Overview: NDA Medical Examination 2026
The National Defence Academy (NDA) medical test is a crucial stage after clearing the written exam and SSB interview. Only medically fit candidates are eligible to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The medical examination ensures that candidates are physically and mentally capable of handling the demanding life in the armed forces.
Key Highlights of NDA Medical Requirements
- Conducted by Military Medical Board
- Applicable for Army, Navy & Air Force
- Includes:
- Physical Standards
- Vision & Eye Test
- ENT Examination
- Dental Check
- Internal Organ Evaluation
- Temporary unfit candidates can apply for Review Medical Board (RMB)
1. Height & Weight Standards (NDA II 2026)
Minimum Height Requirements
- Army: 157 cm
- Navy: 157 cm
- Air Force: 162.5 cm
(Relaxation for candidates from hilly regions & North-East states)
Weight Standards
- Weight should be proportional to height and age
- Underweight and overweight candidates may be rejected
2. Vision Standards for NDA
For Army & Navy
- 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other
- Correctable to 6/6
For Air Force (Strict Standards)
- 6/6 in both eyes
- No color blindness
- CP-II color vision required
Disqualifications
- Myopia > -2.5 D
- Hypermetropia > +3.5 D
- Night blindness
- Squint
3. Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Standards
Candidates must have:
- Clear speech and hearing ability
- No chronic ear infections
- No nasal blockage or sinus issues
- No throat diseases
Common Reasons for Rejection:
- Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)
- Chronic sinusitis
- Hearing loss
4. Dental Standards
- Minimum 14 dental points required
- Healthy gums and teeth
- No severe cavities or infections
5. General Physical Fitness
Candidates must be free from:
- Bone deformities
- Joint issues
- Hernia
- Piles (severe cases)
- Skin diseases
Special Conditions Checked
- Flat Foot (Not allowed)
- Knock Knees (Not allowed)
- Spine deformities (Scoliosis, Kyphosis)
6. Internal Organ Examination
Doctors check:
- Heart (ECG if required)
- Lungs (Chest X-ray)
- Abdomen (Liver, spleen)
- Blood pressure
7. Blood & Urine Tests
Includes:
- Blood sugar levels
- Hemoglobin
- Infection screening
- Kidney function
8. Tattoos Policy for NDA
Allowed Areas
- Inner forearm
- Back of palm
Not Allowed
- Neck, face, or visible body parts
9. Medical Standards for Female Candidates
Female candidates must meet:
- Same general standards as males
- No gynecological issues
- Fit reproductive health
10. Temporary vs Permanent Rejection
Temporary Unfit (TR)
- Minor issues like:
- Underweight
- Minor infections
- Can apply for Review Medical Board
Permanent Rejection (PR)
- Serious conditions like:
- Color blindness
- Flat foot
- Chronic diseases
11. NDA Medical Test Procedure (Step-by-Step)
- Reporting at Military Hospital
- Document Verification
- Physical Measurement
- Eye & ENT Examination
- Blood & Urine Tests
- X-ray & ECG
- Final Medical Board Decision
12. Tips to Clear NDA Medical Test
- Maintain ideal body weight
- Exercise daily (running, push-ups)
- Avoid junk food
- Get eyes tested early
- Fix minor dental issues
- Sleep properly
Common Reasons for NDA Medical Rejection
- Flat Foot / Knock Knees
- Poor eyesight
- Overweight / Underweight
- Dental issues
- Chronic diseases
- Tattoos in restricted areas
FAQs: NDA II 2026 Medical Test
1. Is LASIK surgery allowed for NDA?
No, LASIK is not allowed for NDA candidates.
2. Can I join NDA with spectacles?
Yes, for Army & Navy (within limits), but not for Air Force in most cases.
3. What is the minimum height for NDA?
Minimum is 157 cm, but Air Force requires 162.5 cm.
4. Is color blindness allowed in NDA?
No, especially for Air Force and Navy.
5. What happens if I fail the medical test?
You may be declared:
- Temporary Unfit → Apply for Review Medical
- Permanent Unfit → Not eligible
6. Are tattoos allowed in NDA?
Only in specific areas like inner forearm.
7. Can underweight candidates qualify?
No, but they may get temporary rejection and time to improve.
8. How long does NDA medical take?
Usually 3–5 days.
Conclusion
The NDA II 2026 medical examination is designed to select candidates who are physically and mentally fit for a career in the armed forces. Proper preparation, early medical checkups, and a disciplined lifestyle can significantly increase your chances of clearing the medical stage.
