit List: Based on written marks + SSB marks. Medical fitness is mandatory to be eligible for final selection.

Physical & Medical Standards (Key Points)

Height, weight, vision, and overall physical fitness are strictly enforced. Minimum standards:

• Male — 157 cm; Female — 152 cm (Flying branch 162.5 cm)
• Vision — 6/6 for distant vision; certain refractive errors allowed; no major color blindness.
• General health — free from chronic diseases, heart, kidney or mental disorders.

Tip: Start fitness routines early, get vision and dental checks, and maintain overall health.

Stipend & Salary Overview👉UPSC NDA NA I 2026

During NDA training, candidates receive a stipend starting at Level 10 — Rs. 56,100/-. After commissioning, pay scales include MSP, DA, transport allowance, and insurance. Additional benefits: free accommodation, medical cover, and opportunities for higher studies.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with service benefits and allowances as they motivate and help plan your career goals.