The NDA 2026 syllabus is officially prescribed by UPSC for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force through the National Defence Academy (NDA) & Naval Academy (NA) Examination. A clear understanding of the topic-wise NDA Maths and GAT syllabus is essential for smart preparation, time management, and scoring high marks.
This article provides a complete, detailed, and SEO-optimised breakdown of the NDA 2026 syllabus, covering Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT), followed by important preparation insights and FAQs.
NDA 2026 Exam Structure (Quick Overview)
| Paper | Subject | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Mathematics | 2.5 Hours | 300 |
| Paper II | General Ability Test (GAT) | 2.5 Hours | 600 |
| Total | — | 5 Hours | 900 Marks |
NDA 2026 Mathematics Syllabus – Topic-Wise Breakdown
The Mathematics paper tests numerical ability, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Questions are based on Class 11 & 12 CBSE level.
1. Algebra
Sets, Relations & Functions
Real Numbers
Complex Numbers
Quadratic Equations
Linear Inequalities
Permutations & Combinations
Binomial Theorem
Sequences & Series
Logarithms
2. Matrices & Determinants
Types of Matrices
Matrix Operations
Determinant of a Matrix
Inverse of a Matrix
Solution of Linear Equations using Matrices
3. Trigonometry
Trigonometric Ratios & Identities
Trigonometric Equations
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
Heights & Distances
4. Analytical Geometry
Straight Lines
Pair of Straight Lines
Circles
Parabola, Ellipse & Hyperbola
Rectangular Coordinates
Distance Formula
5. Differential Calculus
Concept of Limits & Continuity
Derivatives
Application of Derivatives
Rate of Change
Increasing & Decreasing Functions
6. Integral Calculus
Indefinite Integrals
Definite Integrals
Application of Integrals
Area Under Curves
7. Vector Algebra
Vectors and Scalars
Vector Addition
Dot Product
Cross Product
Applications of Vectors
8. Statistics & Probability
Mean, Median & Mode
Variance & Standard Deviation
Probability Concepts
Conditional Probability
NDA Mathematics – Key Points
Total Questions: 120
Maximum Marks: 300
Negative Marking: –0.83 per wrong answer
NDA 2026 GAT Syllabus – Detailed Breakdown
The General Ability Test (GAT) checks a candidate’s language skills, scientific knowledge, social awareness, and current affairs.
Part A: English (200 Marks)
English Syllabus
Grammar & Usage
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Sentence Improvement
Error Spotting
Idioms & Phrases
Comprehension Passages
Cloze Test
👉 Focus on reading practice and grammar rules.
Part B: General Knowledge (400 Marks)
1. Physics
Physical Properties & States of Matter
Motion, Laws of Motion
Work, Energy & Power
Heat & Thermodynamics
Light & Sound
Electricity & Magnetism
2. Chemistry
Physical & Chemical Changes
Elements, Compounds & Mixtures
Acids, Bases & Salts
Metals & Non-Metals
Fuels & Combustion
Fertilizers & Pesticides
3. General Science
Human Body & Nutrition
Diseases & Prevention
Plants & Animals
Environment & Ecology
4. History
Ancient Indian History
Medieval Indian History
Modern Indian History
Freedom Struggle
Important Movements & Leaders
5. Geography
Earth & Solar System
Physical Geography
Climate & Weather
Rivers, Mountains & Oceans
Indian Geography
Natural Resources
6. Civics (Polity)
Indian Constitution
Fundamental Rights & Duties
Union & State Government
Panchayati Raj
Judiciary
7. Current Affairs
National & International Events
Defence-related News
Sports
Awards & Honors
Important Appointments
NDA GAT – Key Points
Total Questions: 150
Maximum Marks: 600
Negative Marking: –1.33 per wrong answer
NDA 2026 Syllabus – Preparation Strategy (Quick Tips)
Cover Maths daily to build speed & accuracy
Focus more on GAT (60% weightage)
Revise NCERT Class 9–12 books thoroughly
Practice previous year NDA questions
Read newspapers for current affairs & English
Why NDA 2026 Syllabus Understanding is Crucial
Helps in targeted preparation
Prevents wasting time on irrelevant topics
Improves exam confidence
Enhances score & selection chances
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is NDA 2026 syllabus based on NCERT?
Yes, the NDA syllabus is primarily based on NCERT Class 11 & 12 standards.
Q2. Which subject has more weightage in NDA exam?
The GAT paper carries 600 marks, making it more important than Mathematics.
Q3. Is Maths compulsory to qualify NDA?
Yes, candidates must clear Mathematics paper separately.
Q4. Are questions repeated from previous NDA exams?
Concepts are often repeated, but questions are rarely the same.
Q5. How much current affairs is required for NDA 2026?
At least 6–8 months of current affairs preparation is recommended.
Q6. Is the NDA syllabus same for Army, Navy & Air Force?
Yes, the written exam syllabus is the same for all wings.
Conclusion
The NDA 2026 syllabus (Maths & GAT) forms the backbone of your preparation. A topic-wise approach, combined with consistent revision and practice, is the key to cracking the NDA written exam and moving one step closer to becoming an officer in the Indian Armed Forces 🇮🇳.





