NDA FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs on NDA Exam Preparation
These FAQs cover the essentials of NDA exam preparation, and each answer provides candidates with actionable steps to enhance their readiness.
The NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is a national-level exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. It is for candidates seeking entry into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Nationality: Indian citizen or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal.
- Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
- Education: For the Army wing, candidates must have completed 10+2 in any stream. For the Air Force and Navy, candidates need 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
- Physical Standards: Candidates must meet specific physical and medical standards.
The NDA exam consists of two sections:
- Mathematics: Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Statistics, Probability, and Calculus.
- General Ability Test (GAT): Divided into English and General Knowledge, covering Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events.
- Begin by understanding the syllabus and exam pattern.
- Focus on strengthening basics in Mathematics, and read NCERT books.
- For GAT, focus on English, General Knowledge, and Current Affairs. Newspapers and NCERT books are highly recommended.
- Practice time management, as both speed and accuracy are crucial.
- Mathematics: 300 marks, 120 questions (2.5 marks per question).
- GAT: 600 marks, 150 questions (English - 200 marks, General Knowledge - 400 marks).
- Both sections are conducted in a multiple-choice format and have a negative marking for incorrect answers.
- Devote at least 4–6 hours daily to NDA preparation.
- Divide time between Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge, with extra focus on your weaker areas.
- Allocate specific hours for revision and mock tests weekly.
Physical fitness is essential for clearing the SSB interview stage after the written exam. Daily exercise, including running, push-ups, and basic strength training, will help build stamina and physical endurance.
- Regular reading (newspapers, magazines, and English books), vocabulary building, and grammar practice are essential.
- Focus on comprehension, spotting errors, and improving your writing skills for better performance in the English section.
- Mathematics: NCERT Mathematics textbooks (Class 11 & 12), RS Aggarwal, RD Sharma.
- General Ability Test (GAT): NCERT Science, History, Geography, and Civics books (Class 6–12), Lucent's General Knowledge, and daily newspapers for Current Affairs.
- Mock Tests & Previous Papers: UPSC NDA/NA question papers from past years are crucial for practice.
- Read newspapers like The Hindu or The Indian Express daily.
- Use monthly current affairs magazines or apps to keep up with recent events.
- Focus on national and international news, sports, science & technology, and important personalities.
- After clearing the written exam, candidates are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, a five-day process assessing personality, intelligence, and leadership skills.
- Preparation should include physical training, improving communication skills, and practicing for psychological and group tasks.
- Practice common SSB interview questions, current affairs topics, and participate in group discussions.
- Prioritize your time by setting a daily schedule balancing school studies with NDA topics.
- Use weekends or holidays for intensive NDA preparation and mock tests.
- Focus on subjects that overlap, like Mathematics and Science, for better efficiency.
Coaching can be beneficial but is not mandatory. With discipline, self-study, and access to the right resources, candidates can successfully prepare on their own. However, coaching can provide structure, guidance, and mock interview preparation.
- Practice time-bound mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- For Mathematics, aim to solve questions quickly by practicing shortcuts.
- For GAT, read questions carefully, and avoid spending too much time on any single question.
- Set clear goals and break your preparation into smaller, manageable tasks.
- Take regular breaks, maintain physical activity, and connect with others preparing for the exam.
- Remember why you started and focus on the benefits of joining the NDA.
