Introduction
The NDA-I 2026 Exam is a two-stage selection process for candidates aspiring to join the National Defence Academy. Clearing the written exam is only the first step; the real challenge lies in performing well at the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview.
Many aspirants focus only on the written test but forget that SSB carries 900 marks, which is as important as the 900 marks of the written exam. To secure final selection, aspirants must prepare for both stages simultaneously.
This article explains the difference between the NDA written exam and the SSB interview, gives preparation strategies, and shows how Victor Growth Coaching helps aspirants succeed.
NDA-I 2026 Written Exam Overview
The written exam tests academic knowledge, reasoning ability, and current affairs awareness.
Exam Pattern
Mathematics: 120 questions | 300 marks | 2.5 hours
General Ability Test (GAT): 150 questions | 600 marks | 2.5 hours
English (200 marks)
General Knowledge (400 marks)
👉 Total Written Marks = 900
How to Prepare for NDA Written Exam
Mathematics
Focus on Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Probability, and Geometry.
Solve NCERT (Class 11 & 12) + NDA Pathfinder.
Practice 30–40 sums daily with a formula notebook.
English
Improve vocabulary with Word Power Made Easy.
Revise grammar rules from Wren & Martin.
Practice comprehension passages and error detection.
General Knowledge
Physics, Chemistry, Biology → Revise NCERT basics.
History & Geography → Focus on Indian Freedom Struggle and map-based learning.
Current Affairs → Read The Hindu and Pratiyogita Darpan.
Mock Tests
Attempt at least 15–20 full-length mock tests before exam day.
SSB Interview Overview
The SSB Interview is a 5-day selection process testing personality, leadership, and psychological strength.
Stages of SSB Interview
Day 1 – Screening Test
OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating).
PPDT (Picture Perception & Description Test).
Day 2 – Psychological Tests
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT).
Word Association Test (WAT).
Situation Reaction Test (SRT).
Self-Description Test.
Day 3 & 4 – GTO Tasks
Group Discussions.
Group Planning Exercises.
Progressive Group Tasks.
Obstacle Race.
Individual Lectures.
Day 5 – Personal Interview & Conference
Questions on academics, current affairs, hobbies, personal life.
Board’s final recommendation.
👉 SSB Marks = 900
How to Prepare for NDA SSB Interview
Improve Communication Skills
Read newspapers daily.
Practice speaking in English confidently.
Work on Leadership Qualities
Take initiative in group tasks.
Be cooperative, not dominating.
Practice Psychological Tests
Write fast and honestly in WAT, SRT, and TAT.
Avoid memorized responses; be natural.
Stay Physically Fit
Running, pushups, and stamina-building exercises.
Prepare for obstacle tasks.
Mock SSB Sessions
Attend practice interviews and group tasks with coaching guidance.
NDA Written Exam vs SSB Interview – Key Differences
| Aspect | Written Exam | SSB Interview |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Academic knowledge & reasoning | Personality, leadership, mental & physical ability |
| Marks | 900 | 900 |
| Duration | 1-day exam (5 hours total) | 5-day process |
| Preparation | Subject knowledge, problem-solving | Confidence, communication, decision-making |
| Nature | Objective MCQ test | Personality & psychological tests |
👉 To succeed, aspirants must prepare for both stages together, not separately.
Why Choose Victor Growth Coaching for NDA Preparation?
At Victor Growth Coaching, we prepare aspirants for both the written exam and SSB:
Written Exam Coaching
Expert faculty for Maths, English, and GK.
Comprehensive notes and test series.
Weekly mock tests.
SSB Interview Training
Personality development sessions.
Group discussion and GTO task practice.
Mock interviews with feedback.
Psychology test guidance.
Complete NDA Program
Integrated written + SSB training.
Affordable Fee Structure.
Proven track record of results.
👉 With Victor Growth, aspirants get end-to-end guidance from written exam success to final SSB recommendation.
SEO Keywords
NDA-I 2026 written exam vs SSB interview
NDA 2026 preparation tips written + SSB
NDA exam and interview strategy 2026
Victor Growth NDA coaching Kerala
NDA written and SSB training institute
FAQs on NDA Written Exam vs SSB Interview
Q1. Which is tougher – NDA written exam or SSB interview?
Both are equally important. The written exam tests academics, while the SSB tests personality.
Q2. Can I prepare for SSB after clearing the written exam?
You can, but preparing in advance gives you a clear edge.
Q3. What is the passing mark for NDA written exam?
Around 120+ in Maths and a total of 350+ marks overall is generally safe.
Q4. What qualities are tested in SSB?
Leadership, teamwork, confidence, honesty, and decision-making.
Q5. How should I balance written exam and SSB preparation?
Dedicate weekdays to academics and weekends to personality/fitness training.
Q6. Does Victor Growth provide integrated NDA coaching?
Yes. Victor Growth offers both written exam coaching and SSB interview training under one program.
Q7. Can a candidate clear NDA without coaching?
Self-study is possible, but coaching ensures better guidance, practice, and confidence.
